A REVIEW ON ADVANCEMENTS IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND ITS TREATMENT

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune demylination disorder of central nervous system. Although the etiology and pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis remains still unclear but the present study shows that the cause of multiple sclerosis is multifactorial and also includes several environmental factors like Vitamin D deficiency, infectious agents, smoking etc. Advancement of disabilities can be prevented by early diagnosis and treatment. Current search in neuropathology, neuroimmunology, neurobiology, neuroimaging together with clinical neurology provide information that multiple sclerosis is a spectrum not a single disease. There are many number of multiple sclerosis treatments available today which show a decrease in the frequency of relapses and disease progression. Conventional treatment for multiple sclerosis depends on the use of immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory drugs, and improves neuronal function and stop the disease progression. Clinical studies have shown that when compared to the known side effects of injectables such as glatiramer acetate and beta interferon, newer drugs have acceptable side effects. Clinical evaluation and monitoring of efficacy and safety of the available drugs is necessary for achieving better quality of life for the patient. In this article recent approaches and advancements in treatment of multiple sclerosis is reviewed.