Multiple sclerosis in North-West India

Fifty-four patients, with multiple sclerosis from North-West India are described. This included two pathologically proven cases of multiple sclerosis. Five patients conformed to the definition of neuromyelitis optica (Devic's syndrome). This study is in agreement with the other series reported from Asia regarding the special clinical features of multiple sclerosis described from this part of the world. There is more common occurrence of visual impairment at onset, predominant involvement of optic nerves and spinal cord and higher incidence of classical neuromyelitis optica. There is no relationship of any or all cerebro spinal fluid abnormalities with the type of multiple sclerosis, duration of an attack and disability, except for the possible relation between the type of colloidal gold reaction pattern and the type of multiple sclerosis.