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Seasonal patterns in optic neuritis and multiple sclerosis: a meta-analysis
Y Jin1, J de Pedro-Cuesta, M Söderström
1Neuroepidemiology Unit, Karolinska Institute, Huddinge University Hospital, S-141 86, Huddinge, Sweden. Ya-Ping.Jin@neurotec.ki.se
Journal of the Neurological Sciences
|December 2, 2000
Summary
Seasonal patterns in neurological conditions are evident, with highest frequencies of optic neuritis and multiple sclerosis onsets and exacerbations occurring in spring and lowest in winter.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Seasonal variations in neurological disease onsets and exacerbations are increasingly recognized.
- Understanding these patterns is crucial for disease management and research.
- Monosymptomatic optic neuritis (MON), multiple sclerosis (MS) onsets, and MS exacerbations (MSE) are key areas of interest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and characterize seasonal variations in the onsets of MON, MS, and MSE.
- To identify specific temporal patterns and their statistical significance.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis was conducted, pooling data from multiple high-quality studies.
- Nine reports on MON, six on MS onsets, and nine on MSE were included.
- Established methods were used to ensure data homogeneity and robust analysis.
Main Results:
- A consistent seasonal pattern was observed across the Northern Hemisphere for MON, MS onsets, and MSE.
- Highest frequencies were noted in spring, with the lowest frequencies in winter.
- MS onsets showed the most significant seasonal variation (45%), while MSE showed the least (10%).
Conclusions:
- Significant seasonal variations exist for MON, MS onsets, and MSE.
- These patterns suggest potential environmental or biological triggers influencing disease activity.
- The findings are robust and unlikely to be due to random variation or bias.