Primary progressive multiple sclerosis


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Primary progressive multiple sclerosis


Primary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) is a form of MS in which the disease is progressive from the start. Symptoms such as muscle weakness, leg dragging, and stiffness become worse, and nerve function deteriorates steadily, though this occurs at different rates in different people.

Primary progressive MS occurs in just a small number of people with MS. In these people, the illness may be severe from the start with a quick progression of neurological problems over several months. There are no periods when symptoms do not occur (remission).

While there is no cure for MS, medications can reduce the number, frequency, and severity of relapses and may slow the progression of the disease.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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