MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS: A RISK FACTOR ANALYSIS IN IRAN

Background. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common acquired demyelinating diseases with geographic variability in both prevalence and incidence. The goal of this study was to review the epidemiologic data and to assess the risk factors for MS in Iran. Methods. From 1997 to 1999, 149 definite cases of MS were selected for study. The disease was confirmed according to clinical information and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings by a neurologist and radiologist. The patients were evaluated by interview and a questionnaire. A control group of 100 sex- and age-matched non-neurologic patients were also enrolled in the study. Results. The male–female ratio was 1:1.2. Among female cases, the disease began in 61% soon after childbirth. Depression was noted in 67% of the patients. Fourteen percent of patients had a history of about one year in the recent war between Iran and Iraq. Fifty percent of patients had a history of viral exanthemas during childhood. Conclusion. MS appears to be prevalent in Iran, necessitating a large cohort study to evaluate a precise risk factor analysis.