Primary progressive multiple sclerosis
Primary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) is a form of MS in which the disease is progressive from the start. Symptoms such as muscle weakness, leg dragging, and stiffness become worse, and nerve function deteriorates steadily, though this occurs at different rates in different people.
Primary progressive MS occurs in just a small number of people with MS. In these people, the illness may be severe from the start with a quick progression of neurological problems over several months. There are no periods when symptoms do not occur (remission).
There is no cure for MS. But treatment may help slow the progression.
Current as of: August 25, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Karin M. Lindholm DO - Neurology & E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Colin Chalk MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology