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-CNS=Central Nervous System -Multiple sclerosis (abbreviated MS, also known as disseminated sclerosis or encephalomyelitis disseminata) is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the central nervous system, leading to demyelination. Disease onset usually occurs in young adults, and it is more common in women. It has a prevalence that ranges between 2 and 150 per 100000. MS was first described in 1868 by Jean-Martin Charcot. MS affects the areas of the brain and spinal cord known as the white matter, destroying a fatty layer called the myelin sheath, which wraps around nerve fibers and electrically insulates them. When myelin is lost, the axons of neurons can no longer effectively conduct action potentials. The name multiple sclerosis refers to the scars (scleroses better known as plaques or lesions) in the white matter. Although much is known about the mechanisms involved in the disease process, the cause remains unknown. Theories include genetics or infections. Different environmental risk factors have also been found. Almost any neurological symptom can appear with the disease, and often progresses to physical and cognitive disability. MS takes several forms, with new symptoms occurring either in discrete attacks (relapsing forms) or slowly accumulating over time (progressive forms). Between attacks, symptoms may go away completely, but permanent neurological problems often occur, especially as the disease advances. There is no known cure for MS …

On Wednesday April 7, 2010, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada hosted an information session discussing the link between chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Questions asked in this segment: Laurie via the internet – How will you respond to pressure from the pharmaceutical industry who may not want current drug treatments to be replaced with CCSVI therapy due to the financial impact they are bound to feel? They carry a lot of weight and can slow down or even stall progress that negatively impacts them financially. Dawn from Alberta via pre-submitted question – Does the MS Society support having the testing (MRI and Ultrasound) by the Provincial Health Care Systems?

Introduction by Dr Alice Roberts. Medical Research Council. CREDITS: GSK Clinical Imaging Centre, Hammersmith, London. University of Nottingham. Nobel footage courtesy of the BBC.

Update from Tricia September 17, 2008: Thank you all for your kind and encouraging words! When I hear how my story has touched people around the world, I can’t believe it! When the National MS Society put together and posted the video, I was shocked at the response. Now, three years later, people are still watching it, forwarding it and commenting on it – wow! My son Jake will be 15 this year, he still loves playing baseball and is a freshman in High School. He helps raise money and awareness for our annual Walk MS event, and this year he’s riding in the Bike MS Tour, all to help create a world free of multiple sclerosis. He is my inspiration and I thank God for him every day! I have good and bad days, but am blessed with family, friends and doctors who support me. I will continue to fight for a cure with my continued dedication through volunteerism and fundraising. I know I speak for many when I say I want to live in a world free of MS. With Hope and Love, Tricia Chandler

MS Learn Online is the National MS Society’s online educational webcast series. This video features country music star Clay Walker, who discusses his diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.

LDN & MRI Update