title: Clinical data bank at the University Department of Neurology, Bern, Switzerland: basis for an epidemiological study of multiple sclerosis in a high prevalence area.
abstract: Clinical and laboratory data for over 1000 patients with definite multiple sclerosis living on prevalence day January 1st, 1986 in the Swiss Canton of Bern, a geographically heterogeneous region, are analysed retrospectively by means of a specially developed computer system. The consequent application of the "Minimal Record of Disability" (MRD) as proposed by the IFMSS forms the basis of data sampling. Details of clinical aspects gained from these records are presented together with an account on the applicability of this system in collaborative epidemiological investigations, for which the now ongoing prospective study based on the aforementioned retrospective one at our Institution may serve as an example.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007256:Information Systems / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013557:Switzerland