National Multiple Sclerosis Case Study

For a proper diagnosis of MS to be made a variety of exams must take place, some of which include MRI, spinal fluid analysis, and most importantly an adequate medical history of the patient. In 2010, a modified criterion was established to aid in the diagnosis process by the name of McDonald Criteria. The criteria must be done by a physician and is as follows, “find evidence of damage in at least two separate areas of the central nervous system (CNS) this includes the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves, find evidence that the damage occurred at least one month apart, and lastly rule out all other possible diagnoses” (National Multiple Sclerosis Society [APA], n.d.). It is absolutely crucial to diagnosis and treat MS as early as possible to prevent irreversible damage to the nervous system.

With more than twelve disease-modifying medications approved by the U.S. FDA the course of the disease has shown great refinement. These medications have proven to treat relapsing forms of MS such as exacerbations. Exacerbations are caused by the inflammation of the CNS, which occurs due to the damage of myelin, thereby impeding the dissemination of nerve impulses. A true exacerbation must last at least 24 hours and occur one month apart from the last episode. Exacerbations could either be classified as mild or severe. Severe exacerbations are usually treated with high-dose corticosteroids, which aid in reducing inflammation. Whereas in a rehabilitation program the primary focal point is on improving or maintaining the patients ability to perform effectively at any stage of the disease (National Multiple Sclerosis Society [APA],