1. MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS CLAIRE BISCHOFF, ASHLEY FOLDEN, AND CASSIE NEWMAN

2. DESCRIPTION Sclerosis means scarring, and in this case scarring of the brain Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease. MS is caused by damage to the myelin sheath which is a protective covering around neurons (nerve cells). Without this covering nerve signals slow down or stop.

3. CAUSE The nerve damage is caused by inflammation, and this inflammation occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the nervous system. This can occur along any area of the brain, optic nerve, and spinal cord.

4. CAUSE However there is no known cause as to why the body attacks the nervous system. It is suspected that it could be a virus or a gene defect but environmental factors may play a part

5. SYMPTOMS Loss of balance Muscle spasms Numbness Problems moving arms and legs Problems walking Coordination problems Tremors Weakness Vision loss Slurred speech Seizures

6. PROGRESSION Individuals with MS have multiple episodes of the disease. With each episode the brain becomes more and more scarred and therefore it is more difficult to recover. Each episode worsens the condition.

7. TREATMENT There is no cure for multiple sclerosis. Treatment is focused on preventing more episodes of the disease. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation Plasmapheresis- mechanically separates your blood cells from your plasma, used to combat severe symptoms Beta interferons (Avonex, Betaseron, Extavia)- used to slow the progression of the disease Immunosuppressants – only used to treat advanced mutiple sclerosis Glatiramer- blocks immune system from attacking the myelin sheath Physical therapy Muscle relaxants

8. EXPECTED OUTCOME Most people with MS can function and walk with minimal disability for 20 or more years but this depends on frequency of attacks and their severity Over time there is a greater loss of function and eventually a wheelchair is typically needed. Women tend to have a better outlook than men