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The University of Chicago Hospitals have a long and distinguished record in addressing multiple sclerosis (MS) through clinical research, laboratory research, and disease management. As early as 1978, University of Chicago physicians made groundbreaking findings on the role of immune system T cells in damaging myelin. This research team has contributed many important findings to advance the scientific knowledge about MS.
Until the early 1990s, there was no effective treatment for MS; now there are three FDA-approved drugs which can slow the disease progression in some patients. University of Chicago neurologists and neurology researchers played a critical role in developing and testing the first of these approved drugs: interferon beta, which received FDA approval in 1993.
University of Chicago basic scientists and clinical scientists (physicians) work together to find new answers to MS and its related problems. This scientific approach to MS means that patients here often have access to innovative therapies before they are approved by the FDA for general use. For example, University of Chicago now offer botox injections for persons with overactive bladders, which can be problematic in MS. Our physicians also are in close contact with leading MS specialists worldwide, and can bring the freshest medical insights into patient care.
About Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis occurs when there is a deterioration of the myelin sheathing which protects nerve fibers of the brain and spinal cord. "Multiple" means that many areas of the brain and spinal cord are affected; "sclerosis" means that hardened patches of scar tissue (plaques) may form over the damaged myelin. The resulting effect is that nerve impulses to and from the brain are slowed or interrupted.
The disease often strikes people in their twenties or thirties. Women are twice as likely as men to develop MS. Like many neurologic diseases, MS can be progressive; it does not go away. Although rare, MS can strike children and adolescents. At the University of Chicago Children's Hospital, an experienced pediatric neurologist has expertise in the diagnosis and management of MS in children.
Symptoms
Symptoms of MS can vary greatly in nature, frequency and severity. Common symptoms include a tingling sensation, numbness, poor coordination, tremor, muscle tightness or spasticity, dizziness, slurred speech, double vision or blurred vision, slurred speech, and problems with bowel, bladder, and sexual function.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis follows a comprehensive examination of the patient, and sometimes involves magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and evoked potential testing. Lumbar puncture also may be necessary to analyze the spinal fluid.
Because MS symptoms can mimic other conditions, it is sometimes misdiagnosed. An accurate diagnosis requires a detailed examination of the patient made by an experienced MS specialist.
Treatment
Although there is no cure available for MS, many of its symptoms can be treated or lessened. Treatment generally slows the progression of MS, so patients experience fewer exacerbations ("attacks").
Patients may benefit from one of the three FDA-approved medications, or from many other therapies currently being investigated at the University of Chicago Hospitals. An individualized treatment plan is based on an in-depth discussion between the patient and the physician regarding the potential benefits and side effects of each treatment option. Physicians also discuss realistic expectations of each treatment approach.
Because MS can affect a person's whole being, the physicians here take a holistic approach to managing the disease and counseling patients. These experts address issues related to fatigue; emotional and cognitive changes; bladder, bowel and sexual function; difficulty walking; muscle stiffness; and other problems related to MS. When appropriate, patients are referred to other specialists at the University of Chicago or in the community to address specific symptoms.
Clinical Trials
The University of Chicago Hospitals have many ongoing clinical trials to study the effectiveness of innovative therapies for MS and its related symptoms. Some of these studies are supported or funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or the National MS Society. Currently, there are many trials in progress, although only some of these studies are open to new patients at this time. Research nurses often work closely with clinical trial participants.
U of C Research in MS
University of Chicago researchers are probing into the immune system and cellular mechanisms that cause multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating diseases. In addition to their breakthrough role in developing beta interferon for treating MS, researchers here also have been instrumental in finding improved methods to more accurately diagnose MS. Their research in neuroimmunology is helpful in finding more effective ways to treat MS and other disorders related to the immune system (including myasthenia gravis, Guillain Barré syndrome, and polymyositis).
Several University of Chicago physicians serve on the advisory board of the National MS Society's local chapter.
Related Websites
National MS Society
South Cook MS Support Group (Chicago suburbs) |
