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The epidemiology of multiple sclerosis
W E Hogancamp1, M Rodriguez, B G Weinshenker
1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|September 19, 1997
Summary
The cause of multiple sclerosis (MS) likely involves both genetic predisposition and environmental factors, rather than a single cause. Epidemiologic studies suggest environmental influences acting on a genetic background are key to MS susceptibility.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Genetics
Background:
- The etiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) remains unknown.
- Epidemiologic studies indicate a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors in MS susceptibility.
- Geographic variations, clusters, and migration patterns suggest environmental influences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize findings from epidemiologic studies regarding the causes of multiple sclerosis.
- To evaluate the evidence for genetic and environmental contributions to MS.
- To determine the most likely causal model for MS.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiologic studies on multiple sclerosis.
- Analysis of data on MS prevalence, geographic distribution, and migration patterns.
- Examination of genetic predisposition in different ethnic groups and familial clusters.
Main Results:
- Epidemiologic data support both genetic predisposition and environmental factors in MS.
- Higher MS risk observed in Europeans and relatives of patients suggests genetic influence.
- Evidence points to environmental factors influencing susceptibility on a genetic background.
Conclusions:
- The cause of multiple sclerosis is likely multifactorial, involving both genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers.
- Current evidence does not support a single or unique environmental cause for MS.
- An interaction between genetic background and environmental exposures is the most consistent explanation for MS etiology.