Multiple sclerosis

Autoimmune disease in which the body's own defences destroy the myelin sheath that covers the neurons of the central nervous system that includes the brain and the spinal cord. It is three times more common in women and it usually begins between the ages of 20 and 40.

The exact triggering cause is not known but is attributed to genetic and environmental factors. To genetic factors because it has a higher incidence in the Caucasian race, and to environmental factors because there are known agents that seem to accelerate its onset, such as Epstein Barr virus infection, which when activated would trigger a secondary immune response.

It manifests with neurological symptoms, although there are no symptoms unique to multiple sclerosis. The most common symptoms include impaired sensation, visual loss, gait disturbance, double vision and impaired balance. It generally presents in the form of outbreaks that can last from days to months, with the intensity of the symptoms varying according to the period.

Diagnosis is clinical, based on questioning and physical examination. It is confirmed by MRI to establish the area of involvement.

So far there is no known cure, but there are treatments that can delay its progression and help control symptoms to maintain a normal quality of life.