MS Differential Diagnosis Update

The MS Differential Diagnosis Consortium (MSDDC) has published an updated comprehensive guide to differentiate multiple sclerosis (MS) from potential mimics. This guide, developed by experts in the field, aims to support the diagnostic process, allowing for faster and more accurate identification of MS.

Read article here: Differential diagnosis of suspected multiple sclerosis: an updated consensus approach

Diagnosing MS can be challenging due to the existence of other disorders that exhibit clinical, laboratory, or imaging findings similar to those of MS. To ensure an accurate diagnosis, it is important for clinicians to consider these alternative explanations before confirming MS. The MSDDC mobilized experts from around the world to address this issue and update guidance surrounding the diagnostic process. 

The MSDDC, sponsored by ACTRIMS, is chaired by Andrew Solomon, M.D. (Department of Neurological Sciences, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont), co-chaired by Jeffrey Cohen, M.D. (Mellen MS Center, Cleveland Clinic), and also includes representatives from the MS International Federation, Consortium of MS Centers, and the European Committee for Treatment and Research in MS (ECTRIMS).

The MSDDC has also produced guidelines for diagnostic considerations in pediatric and late-onset populations, different geographic locations, and among underrepresented populations: 

Differential Diagnosis of Suspected Multiple Sclerosis in Pediatric and Late-Onset Populations

Differential diagnosis of suspected multiple sclerosis: considerations in people from minority ethnic and racial backgrounds in North America, northern Europe, and Australasia

Differential diagnosis of suspected multiple sclerosis: global health considerations