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[Clinical-epidemiological characteristics of late onset multiple sclerosis]

A O Gómez-García1, O Fernández-Concepción, E Milán-Ginjauma

  • 1Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Ciudad de la Habana, Cuba.

Revista De Neurologia
|April 7, 1998
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Late-onset multiple sclerosis (MS), diagnosed after age 40, presents distinct clinical features and a progressive disease course compared to early-onset MS. This study highlights differences in symptoms and disease progression between these groups.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Neuroimmunology
  • Clinical Neuroscience

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a primary demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system.
  • Late-onset MS (after age 40) constitutes 20-30% of cases and exhibits unique characteristics.
  • Understanding late-onset MS is crucial for tailored patient management and prognosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the clinical features and disease course of late-onset MS with early-onset MS.
  • To identify specific symptoms and progression patterns associated with MS onset after age 40.
  • To analyze the prevalence of different MS subtypes in late-onset versus early-onset populations.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 297 MS cases diagnosed between 1985 and 1994 were analyzed.
  • Late-onset cases (onset > 40 years) were compared to a randomized sample of 100 early-onset cases.
  • MS diagnosis was confirmed using Poser's criteria.

Main Results:

  • Late-onset MS accounted for 20.5% of the studied cohort.
  • Pyramidal signs were more frequent in late-onset MS, while sensory and visual symptoms were more common in early-onset MS.
  • Chronic progressive forms (primary and secondary) predominated in late-onset MS, contrasting with the exacerbating-remitting form in early-onset MS.

Conclusions:

  • Late-onset MS demonstrates distinct clinical manifestations and a more progressive disease course.
  • Age at onset is a significant factor influencing MS symptomatology and progression.
  • Further research into late-onset MS is warranted to optimize therapeutic strategies and improve patient outcomes.

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