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An updated meta-analysis of risk of multiple sclerosis following infectious mononucleosis

Adam E Handel1, Alexander J Williamson, Giulio Disanto

  • 1Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.

Plos One
|September 9, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

A history of infectious mononucleosis (IM) significantly increases the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). This updated meta-analysis confirms a strong association between IM and MS.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Immunology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis involves genetic susceptibility and environmental factors.
  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is highly prevalent in MS patients.
  • Previous studies suggested a link between infectious mononucleosis (IM) and MS risk.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To re-evaluate the association between infectious mononucleosis (IM) and the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS).
  • To incorporate recent large-scale studies into a comprehensive meta-analysis.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic Medline search identified relevant studies published after a prior meta-analysis.
  • Included 18 articles with 19,390 MS patients and 16,007 controls.
  • Utilized a random-effects model to calculate the relative risk (RR) of MS following IM.

Main Results:

  • The updated meta-analysis found a strong association between IM and MS risk.
  • The relative risk of MS following IM was 2.17 (95% CI: 1.97-2.39, p<10(-54)).
  • This indicates a statistically significant increased risk.

Conclusions:

  • A history of infectious mononucleosis significantly elevates the risk of developing multiple sclerosis.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and interactions with other risk factors.

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