Stages of MS Development
MS can be divided into four stages or disease courses:
- Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS): CIS is a stage when symptoms occur and last for a minimum of one day. In most cases, the symptoms are caused by damage to myelin in the CNS. It would help to know CIS does not automatically lead to MS.
- Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS): RRMS comes with attacks, clinically known as relapses, of new or existing neurological symptoms. You may experience partial or total recovery after relapses.
- Secondary progressive MS (SPMS): SPMS starts as RRMS but gradually exacerbates over time. However, RRMS does not turn into SPMS every time.
- Primary progressive MS (PPMS): PPMS is characterized by an exacerbation of existing neurological symptoms. Late-onset multiple sclerosis usually starts at the most severe stage.