#007: The types of MS - from prodromal phase to progressive course

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one disease but it is defined in different types depending on the prominent aspect at the moment of treatement. You can read the full article on my blog: https://ms-perspektive.com/007-types-of-ms

This time I would like to introduce you to the different types of MS. But be aware, leading MS experts worldwide are increasingly breaking away from these terminologies, as in the end it is one and the same disease, although with different manifestations. Settling on one of the terminologies listed here can lead to difficulties in treatment options, as most countries have guidelines on which immunotherapy to use for which course. Therefore, although the classifications provide direction, they may be used less and less in the future.

Classically, there are five forms or precursors of multiple sclerosis (MS): RIS and CIS count to the prodromal stage. RRMS, SPMS and PPMS are variations of multiple sclerosis. As the criteria for a definitive diagnosis of MS have changed and been refined over the past several decades, it is now possible to treat individuals who previously fell into one of the preliminary stages. This helps to improve the long-term prognosis. Currently, the 2017 McDonald criteria are in place, but certainly there will be further adjustments in the near future.

Table of Contents

• Radiologically Isolated Syndrome (RIS)
• Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)
• Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS)
• Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS)
• Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS)
• Summary

Summary

Currently, the best chances in fighting MS are the disease modifying drugs also known as immunotherapy, combined with a healthy lifestyle. Patients diagnosed with RRMS or RSPMS (the name given to the transition to SPMS), as well as certain cases of CIS, have a wide range of immunotherapies to choose from. For the progressive courses we need higher effective therapies, but there is for sure lots of efforts going in that direction. So I am positive that we will soon see results from that. Meanwhile it is absolutly key to stay as active as possible to keep the symptoms small or fight them back and sports as well as cognitive training or even both trainings combined show very promising results.

I will talk more on that with my interview guests in upcoming episodes.

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See you soon and try to make the best out of your life,
Nele

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