Types of Multiple Sclerosis: An Overview
There are a few different types of
multiple sclerosis (
MS). Each case of MS follows one of several patterns regarding how it appears and the course it follows. The patterns of multiple sclerosis include:
- Relapsing-remitting
- Primary-progressive
- Secondary-progressive
- Progressive-relapsing.
Relapsing-Remitting
Most commonly, multiple sclerosis begins as a series of attacks followed by complete or partial remissions as the symptoms mysteriously lessen, only to return later after a period of stability. This is called relapsing-remitting (RR) multiple sclerosis.
Primary-Progressive
Primary-progressive (PP) MS is characterized by a gradual clinical decline in function, with no distinct remissions. However, there may be temporary plateaus or minor relief from symptoms.
Secondary-Progressive
Secondary-progressive (SP) multiple sclerosis begins with a relapsing-remitting course followed by a later primary-progressive course.
Progressive-Relapsing
In rare cases, patients may have a progressive-relapsing (PR) course in which the disease becomes progressively worse, with acute attacks flaring up along the way. Primary-progressive, secondary-progressive, and progressive-relapsing are sometimes lumped together and called chronic progressive multiple sclerosis.
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