Dictionary of Biological Psychology
A neurodegenerative disorder involving loss of MYELIN from axons (see AXON). The loss is often patchy, with DEMYELINATION occurring at small points in different parts of the nervous system. A GLIAL SCAR marks the site of each demyelinating LESION.
It is the most common form of neurological disorder in individuals under 50 years of age (the age of onset is typically around 30 years) having a prevalence of approximately 1 in 2000 (and being rather more common in women than men). The precise form of the disease obviously reflects the sites of greatest pathology. Multiple sclerosis typically presents as a muscular disorder, with weakness in the limbs, though visual disturbances are also very common. Cognitive deficits have also been reported, intellectual function being impaired in anything from 30–70% of patients.
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