Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is an autoimmune illness affecting the central nervous system. Patients with MS require specialized attention to their medical, social and psychological needs that only a comprehensive center can provide.

The multidisciplinary team of University of  Florida specialists who practice at Shands at UF is committed to providing advanced care.

About Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects more women than men. Though it can strike at any age, MS is most commonly found in people between the ages of 20 and 40. A virus or a genetic defect, or a combination of both, is believed to be its cause. It is a progressive disease, meaning the damage gets worse over time.

MS is believed to result from damage to the myelin sheath, the protective material that surrounds nerve cells. Inflammation occurs when the body’s own immune cells attack the nervous system. The inflammation then destroys the myelin, leaving multiple areas of scar tissue, called sclerosis.

The inflammation causes nerve impulses to slow down or become blocked, leading to the symptoms of MS. Repeated episodes, or flare-ups, of inflammation can occur along any area of the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms vary, because the location and extent of each attack varies. Episodes can last days, weeks or months and alternate with times of remission, when no symptoms are present.

Treatment

No cure is currently available for multiple sclerosis, but with recent research and technological advances, new treatments are on the horizon. The team of UF specialists practicing at Shands at UF can provide the latest individualized treatment and support strategies, including:

• cognitive therapy and testing
• physical and occupation therapy
• pain management
• infusion services
• neuropsychiatric care
• home care

Click here to access information about clinical trials.

Information

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call the Shands HealthCare Consultation Center at (800) 749-7424 or (352) 265-8000.

Shands at UF Neurological and Neurosurgery services were ranked 44th in the country by U.S.News&World Report. Learn more.

Neurological Services

General Neurology

Memory Disorders

Movement Disorders

Neuromuscular Disorders

Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders

Multiple Sclerosis

Stroke Services

Clinical Trials

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Make an Appointment

To make an appointment or find out more information about neurology services offered at Shands at the University of Florida, please call 352.265.8000 or toll-free 1.800.749.7424

You may also email our Consultation Center (consult@shands.ufl.edu) or use our secure online form.