Search for canine-distemper-virus antibodies in multiple sclerosis. A detailed virological evaluation

Sera and cerebrospinal fluid samples from multiple-sclerosis (MS) patients, matched controls, and subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) patients were analysed for the presence of antibodies specific for measles and canine distemper virus (CDV). Virus-specific antibodies were identified by haemagglutination inhibition, neutralisation, and immune precipitation in combination with polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis. SSPE and MS patients had a higher antibody activity towards measles virus than controls. Moreover, human sera partly neutralised CDV; this was attributed to antibody activity against CDV proteins, antigenically related to those of measles virus. However, CDV-specific antibodies were not found in the samples tested. These findings indicate that MS can develop without a preceding CDV infection.