A patient has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) for 10 years and has a history of 3 periods of neurologic dysfunction lasting several weeks separated by long periods of full recovery. In the past 6 months, the patient has had a prolonged period of neurologic dysfunction without remission. The nurse understands that the patient may have which MS subtype?
A) Primary progressive MS
B) Progressive-relapsing MS
C) Relapsing-remitting MS
D) Secondary progressive MS

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Secondary progressive MS occurs when a patient with relapsing-remitting MS develops steadily worsening dysfunction with or without plateaus or acute exacerbations, or minor remissions. Within 10 to 20 years of onset, about 50% of patients with MS will develop this type. Primary progressive MS occurs when symptoms grow progressively more intense from the onset. Progressive-relapsing MS is similar to primary progressive MS, but with acute exacerbations imposed on the steadily worsening symptoms. Relapsing-remitting MS is the most common initial presentation, which is characterized by recurrent, clearly defined episodes of symptoms with periods of remission with relapse occurring approximately twice every 3 years.

A Patient Has Been Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for 10