New MS diagnostic criteria. (News).

It has been 20 years since the criteria for the diagnosis of MS were revised. In the last two decades, understanding of the disease has improved, disease types have been more fully described, and MRI has become fully integrated into studying the disease. Moreover, the availability of disease-modifying treatments (Betaseron, Avonex, and Copaxone) makes accurate diagnosis of MS more urgent than ever before.

Two years ago, the National MS Society, in conjunction with the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation, asked an international group of MS experts to evaluate current diagnostic criteria and create new guidelines that could be used by practicing physicians and adapted to clinical trials.

"Tip sheet" for physicians

The details of the new diagnostic criteria were published in the July 2001 issue of Annals of Neurology. The process of diagnosis is outlined for the general reader in Diagnosis, a Basic Facts Series sheet available on Our Web site at <national mssociety.org/brochures.asp> or from your chapter.

In addition, the Society designed a laminated chart for physicians to use as a "tip sheet" on the new criteria. So far, more than 10,000 copies have been circulated free to physicians around the world.

Although the panel's revised diagnostic criteria emphasize objective clinical, imaging, and laboratory evidence, the diagnosis of MS still remains a partly subjective process. The diagnosis is best made by an expert who is familiar with the disease.