Children with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating syndrome of the central nervous system (CNS). MS is a rare disease compared to the classic adult-onset MS. There have recently been improvements in the understanding of pediatric CNS demyelination, including pathogenesis, epidemiology, magnetic resonance imaging, laboratory features, and treatment. This chapter reviews the current understanding of these, including epidemiology and special health care needs in childhood MS. Early assessment of factors that predict successful health outcomes and social inclusion of children with MS could guide supporting interventions such as social assistance, coaching, and psychological counseling, thus improving their community participation later on.