[HLA and multiple sclerosis]

Abstract

Etiology of and pathogenetic mechanisms in multiple sclerosis are still badly known; therapy is thus uncertain and poorly active. Many recent studies have nevertheless shown a weak but clear association with HLA-DR2, as the possible role of a HTLV-related virus. Infection of genetically sensitive (DR2 positive) children would induce an auto-immune disease with a cellular and humoral reactivity against myelin antigens. A rather active and certainly harmless treatment consists in administration of immunoglobulins.