Features of multiple sclerosis – Medicine MCQ
Which of the following is false regarding Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
A. More common in women and age of onset is between 20-40 years of age
B. Risk factors include vitamin D deficiency and cigarette smoking
C. Pathological hallmark is axonal degeneration
D. HLA DRB1 in MHC class II is associated with 10% of disease risk
Correct answer: C. Pathological hallmark is axonal degeneration
Explanation:
- Multiple sclerosis is an auto immune disease of central neural system with a relapsing and remitting or progressive course.
- The pathologic hallmark of disease is demyelination.
- Myelin specific antibodies are present on degenerating myelin sheaths.
- Surviving oligodendrocytes partially remyelinate surviving axons, which are called as shadow plaques.
Reference: Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th edition, p2661
