Multiple sclerosis: Indian experience in the last thirty years.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease with a variable incidence globally.
• Understanding the epidemiology and clinical presentation of MS in diverse populations like India is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of multiple sclerosis (MS) in India based on published data.
• To compare the presentation of MS in India with that observed in Western countries.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and analysis of 354 cases of MS reported in India over the past three decades.
• Comparison of clinical features, including optic nerve involvement and neuromyelitis optica incidence, with international data.

Main Results:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is confirmed as uncommon in India.
• Indian MS cases exhibit a higher incidence of optic nerve involvement and neuromyelitis optica compared to Western populations.
• A potential geographical variation, with higher prevalence in northern India, was suggested.

Conclusions:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) in India presents with distinct features, notably increased optic nerve and neuromyelitis optica involvement.
• Further research is needed to confirm geographical variations and understand the specific etiological factors in the Indian subcontinent.