Typically causes exacerbations and remissions in various locations in the CNS (dissemination in space and time). Common symptoms: visual disturbances (diplopia, blurring, field cuts or scotoma), spastic paraparesis, and bladder disturbances.
relapsing-remitting episodes of acute worsening with recovery and a stable course between relapses.
Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis
primary progressive gradual, nearly continuous neurologic deterioration from the onset of symptoms progressive relapsing gradual neurologic deterioration from the onset of symptoms, but with subsequent superimposed relapses
Relapsing-remitting MS is the most common pattern (≥ 70%) at the onset, and has the best response to therapy, but > 50% of cases eventually become secondary progressive MS. Only 10% have primary progressive MS, and these patients tend to be older at onset (40–60 years) and frequently develop progressive myelopathy.
Progressive relapsing MS is very uncommon. Deficits present > 6 months usually persist.