Multiple Sclerosis

Types

The following descriptions for these three types of MS are attributed to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society www.nmss.org.

Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) is characterized by partial or total recovery after attacks. It is the most common form of MS. Eighty-five percent of people with MS begin with a relapsing-remitting course.

Secondary-progressive MS (SPMS) is a relapsing-remitting course which becomes steadily progressive. Attacks and partial recoveries may continue to occur. Of the 85 percent who start with relapsing-remitting disease, more than 60 percent will develop SPMS within 10 years.

Primary-progressive MS (PPMS) is progressive from the onset; symptoms generally do not remit — i.e., decrease in intensity. Fifteen percent of people with MS are diagnosed with PPMS. The diagnosis usually needs to be made after a person has been living for a period of time with progressive disability but not acute attacks.