prognostic factors in multiple sclerosis

Last reviewed 01/2018

The following factors are associated with a poor prognosis in patients with multiple sclerosis:

  • male sex
  • older age at onset
  • motor or cerebellar signs at onset
  • short interval between first and second attacks
  • high relapse rate in the early years of the disease
  • incomplete remission after first few relapses
  • early disability
  • high lesion load on MRI scan

Reference:

  • Polman, CH, Uitdehaag, BMJ. (2000). Drug treatment of multiple sclerosis. BMJ; 321: 490-4