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History & Cause of
MS
In 1860, French neurologist, Jean-Martin
Charcot, first discovered MS in a patient that he was examining, Dr.
Moxon, a neurologist in England recognized MS in 1873, and in the
United States Dr. Seguin recognized the illness in 1878. Many
aspects of the illness were observed by the end of the century. One
of which was the fact that the disease was more common in women than
in men.
In the 1900's, research began to grow complex. In
1919, for the first time, abnormalities in spinal fluid were noted.
Dr. Edgar Adrian established techniques necessary to study nerve
activity and began experimentation in this regard. During this
period, new methods and understandings emerged such as the actual
composition of myelin.
In 1947, Dr. Kabat of Columbia
University identified abnormal immunologic proteins in the spinal
fluid and noted a pattern called oligoclonal bands. In the 1950's,
neurologists began to more easily identify MS, its symptoms, and
signs. It's important to note since those early days that
significant strides have been made with research, treatment, and how
MS is viewed.
MS: The Cause
The cause of
MS still remains a mystery, although various "clues" have been
investigated such as climate, age, genetics, immunology, and
viruses. To date, researchers have not found a causal factor. Some
researchers believe that there are multiple issues at hand
concerning the cause of the illness, while others believe that is is
one identifiable factor.
MS: Which Organs Effect
Specific Functions
The brain consists of two main
areas: A pair of hemispheres on top and the brainstem on the bottom.
The hemispheres are connected together by nerve fibers called the
Corpus Callosum. Each hemisphere is divided into four
lobes.
The Frontal Lobes are used for planning, judgment and
movement, the Temporal Lobes are used for memory, the Parietal Lobes
are used for senses, and the Occipital Lobes are used for vision.
Deep within the hemispheres lies the Limbic System, which is
responsible for our emotions. The brainstem carries impulses down to
the nerves into the spinal cord. Just behind the brainstem is the
Cerebellum, which controls our sense of balance and coordination. MS
effects the brain and central nervous system, which includes the
spinal cord area. |
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