Multiple sclerosis: a literature review

J Neurosci Nurs. 1993 Jun;25(3):174-9. doi: 10.1097/01376517-199306000-00007.

Abstract

The pathology of multiple sclerosis (MS) was first described over 150 years ago. An estimated 250,000 to 350,000 people are affected with MS in this country. Young adults between the ages of 20 and 50 years are most commonly affected, with the majority of patients experiencing a relapsing course and progressive functional disability. To date, researchers have been unable to discover a precipitating cause. However, many now believe MS develops due to exposure to some unknown virus in a genetically predisposed individual. The incidence of disease is limited in temperate climates and higher in northern latitudes. Neuroscience nurses frequently care for individuals with MS and must, therefore, maintain a familiarity with the current literature and research.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cause of Death
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology
  • Cognition Disorders / nursing
  • Cognition Disorders / psychology
  • Depression / etiology
  • Depression / nursing
  • Depression / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Multiple Sclerosis / complications
  • Multiple Sclerosis / mortality
  • Multiple Sclerosis / nursing*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / psychology
  • Nursing Diagnosis
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / nursing
  • Pregnancy Complications / psychology
  • Psychology, Social