title: The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and the clinical subtypes.
abstract: The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) requires objective findings referable to the central nervous system. A wide differential diagnosis often has to be considered. Magnetic resonance imaging and electrophysiologic and cerebrospinal fluid studies can all contribute to an early definitive diagnosis. The McDonald diagnostic criteria for MS (2005) are the currently recognized MS diagnostic criteria. The clinical subtypes of MS and their diagnosis are discussed in this article. Being informed of the diagnosis may be a stressful experience for the patient and this is also dealt with.
authors.affiliation: Departments of Medicine, Neurology, and Community and Family Practice, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3184 DUMC, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
authors.forename: Barrie J
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Hurwitz