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Updated: May 8, 2026
08:51
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Multiple Sclerosis at 7.0 Tesla
Published on: February 19, 2021
Brain radiation and possible presentation of multiple sclerosis
Vahid Shaygannejad1, Mohammad Zare, Helia Maghzi
1Department of Neurology, Isfahan Neurosciences Research Center, Isfahan, Iran ; Department of Neurology, Medical School, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
Summary
Radiation therapy for brain tumors may trigger Multiple Sclerosis (MS). A case study suggests conventional radiation doses could potentially induce MS in patients, even months after treatment completion.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Neurology
Background:
- Radiation therapy is a standard treatment for brain tumors, aiming for curative or palliative effects.
- Radiation-induced neurotoxicity can manifest as damage to brain tissue (parenchymal) and blood vessels (vascular).
Observation:
- A 43-year-old woman was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) approximately nine months after completing radiotherapy.
- The patient had previously undergone radiation treatment for a diagnosed meningioma.
Findings:
- This case report suggests a potential link between conventional doses of radiation therapy and the subsequent development of Multiple Sclerosis.
- The temporal association indicates that radiation might act as a trigger for MS in susceptible individuals.
Implications:
- Further research is warranted to explore the potential of radiation therapy to trigger autoimmune neurological conditions like MS.
- Understanding this association could refine treatment protocols and patient monitoring strategies for individuals undergoing cranial radiation.
- This finding may prompt a re-evaluation of the long-term risks associated with radiation-induced neurotoxicity.
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