New Hope for MS Patients in Buffalo

By Annette Pinder

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). As a result, the protective myelin coating (sheath) on nerve cells which functions much like insulation on an electrical wire, becomes damaged, and signals from the nerves can become slow or blocked. Characteristic lesions called “multiple scars” can be seen on an MRI in a person with MS, which gives the disease its name.

Symptoms of MS can include weakness, numbness, tingling, balance and gait problems, problems with thinking, mood, and fatigue, bowel and bladder problems, sexual dysfunction, and problems with speech, swallowing or vision. MS patients often exhibit intolerance to heat making damaged nerves less efficient, bringing on symptoms.

There are 400,000 MS patients in the US, and over 2.5 million worldwide. The disease is of particular concern in Western New York where the incidence is significantly higher. This is because MS is correlated with colder climates and living above 40 degrees from the equator.  Higher incidences are also seen in Europe and in Caucasians of Scandinavian ancestry, although MS can affect any ethnic group. 

MS is thought to occur as result of geography, environmental influences, and possibly genetics.  Currently researchers believe low vitamin D levels may affect MS.  Symptoms usually occur between ages of 15 and 45 and two to three times more likely in women. Interestingly, MS exacerbations and relapses are less frequent during pregnancy, urging researchers to investigate the role of female hormones on MS.

Seven disease modifying medications (Avonex, Betaseron, Copaxone, Gilenya, Novantrone, Rebif, Tysabri) are currently approved for the treatment of Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). In September 2010, fingolimod (Gilenya) became the first oral medication to enter the market.  According to Malti J. Patel, M.D. who has conducted several MS clinical trials at the Dent, “This is a very exciting time for MS, and more drugs are expected to enter the market in the coming years, giving patients and physicians options to tailor MS therapy to specific patients.” 

But Dr. Patel urges patients to “stick with what works for you and work with your neurologist to choose the most effective medication for you, and one that you are willing to take regularly.” She says, “All MS drugs are effective, and have advantages and disadvantages.  Currently approved treatments can slow disease progress and provide improved quality of life, allowing patients to live more normal lives for a longer period of time.”

Dr. Patel is Medical Director for the Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at DENT Neurologic Institute (DENT). She is an Attending Neurologist at DENT and  a consulting attending for the Primary Brain Tumor and Neurology Clinic at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. To make an appointment to see Dr. Patel call 716-250-2000.

DENT is conducting a research study for patients between the ages of 18 and 55 being treated for a relapsing form of MS, who have had symptoms return twice during the past two years or once within the past year.  Qualified participants will receive study-related exams and either an investigational drug, or an approved medication called Rebif.  To find out more contact Michelle Rainka,PharmD at 716-250-2038 or Kristin Surdam at 716-819-4117.