Interferon treatment of multiple sclerosis.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) treatment encompasses relapse management, disease progression control (immunomodulators, immunosuppression), and symptomatic relief.
• Interferon therapy is a key immunomodulatory treatment for MS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the application of interferon therapy in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients.
• To evaluate patient demographics, diagnostic methods (MRI, CSF, EP), neurological status (EDSS scores), and gender distribution.
• To assess the impact of patient education and support on self-administration of Betaferon and reduction of side effects.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of patient histories for individuals who underwent a Multiple Sclerosis (MS) commission at the Neurology Clinic, Clinical Center of Sarajevo University.
• Utilized a specially designed form for data collection from 34 patients, with 16 receiving interferon therapy.
• Data processing included demographic, diagnostic, and clinical outcome measures.

Main Results:

• In 2009, 34 MS patients were evaluated for interferon therapy recommendation; 16 initiated treatment.
• The average Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score was 1.8, with a 3:1 female-to-male ratio.
• No significant differences in neurological findings were observed between patients previously treated with interferon and those awaiting treatment.

Conclusions:

• 34 patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) received recommendations for interferon treatment in 2009.
• The average EDSS score was 1.8, indicating a comparable level of disability across the evaluated cohort.
• Neurological status did not significantly differ between patients with prior interferon exposure and treatment-naïve individuals.