Etiology of Multiple Sclerosis

 Etiology

1. Genetic

1. Risk of multiple sclerosis is increased in persons with an affected family member.

2. The risk is 3% for a sibling, 5% for fraternal twins, and  25% for identical twins.

Fig.1: Etiology of multiple sclerosis

1. Immunological factors

1. When persons with genetic susceptibility are exposed to the viral agent, the immune system response with activated myelin-active lymphocyte, called molecular mimicry.

2. This abnormal immune response causes inflammation and damage to the Central Nervous System.

3. Molecular mimicry is similarities between foreign and self-peptides are sufficient to result in cross-activation of T or B cells by pathogen-derived peptides.

2. Infective Factors

1. Measles, Human herpes virus-6, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and Chlamydia pneumonia, Canine distemper.

3. Vitamin D

1. People who live near the equator are exposed to a greater amount of sunlight they have a higher level of naturally produced vitamin D.

2. vitamin D helps in to support immune function and may help in to protect against immune-mediated diseases like multiple sclerosis.

3. Risk of multiple sclerosis may also be increased with vitamin D deficiency.

4. Smoking

1. Many studies suggest that stopping smoking (before or after the onset of multiple sclerosis) is associated with a slower progression of disability.

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