There are several different
forms of Multiple Sclerosis.The most common type is the relapsing remitting
type in which there is a sudden loss of function and after
days to weeks the function is regained. For example the
patient might have sudden weakness of the legs, and then
they recover function over days to weeks. About 85% of the
patient have this type at the onset. The second form
is secondary progressive. In this form the patient
starts with the relapsing remitting form, but after awhile
they start to have progressive worsening without significant
recovery. There could still be relapses but there is minimal
recovery.
About 50% of the patients with relapsing remitting
type will get the secondary progressive form, however this data
is prior to use of medication that are disease modifying.
The third type is called primary progressive . In
this syndrome patients progressively get worse without distinct
attacks. This is a relatively rare syndrome. About 10% of
patients have this kind.