Conditions Related To Multiple Sclerosis

The following conditions are also managed in the University of Rochester Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis clinic. Depending on the individual, a person with one of these conditions may or may not be at high risk for developing multiple sclerosis in the future.

Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM)

ADEM is a separate condition from multiple sclerosis, but also involves inflammation in the brain and/or spinal cord that injures the nerve cell’s insulation (myelin). The inflammation may be triggered by a recent illness (a cold or stomach flu), and it causes symptoms of neurological problems similar to MS. It is more common in children than in adults, and 90 percent of the time it does not recur or lead to MS in the future.

Autoimmune Encephalitis

Autoimmune encephalitis in children, particularly NMDA receptor encephalitis, is a serious condition where the immune system attacks receptors in the brain, which are crucial for normal brain function. This leads to inflammation and can cause a range of symptoms, including sudden changes in behavior, severe confusion, memory loss, seizures, and movement disorders. Children may also experience hallucinations, sleep disturbances, and difficulty speaking or understanding language. Early diagnosis and treatment, typically involving immune therapies to reduce the immune attack and manage symptoms, are essential for recovery. With prompt and appropriate treatment, many children can improve significantly over time.

Down Syndrome Regression Disorder (DSRD)

Down Syndrome Regression Disorder (DSRD) is a condition in which individuals with Down syndrome experience a noticeable decline in cognitive, social, and functional abilities after a period of stable development, most commonly in the teenage years. This regression can include loss of speech, motor skills, and social engagement, along with increased anxiety, depression, or behavioral changes. The exact cause is unknown, but it may have an immune cause. Diagnosis involves evaluating for other medical conditions, and treatment often focuses on a combination of therapies, including immune, psychological, and behavioral interventions, to help manage symptoms and support the individual's overall well-being.

Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein (MOG) Associated Disease

MOG antibody disease, also known as MOGAD, is a rare autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly targets a protein called myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) found on the surface of nerve cells in the brain and spine. This leads to inflammation and injury to the myelin sheath, the protective covering of nerves, resulting in symptoms such as vision problems, muscle weakness, and difficulty with coordination and balance. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to manage symptoms and prevent relapses, and therapies often include immunosuppressive medications to reduce immune system activity.

Optic Neuritis

Optic neuritis describes inflammation in the optic nerves—the nerves that transmit information from the eye to the brain—that injures the neuron’s insulation. It can occur in the context of an already diagnosed case of MS or at the onset of MS, but it can also occur when no MS is present. Rarely, other diseases can cause optic neuritis. Individuals with optic neuritis usually recover their vision completely or nearly completely over several weeks.

Transverse Myelitis

Transverse myelitis describes inflammation in the spinal cord that injures the nerve cell’s insulation. It can occur in the context of an already diagnosed case of MS or at the onset of MS, but frequently occurs in isolation and does not recur or lead to a diagnosis of MS. Individuals with transverse myelitis recover significantly from neurologic symptoms in 80 percent of cases.

Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO)

NMO is a rare condition that causes inflammation in the spinal cord and optic nerve with relatively minimal inflammation in other parts of the brain. This condition is distinct from MS, but usually does cause relapses over time. An antibody test in the blood can help identify this disorder.