ACTRIMS 2022 | Aging-related mechanisms in MS

Burcu Zeydan, MD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, gives an overview of the effects of age on multiple sclerosis (MS) prognosis. The progression from relapsing to progressive MS, which can result in severe disability, predominantly occurs in patients during their 50s. Age-dependent MS also manifests in terms of deterioration of white matter, an increased number of smoldering lesions as well as telomeric and spinal cord atrophy. Immunosenescence additionally occurs, which results in more frequent relapses, highlighting the role age plays in MS prognosis. This interview took place at the ACTRIMS Forum 2022 in West Palm Beach, Florida.