Multiple Sclerosis and the Spinal Cord

Many clinical manifestations of multiple sclerosis (MS) may be attributed to spinal cord disease. MS may have classic presentation or a more complex presentation. MS is mainly a relapsing remitting disease, but there is also an insidious form that is progressive, known as primary progressive MS (PPMS). PPMS may not be identified for extended periods of time and should be on the differential of chronic myelopathies. Early diagnosis of MS rests on awareness of a clinically isolated syndrome and the required magnetic resonance imaging criteria. Early diagnosis results in early institution of treatment and a superior response.