Therapeutic Claims in Multiple Sclerosis, 3d ed.

This book, developed by the Therapeutic Claims Committee of the International Federation of Multiple Sclerosis Societies, is written to provide information about the most frequently used treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS). It is intended to be both a reference for physicians and a guide for the general public. Nine practicing neurologists from various countries comprise the committee.

The introductory chapter includes a brief description of the effects of MS and the natural course of the disease. The second chapter addresses problems in designing studies to investigate the effectiveness of treatments for MS and summarizes the rationale of both traditional and more recent treatments. The remaining four chapters use a clear, concise format to individually summarize treatments for MS, including a description of the treatment, rationale for its use, a review of any research evidence, risks and costs, and the committee's conclusion. Each chapter covers a different category of MS treatment: treatment during acute exacerbation, methods to prevent worsening, symptomatic and general management, and miscellaneous empirical treatments. Included are drug and surgical interventions, diets, and many other proposed methods for treating MS. Only very slight mention is made of physical therapy intervention, and this is quite general in nature.

The authors have managed to condense a large body of knowledge concerning the medical management of MS into an easily readable reference. They address the relevant research and provide information that can be used to make informed decisions regarding particular treatments.

A problem with the book stems from the attempt to address two disparate audiences. The information tends not to be comprehensive enough for the physician and is too technical for the health care consumer. In attempting to provide useful information for both physicians and the lay audience, it serves neither group effectively.

Another significant weakness of the book is the lack of references. Numerous studies are covered, but only a very limited bibliography is included.

This book could be useful only as a general information source for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants who are treating patients with multiple sclerosis. The clinician should bear in mind, however, the lack of substantiation and be willing to independently search the literature for more specific information regarding given treatments. Entry-level students, however, may find this to be a useful general reference book.