Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to turn inward and mistakenly attack the protective sheath, known as the myelin sheath, that encases nerve fibers. It primarily affects the brain, spinal cord, and eye nerves of the central nervous system. Myelin plays a crucial role in facilitating the efficient transmissions of electrical signals between the brain and the rest of the body. As a result, the communication network within the central nervous system becomes disrupted, leading to symptoms that vary widely among patients.

Multiple sclerosis can appear at any age but is most frequently diagnosed in individuals between 20 and 40 years old. Women are more commonly affected than men. 

The Penn Multiple Sclerosis Center

Four distinct types of MS are based largely on when and how the disease presents:  

• Relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) is the most common form of MS characterized by flare-ups (relapses) of new or worsening symptoms followed by periods of remission.  
• Secondary progressive MS (SPMS) follows RRMS with a worsening of neurologic function over time. SPMS can be active or inactive, with or without progression.  
• Primary progressive MS (PPMS) is a type of MS in which symptoms gradually worsen without relapses or remissions. PPMS can be active or inactive, with or without progression.  
• Progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS) is described as steadily worsening neurologic function with occasional relapses. 

The exact cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown. The suspected causes of MS include:  

• Autoimmune factors 
• Environmental influences 
• Genetic factors 

Researchers at Penn Medicine are focused on unraveling the mysteries surrounding MS, from its underlying causes to its triggers and related disorders. Our research programs integrate both adult and pediatric clinicians and researchers, providing a unique opportunity to tackle questions about MS and MS therapies across the age span. Our pioneering neurologists are well-versed in the latest research and actively contribute to it, reshaping the landscape of MS diagnosis and care. 

There is no specific test designed to diagnose MS but there are several diagnostic tools your doctor may use to confirm your diagnosis, including:  

• A thorough medical history and neurological exam  
• Blood tests  
• Cerebrospinal fluid analysis (spinal tap)  
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans  

Your Penn Medicine care team will work with you to ensure timely and accurate diagnosis, to initiate appropriate treatments early, and manage the progression of MS effectively. 

Recognized by the National MS Society as a National MS Comprehensive Care Center, Penn Medicine ensures leading-edge treatment options, ongoing research to advance the understanding of MS and related disorders, and patient support programs and resources that are important to MS management.

As a leading academic medical center, Penn Medicine’s Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology specialty pioneers neuroinflammatory disorder research, offering a comprehensive approach to managing multiple sclerosis (MS). We provide access to a wide range of treatment options, a dedicated MS pharmacist, and an onsite infusion clinic for intravenous treatments.