Therapies

Studies completed before the availability of disease-modifying therapies show that without treatment, about 83 percent of those diagnosed with MS reach a level of disability that requires walking assistance within 30 years from disease onset and that 34 percent are confined to a bed or chair within 22 years from onset.

Advances in immunomodifying therapies that slow the disease process have improved those outcomes dramatically. "There is a lot of active research occurring in regards to MS and this translates to very up-to-date treatment protocols and cutting edge therapies," says Dr. Markopoulo.

However, early treatment is critical in delaying development of the disability. "The medications are the most effective when used early," notes Dr. Markopoulou. In fact, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Disease Management Consensus Recommendations state: Inititiation of therapy with an immunomodulator is advised as soon as possible following a definite diagnosis of MS with a relapsing course and may be considered for selected patients with a first attack who are at high risk for MS." The Society goes on to say that, "numerous studies (confirm) that axonal damage can coincide with destruction of the myelin sheath in the MS disease process, suggesting that even early relapses that appear benign may have permanent neurological consequences."