Although multiple sclerosis (MS) was first diagnosed
in 1849, the earliest known description of a person
with possible MS dates from fourteenth century
Holland. An unpredictable disease of the central
nervous system, MS can range from relatively benign
to somewhat disabling to devastating as
communication between the brain and other parts of
the body is disrupted.
The vast majority of patients are mildly affected,
but in the worst cases MS can render a person unable
to write, speak, or walk. A physician can diagnose
MS in some patients soon after the onset of the
illness. In others, however, physicians may not be
able to readily identify the cause of the symptoms,
leading to years of uncertainty and multiple
diagnoses punctuated by baffling symptoms that
mysteriously wax and wane.
Once a diagnosis is made with confidence,
patients must consider a profusion of information-and
misinformation-associated with this complex disease.
This brochure is designed to convey the latest
information on the diagnosis, course, and possible
treatment of MS, as well as highlights of current
research. Although a pamphlet cannot substitute for
the advice and expertise of a physician, it can
provide patients and their families with information
to understand MS better so that they can actively
participate in their care and treatment.
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