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Multiple sclerosis and ionizing radiation
O Axelson1, A M Landtblom, U Flodin
1Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Health and Environment, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden. olav.axelson@ymk.liu.se
Abstract:
The etiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) may involve exposure to infectious, chemical or physical agents damaging the blood-brain barrier and an autoimmune reaction against myelin breakdown products. Here we report a pooled analysis of 174 MS cases and 815 population controls from two case-control studies with regard to such a potentially damaging exposure, namely X-ray examinations, radiological work and treatment with ionizing radiation. Exposure was assessed by questionnaires to the subjects. We obtained odds ratios of 4.4 (95% confidence interval, CI, 1.6-11.6) and 1.8 (95% CI 1.2-2.6) for radiological work and X-ray examinations, respectively; 5 cases, but no controls, in one of the studies had been treated with ionizing radiation. Our data and some other observations reported in the literature suggest a contributory role for ionizing radiation to the development of MS in some cases.
Insights
Ionizing radiation exposure, including X-rays and radiological work, may contribute to developing multiple sclerosis (MS). This study found increased odds of MS with such exposures, suggesting a potential link.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Environmental Health
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) etiology is complex, potentially involving environmental triggers that damage the blood-brain barrier and initiate autoimmune responses.
- Investigating environmental exposures like radiation is crucial for understanding MS pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the association between exposure to ionizing radiation (X-ray examinations, radiological work, radiation treatment) and the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS).
Main Methods:
- A pooled analysis of 174 MS cases and 815 population controls from two case-control studies.
- Exposure to X-ray examinations, radiological work, and ionizing radiation treatment was assessed via questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Odds ratios (OR) for radiological work and X-ray examinations were 4.4 (95% CI, 1.6-11.6) and 1.8 (95% CI, 1.2-2.6), respectively.
- Five MS cases, but no controls, reported treatment with ionizing radiation in one study.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest ionizing radiation may be a contributory factor in the development of multiple sclerosis in some individuals.
- Further research into the role of environmental radiation exposure in MS etiology is warranted.