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Gender-Related Differences in Prodromal Multiple Sclerosis Characteristics: A 7-Year Observation Study
Jakub Perwieniec1, Krzysztof Podwójcic2, Michał Maluchnik3
1Department of Analysis and Strategy, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Poland, 00-952 Warsaw, Poland.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|September 10, 2021
Summary
Prodromal symptoms before multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis differ significantly between sexes. Women reported more musculoskeletal, ophthalmic, and mental symptoms, while men showed more cardiovascular and reproductive issues, highlighting gender-specific preclinical MS indicators.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Medical Research
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) exhibits a preclinical phase with prodromal symptoms preceding diagnosis.
- Known gender disparities in MS incidence and clinical course suggest potential sex-based differences in early symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare a wide range of prodromal signs and symptoms between males and females in the seven years prior to MS diagnosis.
- To investigate potential sex-specific patterns in the preclinical phase of multiple sclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of health record claims data from Poland's national healthcare system (2009-2016).
- Comparison of symptom prevalence between male and female patients in the 7-year period before confirmed MS diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Women showed significantly higher prevalence of musculoskeletal, ophthalmic, laryngological, digestive, urinary, mental, and cardiovascular symptoms, as well as headaches.
- Men exhibited significant musculoskeletal, ophthalmic, laryngological, cardiovascular symptoms, and headaches, with a notable overrepresentation of reproductive system problems.
- Dermatological and reproductive complaints were not significant in women; digestive, urinary, and mental complaints were not significant in men.
Conclusions:
- Prodromal symptom profiles in the preclinical phase of multiple sclerosis differ markedly between sexes.
- These findings contribute to understanding gender-based epidemiological and clinical variations in MS, suggesting sex-specific early detection strategies may be warranted.
