Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis

Abstract

This chapter will serve as a guide for the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Primary aims include a review of both the common and atypical clinical manifestations of MS, a detailed discussion of the alternative diagnoses which can mimic MS, as well as a review of the current established diagnostic criteria and a history of their development. It will also review the distinct disease courses and MS variants. The goal of the chapter is to facilitate the diagnostic process for clinicians so that they may expedite early diagnosis and treatment in an effort to alter disease outcomes and ultimately improve patients' quality of life.

Keywords: CSF; IgG index; International; MRI; McDonald, Poser; aging; cerebrospinal fluid; clinical manifestations; diagnostic criteria; differential diagnosis; evoked potentials; magnetic resonance imaging; oligoclonal bands.