Esclerosis Multiple (Ingles)

Multiple sclerosis (MS), also known as "disseminated sclerosis" or "encephalomyelitis disseminata", is an inflammatory disease in which the fattymyelin sheaths around the axons ofthe brain and spinal cord are damaged, leading to demyelination and scarring as well as a broad spectrum ofsigns and symptoms. Disease onset usually occurs in young adults, and it is more common in women. It hasa prevalence that ranges between 2 and 150 per 100,000. MS was first described in 1868 by Jean-Martin Charcot.
MS affects the ability of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord to communicate with each othereffectively. Nerve cells communicate by sending electrical signals called action potentials down long fibers called axons, which are contained within an insulating substance called myelin. In MS, thebody's own immune system attacks and damages the myelin. When myelin is lost, the axons can no longer effectively conduct signals. The namemultiple sclerosis refers to scars (scleroses—better known asplaques or lesions) particularly in the white matter of the brain and spinal cord, which is mainly composed of myelin. Although much is known about the mechanisms involved in the disease process, thecause remains unknown. Theories include genetics or infections.
There is no known cure for multiple sclerosis. Treatments attempt to return function after an attack, prevent new attacks, andprevent disability. MS medications can have adverse effects or be poorly tolerated, and many people pursue alternative treatments, despite the lack of supporting scientific study. The prognosis is difficultto predict; it depends on the subtype of the disease, the individual's disease characteristics, the initial symptoms and the degree of disability the person experiences as time advances.
Causes
Mostlikely MS occurs as a result of some combination of genetic, environmental and infectious factors, and possibly other factors like vascular problems. Epidemiological studies of MS have provided...