Multiple sclerosis (
MS), also known as
disseminated sclerosis or
encephalomyelitis disseminata, is a
demyelinating disease in which the
insulating covers of
nerve cells in the
brain and
spinal cord are damaged. This damage disrupts the ability of parts of the nervous system to communicate, resulting in a wide range of
signs and
symptoms, including physical,
mental, and sometimes psychiatric problems. MS takes several forms, with new symptoms either occurring in isolated attacks (relapsing forms) or building up over time (progressive forms). Between attacks, symptoms may disappear completely; however, permanent neurological problems often occur, especially as the disease advances.