What type of Multiple Sclerosis begins as relapsing-remitting but leads to a gradual decline?

Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS) is characterized by an initial course of relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), where patients experience episodes of symptoms followed by periods of relative recovery. Over time, many individuals with RRMS may transition to SPMS. This transition occurs when the relapsing phase diminishes and patients start to experience a gradual progression of symptoms and disability without significant relapses.

The defining feature of SPMS is that, although there may still be occasional flare-ups or relapses, the overall trend is toward a steady decline in neurological function. This contrasts with the primary progressive form, which shows a gradual progression from the onset without the relapses. Progressive-relapsing MS includes progressive disease from the beginning with intermittent relapses but does not have the same characteristic of starting from a relapsing-remitting state. Chronic progressive is not a recognized classification in the same way as the other types.

By understanding how SPMS develops from RRMS and its implications for patient management, one gains crucial insights into the progression of Multiple Sclerosis and the importance of monitoring changes in a patient’s condition over time.