Understanding Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis: Clinical Presentation, Diagnostic Criteria, Therapeutic Advances, and Supportive Care Approaches

Authors:

DOI: 10.23880/pnboa-16000210

Volume 11, Issue 1

Abstract

Pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, immune-mediated demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) that accounts for approximately 2–5% of all MS cases. Increasing recognition, improved imaging, and updated diagnostic criteria have facilitated earlier diagnosis. Pediatric MS differs from adult-onset disease in clinical presentation, relapse frequency, and neurodevelopmental impact. Children often present with multifocal neurological deficits and more frequent relapses but demonstrate superior recovery due to enhanced neuroplasticity. Timely diagnosis and initiation of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are critical to prevent irreversible neurological injury and cognitive decline. Recent advances, including high-efficacy B-cell-targeted therapies, Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors, and remyelination strategies, are transforming treatment paradigms. This review summarizes current understanding of pediatric MS, including epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, therapeutic options, supportive care, and future directions.

Keywords: Pediatric multiple sclerosis, demyelination, neuroimmunology, disease-modifying therapy, B-cell therapy, remyelination, cognitive rehabilitation.

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