Episode 3- Exploring the Etiology of Multiple Sclerosis

In this segment, the panelists explain that although there is currently no answer to what causes multiple sclerosis (MS), what has been learned can help providers treat MS patients more proactively.

Patricia K. Coyle, MD, says that ideas about the etiology of MS are evolving with genetics, environmental factors, and the host immune system, and discusses the recognized components that may be responsible for MS.

Dr Coyle explains that although inflammation plays a role, there may be a different type of inflammation driving the neuro-degenerative, more disabling phase of MS, compared with the typical relapsing, macroscopic lesions in the white matter phase.

Leslie Fish, PharmD, agrees with Dr Coyle and further explains her feelings about the correlation between inflammation and acute attacks.