1. Multiple Sclerosis By Birger Flønæs & Christoffer Brovold

2. Introduction Twice as common among females 7000-8000 diagnosed patients in Norway 250-350 new patients every year Makes Norway one of the countries in the world with highest relative number of MS patients.

3. Epidemiology

4. Overview

5. Pathophysiology Auto-immune disease BBB breakdown Mainly CNS is affected Destroys oligodendrocytes

6. Classification

7. Symptoms Numbness Visual disturbances Reduced motor function Paralysis of extremities Reduced fine motor skills Chronic fatigue

8. Consequences for the patient Spasms Pain - strain, nervous, sciatica Paralysis Depressions Cognitive impairment Loss of sensitivity, tingling, muscle weakness, difficulties in moving and coordination, problems in speech/swallowing, visual problems etc.

9. Etiology Combination of genetic, environmental Not considered hereditary, but genetic variations increase risk Decreased sunlight exposure --> vitamin D deficiency Stress Smoking

10. Treatment No curative treatment beta-interferons - 18-38% reduction in rate of MS relapses Synthetic myelin basic protein - 1/3 reduction Immuno-suppressive medicines - progressive MS Cannabis Botox

11. Sources Wikipedia www.ms.no