Analysing the structure of 23 clinical trials in multiple sclerosis

At present many trials appear to be using subjective data, but using these data in an unsystematic and inappropriate way. In this context it is not surprising that subjective measures have a generally low status amongst investigators in clinical trials in MS. A more careful approach to such subjective measures would enable trials to take into account a significantly wider range of features. Controlled trials can then act as an important psychosocial as well as biomedical laboratory in the understanding of MS.