Multiple sclerosis: from demyelination to neurodegeneration

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune demyelinating inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, characterized by demyelination and subsequent neurodegeneration secondary to neuronal damage due to axonal loss. Currently, it is still a disease of unknown etiology that affects more than 2 000 000 people, it is associated with various genetic and environmental factors that increase susceptibility, and occurs mainly in the 20-40 age group. For the preparation of this article, a review of the literature available in databases such as PubMed and SagePub was carried out. Original articles, bibliographic reviews, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses in English and Spanish were selected in order to review multiple sclerosis, its background, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, classification, diagnostic criteria and available therapy. Advances in treatment have improved the quality of life by reducing the frequency and severity of flares. However, the etiology of the disease remains uncertain, and its neurodegenerative effects are poorly prognosed.