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The role of infections in the pathogenesis and course of multiple sclerosis

Siddharama Pawate1, Subramaniam Sriram

  • 1Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA. siddharama.pawate@vanderbilt.edu

Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology
|September 4, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Infectious agents may play a key role in causing and worsening multiple sclerosis (MS). This review examines evidence linking pathogens like Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Human Herpes Virus 6, and Epstein-Barr Virus to MS development and progression.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) genesis involves interplay between genetic susceptibility and environmental factors.
  • Infectious pathogens are a long-suspected central factor in MS pathogenesis.
  • Epidemiological data and immunological findings in cerebrospinal fluid support an infectious etiology for MS.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current understanding of infection's role in MS causation and progression.
  • To examine evidence supporting an infectious cause for MS.
  • To discuss specific implicated infectious agents.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epidemiological studies.
  • Analysis of immunological data from cerebrospinal fluid.
  • Examination of research on specific pathogens implicated in MS.

Main Results:

  • Evidence suggests a significant role for infectious agents in MS.
  • Specific pathogens, including Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Human Herpes Virus 6, and Epstein-Barr Virus, are implicated.
  • These agents may contribute to both the development and progression of MS.

Conclusions:

  • Infection is a critical environmental factor to consider in MS.
  • Further research into specific pathogens is warranted to understand their role in MS.
  • Understanding the interplay of infection and genetics is key to MS management.
Keywords:
Oligodendrocytecellular immunitymolecular mimicryoligoclonal bandstoll like receptors

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