Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that is characterized by recurring attacks on the central nervous system, brain, spinal cord, and eyes. Processes that cause the symptoms of MS include demyelination, the process in which the outermost layer of the nerve cell--myelin--is destroyed. In another process, plaque forms on the brain and spinal cord. This is a rare disease in children: 5 percent of all cases are in people younger than 18. Symptoms correspond with the part of the central nervous system that is being attacked.
Visual Symptoms
Eye-related symptoms are often the earliest signs of MS in a child. An especially frightening symptom is the sudden loss of vision in one eye. This is due to inflammation of the optic nerve. Double vision or nystagmus (a rapid back-and-forth shaking of the eyes) also may be an initial symptom of multiple sclerosis in children.
Abnormal Sensation
Children with MS may complain of strange sensations such as tingling, burning, or itching in their legs, hands, and feet. The face also is an area that may be involved in these abnormal sensations.
Weakness and Ataxia
Weakness of one side of the body, along with a lack of muscle coordination and clumsiness (ataxia), are some of the most common symptoms in MS.
Other Symptoms
More general, non-specific symptoms that may occur in children with MS are headache and fatigue. Urinary problems may occur as a result of a condition called "neurogenic bladder".
References
- "UpToDate"; Denise S. Basow; 2010
- "Kliegman: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics"; Robert M. Kliegman MD; 2007
- "Adams and Victor's Principles of Neurology"; Allan H. Ropper and Martin A. Samuels; 2009
