The Relationship Between Autoimmune Disorders and Multiple Sclerosis: Clinical Insights and Therapeutic Approaches

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and autoimmune diseases (AIDs) share immunological underpinnings, leading to frequent co-occurrence. This study investigated the prevalence of AIDs among Polish patients with MS (PwMSs) and its potential effects on disease characteristics. The aims were to compare clinical and demographic characteristics between PwMSs with and without coexisting AIDs.

A retrospective analysis was conducted on data from 580 PwMSs who were treated at the Department of Neurology, University Clinical Center in Katowice, Poland, between February 2018 and August 2023. Variables analyzed included age, sex, MS type, disease duration, treatment, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and vitamin D3 serum concentrations.

AID was identified in 16.9% of PwMSs (n = 98). Compared with PwMSs without AIDs, PwMSs with AIDs exhibited significantly higher mean age (44.61 ± 11.40 vs. 42.24 ± 12.27 years; p = 0.0151), longer disease duration (10.77 ± 6.72 vs. 9.56 ± 7.19 years; p = 0.0102), and higher EDSS scores (2.97 ± 1.43 vs. 2.89 ± 1.84; p = 0.0261). Among PwMSs, the prevalence of AIDs was significantly higher in females (20.24%) compared to males (8.13%; p = 0.0022), and strongly associated with the relapsing-remitting MS subtype (p = 0.0352). Autoimmune thyroid diseases were markedly the most prevalent in PwMSs (hypothyroidism 7.24%).

PwMSs with AIDs exhibit distinct characteristics, including older age, increased disease duration, and greater disability. Thyroid disorders are notably the most prevalent AIDs among PwMSs. These findings underscore the intricate interplay between AIDs and MS and highlight the necessity for further research into their long-term impact.