Demyelinating disease

A demyelinating disease is any condition that results in damage to the protective covering (myelin sheath) that surrounds nerves in your brain and spinal cord.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common type of demyelinating disease. In this disorder, your immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath. This causes inflammation and injury to the sheath and ultimately to the nerves that it surrounds. The result may be multiple areas of scarring (sclerosis). Eventually, this damage can slow or block the nerve signals that control muscle coordination, strength, sensation and vision.

Other types of demyelinating disease include:

• Optic neuritis. This condition is due to inflammation of the optic nerve in one or both eyes, which can lead to sudden vision loss. It may occur as an isolated attack or as a sign of MS.
• Devic disease (neuromyelitis optica). Characterized by inflammation of the optic nerve and spinal cord, this disorder usually causes temporary blindness. It can also lead to muscle weakness or paralysis.
• Transverse myelitis. This disorder is caused by inflammation of the spinal cord, which can lead to muscle weakness, pain or paralysis.
• Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. This disorder is the result of inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Signs and symptoms include headache, delirium, seizures and coma.

Treatment depends on the type of demyelinating disease but may include corticosteroid medications.