Demographics and clinical characteristics of multiple sclerosis in Kuwait

Raed Alroughani1, S F Ahmed, J Al-Hashel

  • 1Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Amiri Hospital, Kuwait, Kuwait.

European Neurology
|September 18, 2014
PubMed

Insights

This study analyzed 736 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients in Kuwait, revealing distinct clinical characteristics and early disease presentations compared to regional data. Findings highlight unique demographic and symptom patterns in Kuwaiti MS patients.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Epidemiology
  • Clinical Research

Background:

  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.
  • Understanding regional variations in MS demographics and clinical presentation is crucial for effective management.
  • Limited data exists on the specific characteristics of MS in the Middle Eastern population, particularly Kuwait.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the demographic and clinical features of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Kuwait.
  • To compare the onset symptoms and disease progression patterns of MS patients in Kuwait with regional cohorts.
  • To identify unique characteristics of MS within the Kuwaiti population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of data from 736 patients diagnosed with MS, sourced from two MS clinics in Kuwait.
  • Inclusion of patient demographics, age at onset, disease duration, presenting symptoms (cerebellar/brainstem, spinal), and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores.
  • Statistical analysis to determine mean values and percentages for key clinical and demographic parameters.

Main Results:

  • The study included 736 MS patients, with 77.7% exhibiting a relapsing-remitting course.
  • The mean age at onset was 26.87 years, and the mean disease duration was 7.71 years.
  • Cerebellar/brainstem (29.5%) and spinal (27.4%) manifestations were the most common presenting symptoms. 72.8% of patients had an EDSS score of ≤3.

Conclusions:

  • MS in Kuwait presents with distinct clinical characteristics, including specific onset symptoms and disease progression patterns, compared to other regional populations.
  • The findings underscore the importance of considering geographical variations in MS epidemiology and clinical expression.
  • Further research is warranted to explore the factors contributing to these observed differences in MS presentation and progression in Kuwait.

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