Multiple Sclerosis is a common neurological condition with diverse presentations including focal neurological symptoms. Symptoms lasting 24-48 hours and occurring over 30 days apart could be indicative of MS. Evaluation includes MRI with gadolinium of the head and C-spine. On MRI, classic findings are white matter lesions in 2 of 4 areas: periventricular, juxtacortical, infratentorial, spinal cord. Referral to neurology is recommended to help with diagnosis and to direct treatment. 80-85% of cases are considered relapsing forms of MS. This is a newer and broader classification system compared to what many of us learned in training. There are three generations of treatment: interferons and glatiramer, "MS pills" as oral therapy, and injectable monoclonal antibodies. From one category to the next, there's increased efficacy of treatment as well as increased risk of side effects and need for monitoring.

Patients typically, but not always, experience a far milder clinical course than patients did a generation ago; to quote Dr. Shin, “the future is bright”.