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Types of multiple sclerosis

The progression of multiple sclerosis varies from person to person—no 2 cases of MS are identical. But based on a pattern of symptoms and frequency, these are the 4 categories of multiple sclerosis:

  • Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (also called RRMS) is the most common form of MS and affects approximately 85% of people who are newly diagnosed.1 Those who have RRMS may experience relapses that are usually followed by partial or complete recovery. Symptoms may then be inactive for months, or even years

  • Primary-progressive multiple sclerosis (also called PPMS) is a less common form of MS and affects approximately 10% of all people with MS.1 Those with PPMS may experience a slow onset but nearly continuous worsening of their condition, which may level off at some point or continue for months and years

  • Secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis (also called SPMS) can be a stage of multiple sclerosis after RRMS. People with SPMS may have occasional relapses, however, some symptoms remain constant with no remission. Late in the course of the disease, they may experience a progressive disability

  • Progressive-relapsing multiple sclerosis (also called PRMS) is the rarest form of the disease and affects approximately 5% of all people with MS.1 Those with PRMS may go through a steady worsening of their condition after being diagnosed. They may also experience clear, severe relapses with or without complete recovery


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References:
  1. National Multiple Sclerosis Society. What is Multiple Sclerosis? Available at: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/What%20is%20MS.asp. Accessed April 17, 2006.