Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune neurological condition that affects approximately 3 million people worldwide and 1 million Americans. The disease commonly is diagnosed between the ages of 20-45 and affects more women than men by a ratio of 3-4 to 1. It presents with different symptoms in all patients, however, there are several signs that occur more frequently such as optic neuritis, brainstem syndrome, and transverse myelitis.
There are four types of multiple sclerosis: relapsing-remitting MS, secondary-progressive MS, primary-progressive MS, and progressive-relapsing MS. The main difference between the four types is the presence or absence of acute relapses.
Relapsing-remitting MS is the most common type. It is identified by periods of remission where symptoms minimize or disappear followed by episodes of relapse where the patient may experience recurring and new symptoms.
Secondary-progressive MS occurs after the relapsing-remitting stage for many. This type of MS is characterized by a steady decline instead of the frequent ups-and-downs of relapse and remission.
Primary-progressive MS is a less common type of MS that involves a steady decline with little to no occurrences of remission. The rate of decline varies from person to person.
Progressive-relapsing MS involves a sudden, rapid decline in addition to the steady decline seen with primary-progressive MS. Patients with this type of MS will not experience periods of remission.
Our center specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ORMS. ORMS are complex neurological white matter and neuroimmune disorders that mimic MS such as Behçet's syndrome, familial multiple sclerosis, neurosarcoidosis, and Susac syndrome.
The UConn MS Center is a specialty center that cares for patients with all types of neuroinflammatory diseases. In addition to MS, we provide expert care for patients with tumefactive MS and neuroimmunology complications of rheumatology and cancer immunotherapies.
Tumefactive MS has similar symptoms of a brain tumor but is caused by a tumor-like lesion on the brain. This condition is often misdiagnosed, and the lack of clarity can be distressing for many families. We have experts in neuroimmunology, neuro-oncology, and neurosurgery that work together to make the right diagnosis before a brain tumor diagnosis is given. Sometimes patients may need a brain biopsy because the clinical and MRI data may not be sufficient. Our approach aims to minimize the distress in patients and their families.
Rheumatological disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's can affect the nervous system and wreak havoc on the body. In collaboration with UConn Health rheumatology, we can develop a personalized plan of care. New cancer therapies are extending the life of these individuals, however these patients may experience unexpected complications with increased activation of the immune system that can lead to brain lesions. In collaboration with neuro-oncology, we assess the need for immunological treatment.
Multiple Sclerosis Center