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Multiple sclerosis in Brazil: A systematic review
C C F Vasconcelos1, L C S Thuler2, B C Rodrigues1
1Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rua Mariz e Barros 775, Departamento de Neurologia-Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 20270-901, Brazil.
Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery
|October 19, 2016
Summary
This study reviewed multiple sclerosis (MS) in Brazil, finding that the clinical profile aligns with high-prevalence areas. African ancestry emerged as a risk factor for early disability and progression in MS patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Limited nationwide data on multiple sclerosis (MS) natural history in Brazil.
- Existing regional studies provide fragmented insights into MS in Brazil.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize available data on multiple sclerosis (MS) in Brazil.
- To consolidate information on the clinical and demographic profiles of MS patients in Brazil.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of Brazilian studies published between 1990 and 2012.
- Searches conducted in PubMed, SciELO, and Lilacs databases.
- Keywords included "Brazil" or "Brazilian" combined with terms related to MS clinical and demographic profiles.
Main Results:
- Analysis of 45 pediatric and 1922 adult MS patients.
- Median age at onset: 10 years (pediatric) and 32 years (adult).
- Women were more affected; motor complaints and relapsing-remitting phenotype were most common.
- Predictors of disability and progression included early relapses, older age, male gender, and African ancestry.
Conclusions:
- The Brazilian MS profile resembles that of high-prevalence regions.
- African ancestry is identified as a risk factor for early disability and progression in MS.
- Factors influencing MS incidence in Brazil do not appear to alter clinical patterns or outcomes.
