The relapsing form of multiple sclerosis (MS) is called relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and is characterized by acute exacerbations. In contrast, progressive forms of MS are characterized by a slow deterioration and increasing neurological deficits. There are three forms of progressive MS. Approximately 15% of those with MS show a slow deterioration from the onset. In the second form, 10% have either primary-progressive MS (PPMS) and never experience acute disease attacks or
5% have what was termed progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS), and have occasional subsequent attacks. The third form, secondary-progressive MS (SPMS), is the major progressive subtype. These are people who begin to slowly worsen 5 to 15 years after the first relapse. Once relapsing patients enter a progressive phase, they either stop having relapses or continue to experience exacerbations while slowly worsening.
Show Enlarge by passing over or clickingimage info This image is Copyright © My-MS.org and falls under Image License D defined under the Image License section of the Disclaimer page.MS Progression and Disability - The natural course of MS can result in a condition known as brain shrinkage or atrophy which is further discussed in our section Muscular & Cerebral Atrophy. As in the picture below, this is a condition in which you actually lose brain tissue. Treatment may protect you against brain shrinkage. To figure out if disease is progressing, doctors use a scale called the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). The EDSS is a way of measuring physical disability. Two-thirds of those with MS will not progress past level 6 on the EDSS. The EDSS and the disability causing it is discussed in greater detail in the Disability section.
Enlarge by passing over or clickingimage info This image is Copyright © My-MS.org and falls under Image License D defined under the Image License section of the Disclaimer page.Advanced MS Complications MS is a progressive disease for which no cure has yet been found. Although there are treatments to manage the
disease course, they are only partially effective and slow down progression for most patients. This means that some people's MS will worsen in spite of everything they and their doctors may attempt.
To reduce the risk of any complications, it's important to schedule regular check-ups with the doctor that is treating your MS. Also, be sure to report any unusual fevers or changes in any symptoms - good or bad. What does primary progressive MS mean?Overview. PPMS is characterized by worsening neurologic function (accumulation of disability) from the onset of symptoms, without early relapses or remissions.
What to expect with primary progressive MS?The occurrence and severity of PPMS symptoms vary with each person. Symptoms can include: Pain (for example, headaches, pain in the legs and feet, back pain, and muscle spasms) Electric-shock sensations that run down the back and limbs when the neck is bent (Lhermitte sign)
What is progressive sclerosis?Progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) is a clinical form of MS characterized by gradual accrual of disability independent of relapses over time.
How is primary progressive MS diagnosed?The only definitive way to diagnose PPMS apart from other forms of multiple sclerosis is by observation. In order to confirm a diagnosis of PPMS, the patient must: Have a year of consistent progression of the condition, including worsening neurologic function.
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