Based
on the severity and the come and go pattern of the symptoms,
MS is grouped into four different categories.
They are:
1)
Benign (Least Severe):
This
is the least severe type of MS. It includes a few, mild
early attacks and complete clearing of symptoms. There
is minimal or no disability to a person with Benign MS.
Approximately 20% of diagnosed cases are Benign.
2)
Relapsing/Remitting (Somewhat Severe):
This
type of MS means a person experiences more frequent, early
attacks and less complete clearing, but shows long periods
of stability. Some degree of disability is usually present.
Approximately 25% of diagnosed cases fall into this category.
3)
Secondary Chronic Progressive (Moderate
to Seriously Severe):
More
attacks, more often and fewer and less complete remissions
after the attack. The disease increases in effect and
is greater than seen in the previous forms. The MS may
continue to worsen for many years and then level off with
moderate to severe disability. Nearly 40% of all diagnosed
cases are secondary chronic progressive.
4)
Primary Progressive (Extremely Severe):
The
is the most severe form of multiple sclerosis. The onset
is quite severe and the course is slowly progressive without
any clearing of symptoms. This is also the least common
form of MS with only 15% of diagnosed cases.
