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Increasing cord atrophy in early relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a 3 year study
W Rashid1, G R Davies, D T Chard
1MS NMR Research Unit, Department of Neuroinflammation, Institute of Neurology, University College London, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK.
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry
|December 20, 2005
Summary
Upper cervical cord atrophy (UCCA) develops early in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Serial measurements detect this spinal cord atrophy in early-stage RRMS patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroimaging
- Multiple Sclerosis Research
Background:
- Upper cervical cord atrophy (UCCA) is known in advanced multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Its early detection in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and relation to clinical course remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the early detection of UCCA in RRMS patients.
- To determine if early UCCA correlates with clinical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-seven RRMS patients (disease duration <3 years) and 20 controls were followed for 3 years.
- Yearly assessments included UCCA, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and MS Functional Composite Score (MSFC).
- Statistical models adjusted for intracranial volume.
Main Results:
- Significant UCCA decrease was observed in RRMS patients compared to controls (p=0.001).
- EDSS significantly increased (p=0.008), while MSFC showed no significant change.
- UCCA loss rate did not correlate with clinical changes or brain volume changes.
Conclusions:
- Serial UCCA measurement can detect spinal cord atrophy in clinically early RRMS.
- This finding highlights the potential of UCCA as an early biomarker in MS.
