Categories of Multiple Sclerosis And What It May Mean For the Patient
In trying to understand the disease known as multiple sclerosis it is helpful to know that there are different categories or types that can manifest this condition and follow a varied course over the length of this illness. These categories help to define overall patterns but it must be acknowledged that each individual is unique and the course of their illness may not be typified with this list.
Relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis is the most common type experienced by those afflicted. It follows a course wherein the individual will have an attack or a series of attacks but then it is followed by a partial or complete remission. While it may occur that someone in the early stages of MS may experience a complete recovery - more often than not the remission is partial and the patient will continue to experience some lingering symptoms.
Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis is a type that begins with the relapsing remitting pattern. This may remain so for a number of years before it worsens into a condition where the disease becomes chronic and progressive. In this category the patient does not really experience much in the way of remissions - only periods where the attacks may be less severe. Though they may be able to achieve some relief from certain symptoms the overall situation is that they remain manifested.
Progressive relapsing multiple sclerosis is a category that only occurs in a small percentage of cases. It presents in a progressive manner right from the start. The attacks are acute in nature and unremitting. Unfortunately, for this type of MS there is not much in the way of relief from the usual signs and symptoms.
Primary progressive multiple sclerosis is a type that can occur equally in men and women although MS is a disease that seems to occur almost three times more often with women. The course this category takes is unique in that, though it proceeds without any remissions, the decline is usually gradual. And at times it may appear to plateau wherein the symptoms may not appear to worsen for a length of time. Unfortunately, it will eventually continue to worsen.
Benign multiple sclerosis is another less common category. It refers to a condition where an individual may have an initial attack but not experience any further episodes to speak of. And while there may be no evidence of dehabilitation it can result in the patient experiencing some slight problems with cognitive ability and with short term memory issues.
Malignant multiple sclerosis is a rare aggressive form of this disease. The prognosis here is very bad - after the initial attack the disease progresses very rapidly with probable severe disability and a possibility of death. This can occur withing an extremely short period of a few months.
The above descriptions offer an insight into how a person with multiple sclerosis may be affected over the course of time. As it is with many diseases, researchers have also found similar conditions that mirror many of the same symptoms as MS. Because of this it may be necessary for the patient to be observed over a length of time in order to determine their specific pattern of attacks and remissions. It is comforting to know that there are many organizations in place that can offer comfort and support in dealing with so many unknowns.
