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The management of pediatric multiple sclerosis

E Ann Yeh1, Bianca Weinstock-Guttman

  • 1Demyelinating Disorders Program, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. ann.yeh@sickkids.ca

Journal of Child Neurology
|August 24, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Disease-modifying therapies can prevent disability in pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS). This review covers acute relapse treatments and long-term management strategies for children and adolescents with relapsing-remitting MS.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatrics
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (MS) presents unique challenges in management and treatment.
  • Early intervention is crucial for preventing long-term disability in young MS patients.
  • Relapsing-remitting MS is the predominant form in children and adolescents, accounting for 99% of cases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current literature on therapies for pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (MS).
  • To discuss disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for preventing relapses and slowing progression in pediatric MS.
  • To explore future directions for managing cognitive decline, fatigue, and depression in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of available studies on pediatric MS management.
  • Focus on therapies for acute exacerbations and DMTs.
  • Inclusion of symptomatic interventions for associated conditions.

Main Results:

  • Disease-modifying therapies are key to preventing disability in pediatric MS.
  • Current literature supports the use of specific DMTs to manage relapsing-remitting MS in children and adolescents.
  • Symptomatic treatments for cognitive and mood disturbances are an area for future research.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of pediatric MS involves prompt treatment of acute relapses and long-term use of DMTs.
  • Preventing disability progression is achievable with appropriate therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research is needed to optimize symptomatic interventions for the holistic well-being of young MS patients.

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