Advancements in multiple sclerosis

The global prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) is increasing, and early diagnosis and treatment is essential in mitigating disability. While recent therapeutic advancements have significantly reduced relapse rates, the progressive and degenerative aspects of MS continue to pose major challenges. This year updates to the McDonald diagnostic criteria aim to enhance sensitivity and facilitate earlier use of disease-modifying therapies in asymptomatic patients. Additionally, novel biomarkers will gain ground in clinical practice and offer new approaches to optimising care. Following the widespread use of cell depleting immunosuppressive agents, innovative therapeutic directions such as chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) vaccination represent promising new directions in the management of MS. This clinical perspective provides a comprehensive overview of the disease while highlighting important advancements shaping the future of the field.