Highlights
- •Little is known about the coexistence of MS with other diseases of aging, such as AD
- •We discuss the epidemiology, diagnosis, and pathophysiology of MS and AD
- •A literature search found 24 cases with both MS and AD, but no epidemiological study
- •AD was observed in both relapsing-onset and progressive forms of MS
- •We highlight a major gap in our knowledge of these common neurological conditions
ABSTRACT
Background
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) are living longer than ever and will likely face
the same age-related diseases as other seniors; however, there is strikingly little
information on the coexistence of MS with many common diseases of aging. In particular,
little appears to be known about the coexistence of MS with Alzheimer's disease (AD),
the most common form of dementia.
Methods
In this review, we explore what is known about the coexistence of MS and AD, including
a focused literature search to identify any reports of individuals with both MS and
AD (PubMed, to May 2017). We also discuss the wider epidemiology, diagnosis, and pathophysiology
of MS and AD.
Results
In total, we found 24 individuals with pathological features of both MS and AD described
as case series or reports (published between 1976–2014), but no epidemiological or
population-based studies, aside from one conference proceeding (2011). Comorbid MS
and AD was reported in a broad range of MS disease courses including relapsing-remitting,
primary progressive, secondary progressive and so-called ‘benign.’ Despite the clear
diagnostic challenges involved, these individual case reports provide evidence that
AD and MS can coexist in the same person.
Conclusion
In summary, we highlight a major knowledge gap in our understanding of two potentially
common neurological conditions. With the ageing population, and an estimated 2.3 million
people living with MS and 46 million with AD or other dementias worldwide, it will
become increasingly important to recognize and understand how to manage individuals
with these complex comorbid conditions.
Keywords
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Article Info
Publication History
Published online: October 27, 2018
Accepted:
October 26,
2018
Received in revised form:
August 21,
2018
Received:
April 18,
2018
Identification
Copyright
© 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
