[Multiple sclerosis: results and prospects of research]

On the basis of the results of his own research work, as well as literary data the author analyzes the present state of the problem of disseminated sclerosis. The main trends in the studies of this disease are outlined. A conclusion is drawn that disseminated sclerosis can be regarded as a slow neuroinfection the etiology of which implies the existence of a persisting viral factor. Other etiological factors are genetic inadequacy of immunity (probably, the cellular one) and certain geographic factors as yet unknown. Of importance for further progress of the disease are autoimmune mechanisms and functional changes in the demyelinized fibres caused by various external and internal factors. The author stresses the necessity of active treatment of the patients with presently existing means.