Childhood multiple sclerosis and related disorders

Multiple sclerosis (MS) in children and adolescents is increasingly recognized worldwide. Demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system may overlap considerably in their clinical presentation and radiological appearance. Therefore an exact categorization might be challenging and might not be readily attainable. Rigorous radiological and laboratory investigations and longitudinal follow up of the patient are needed in order to establish the diagnosis of a chronic demyelinating disorder especially in children. However, in the past few years many advances have been achieved in the field of pediatric MS and other white matter disease such as establishing diagnostic criteria, consensus definitions proposed for pediatric multiple sclerosis and related disorders and advances in treating such disorders. A wealth of knowledge regarding childhood MS have been established with vast speed and greater familiarity with the diagnosis and treatment options should lead to better care of children with such disorders. This review will present the important advances in childhood multiple sclerosis and related disorders that were achieved in the last few years.