What is the most common course type in multiple sclerosis?

• A. Relapsing-remitting
• B. Primary progressive
• C. Secondary progressive
• D. Progressive-relapsing

Answer: (A)

Most MS patients have a relapsing-remitting course, which is defined by discrete attacks of new or worsening neurological symptoms (relapses) followed by periods of partial or complete recovery (remission). This pattern describes the typical initial presentation for the majority of people with MS. Over time, many of these individuals accumulate disability and transition to a secondary progressive course, where there is gradual neurologic decline with or without superimposed relapses. The other forms—primary progressive MS, with steady progression from onset, and progressive-relapsing MS, a rarer pattern with progression plus relapses—occur less frequently. So, the relapsing-remitting pattern best represents the most common course in MS.