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Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Erythrocyte membrane fatty acids in patients with multiple sclerosis
G M Hon1, M S Hassan, S J van Rensburg
1Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Science, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, P O Box 1906, Bellville 7530, Cape Town, South Africa.
Background:
Reports on fatty acids levels in multiple sclerosis remain inconclusive.
Objective:
To determine the erythrocyte membrane fatty acid levels in multiple sclerosis patients and correlate with Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale.
Methods:
Fatty acid composition of 31 multiple sclerosis and 30 control individuals were measured by gas chromatography.
Results:
The membrane phosphatidylcholine C20:4n - 6 concentration was lower in the multiple sclerosis patients when compared to that of the control group, P = 0.04 and it correlated inversely with the EDSS and FSS.
Conclusion:
Decrease in C20:4n - 6 in the erythrocyte membrane could be an indication of depleted plasma stores, and a reflection of disease severity.
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