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MS is the most common cause of neurological disability in young adults and the risk of developing MS is in part genetically determined.

MS is more common in countries with temperate climates for reasons yet unknown, but geographic studies suggest that this may be due to environmental factors, genetic factors, or both.

Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system

Multiple sclerosis causes inflammation within the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system) which destroys myelin, the protective layer that covers the nerves. This can result in multiple areas of scar tissue (sclerosis) and leads to slower or blocked nerve impulses, resulting in the signs and symptoms of MS.

Symptoms of multiple sclerosis can vary greatly

Repeated episodes of inflammation (called flare-ups) can occur in any area of the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms of multiple sclerosis vary greatly and depend upon which areas of the central nervous system are affected, but may include changes in the senses, balance, muscle strength and thinking.

Diagnosing multiple sclerosis involves excluding other diseases

There is no specific diagnostic test for multiple sclerosis. Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis requires clinical evidence of lesions and the exclusion of inflammatory, structural, or hereditary conditions that might result in similar symptoms. The course of the disease varies from minor disability to wheelchair dependency within a few years after disease onset.

The most common neurological disability in young adults

Multiple sclerosis is the most common cause of neurological disability in young adults. Approximately 90% of affected individuals are diagnosed before the age of 60 and most of them are between 20 and 40 years of age. Less than 5% are diagnosed before puberty. The prevalence varies with geography, ethnicity and gender, and is highest in white populations living in temperate regions. In Europe and North America, the prevalence is 1 in 800 (1 in 1200 males and 1 in 600 females), with an annual incidence of 2 to 10 per 100,000 individuals.

Multiple sclerosis is more common in countries with temperate climates

MS is uncommon in Japan, China, and South America. It is practically unknown among the indigenous people of equatorial Africa, native Inuits in Alaska, and Lapps in Scandinavia. Based on a 2007 study of the UK population, 5.3 per 1,000 women and 2.3 per 1,000 men are expected to receive a diagnosis of MS during their lifetime.

Genetic factors contribute to the development of multiple sclerosis

The risk of developing MS is in part genetically determined. Eight genetic variants have been found to increase the risk of developing MS. They are located on chromosomes 1, 5, 6 (in the HLA-DRA region), 10, 11, 12 and 16.

deCODEme can calculate your genetic risk of multiple sclerosis

The deCODEme Complete Scan identifies the variants referred to above and uses them to provide customers of European descent with a personalized interpretation of their genetic risk for developing MS.

At present, the necessary scientific information to interpret the genetic risk for individuals of other ethnicities is not available. This information will be added as soon as it becomes available and we are assured of its quality.

Risk factors for multiple sclerosis

Researchers have not yet found the exact cause of multiple sclerosis, but they have identified the following factors that may increase the risk:

• Ethnicity. MS is more common in people of Northern European descent.
• Environmental factors. Viruses and bacteria have been suspected of contributing to the development of MS. Patients with MS typically have a higher number of immune cells than a healthy person, which suggests that an immune reaction to a viral or bacterial infection might play a role.
• Geographical factors. MS is more common in countries with temperate climates, including Europe, southern Canada, northern United States, and southeastern Australia and New Zealand. The reason for this is unknown, but geographic studies suggest that it may be due to environmental factors, genetic factors, or both.
• Genetics. Although the risk of developing MS in children whose parents are affected by MS is less than 5% over their lifetime, genetic research supports the hypothesis that the tendency to develop MS is inherited. Whether the disease develops however, depends on exposure to environmental triggers.

Prevention and treatment of multiple sclerosis

Currently, there is no known way to prevent or cure multiple sclerosis. Many patients do well with no therapy if the disease remains in remission after the initial attack.

Treatment options vary depending on the symptoms of multiple sclerosis

MS causes a large variety of symptoms. For that reason, many different treatments may be necessary to relieve those symptoms. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms, prevent progression of disability, and maintain a normal quality of life.

Medications used for treating MS have serious side effects and carry significant risks, but there are some promising medical therapies on the horizon that may slow the progression of the disease. Additionally, physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and support groups can help improve a person’s outlook, reduce depression, maximize function, and improve coping skills.

More information

You can find out more information about MS by talking with your doctor and visiting these Web sites:

• Healthfinder
• MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
• The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
• National Multiple Sclerosis Society
• The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America

This content was last reviewed on February 23, 2010.

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