Opinion
Video
Multiple Sclerosis Onset and Age-Related Factors That Shape Treatment Approaches
Author(s):
Ahmed Obeidat, MD, PhD, Riley Bove, MD, Stephen Krieger, MD, and Erin Longbrake, MD, PhD, discuss the nuances of treatment selection based on age of onset of MS.
This is a video synopsis/summary of a panel discussion involving Ahmed Obeidat, MD, PhD; Riley Bove, MD; Stephen Krieger, MD; and Erin Longbrake, MD, PhD.
In the discussion, the topic of treating multiple sclerosis (MS) in older individuals is explored. There's recognition that chronological age alone doesn't determine treatment decisions, as individuals' health status and disease mechanisms vary. The importance of personalizing treatment approaches is emphasized, taking into account individual disease activity and underlying mechanisms.
While some older patients may have minimal disease activity despite their age, others may still exhibit significant inflammatory activity. Therefore, decisions about initiating highly effective disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) should be based on individualized assessments rather than age alone.
To guide treatment decisions, clinicians consider patients' recent disease activity, such as the timing of relapses and new lesions. Keeping track of these factors over time allows for a more nuanced understanding of disease progression and informs treatment strategies.
Overall, the conversation underscores the need for a personalized approach to MS treatment, where decisions are based on individual disease characteristics and recent disease activity rather than chronological age alone.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by NeurologyLive editorial staff.
