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MS and NMO are autoimmune diseases where the body's immune system reacts against itself and attacks its own healthy cells and tissue. Specifically, the immune system attacks the central nervous system’s myelin, the protective coating around nerve cells. Attacks on myelin create areas of inflammation throughout the central nervous system, which slow or interrupt the flow of information that move via the nerve cells, resulting in MS symptoms.
There are several different types of multiple sclerosis (MS):
While MS is more often diagnosed in adults between the ages of 20 and 40, children can also develop the autoimmune disease. NMO presents more commonly in childhood.
MS occurs when there is damage to the myelin (protective coating surrounding nerve fibers) in the central nervous system. The damaged or inflamed myelin then interferes with the transmission of nerve signals between the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body.
While it is difficult to determine the exact cause of MS in most people, some cases are thought to be caused by genetics.
Other factors that could potentially damage the central nervous system and contribute to MS or other nervous system disorders in children include:
The cause of these conditions is still a mystery. Researchers believe several factors may play a role including genetics, issues with the immune system, and environmental factors.
MS symptoms are variable and unpredictable, and no two children’s symptoms are identical. Symptoms in patients can also fluctuate at times or disappear altogether, while new ones crop up or others remain permanent.
The most common symptoms of nervous system disorders like MS in children are:
MS and NMO symptoms are different in each person. Some may experience a couple of symptoms, while others may experience many. Therefore, treatments are often customized to each patient.
Before diagnosing MS, a complete physical exam is needed to rule out any other medical conditions, along with a review of your child’s family medical history. A neurological exam, most likely an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), and a spinal fluid analysis (or spinal tap) may also be ordered.
To determine if your child has MS, our staff will review your medical history and specific details about symptoms experienced. An official diagnosis of MS follows evidence of damage found in at least two separate central nervous system areas, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves.
There is no cure for MS and NMO. Treatment is focused on controlling the immune system and helping manage symptoms. Because symptoms vary for each patient, following a thorough medical evaluation, a CNCA provider will develop an individualized care plan to meet the patient’s specific needs.
There are medications available for children to help manage their MS symptoms. Also, a combination of physical, occupational, and/or speech therapies can be extremely beneficial. Helping your child maintain a sense of control over their physical capabilities, to the best extent possible, is very important. Support groups and counseling can help kids navigate the emotional and social issues they might encounter due to MS.