[Early diagnosis of multiple sclerosis]

The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is primarily based on clinical criteria considering the dissemination of neurological symptoms in time and space. Laboratory tests (magnetic resonance imaging, examination of cerebrospinal fluid, and evoked potentials) are important to confirm the diagnosis and assess disease activity. With the improvement of these methods, MS could be diagnosed at a very early stage of the disease allowing for the prompt initiation of immunotherapies. An early diagnosis and prediction of the future course of MS are also important for adequate counselling of the predominantly young patients about their professional plans. However, in the early stages of MS, prediction of disability remains difficult even if the patient is definitely diagnosed to suffer from MS.