RESUMO
Research demonstrates that 3.5% to 5% of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) present before the age of 18 years. MS can present in early childhood through adolescence and must be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients with motor impairment, sensory changes, and cognitive disability. The diagnosis of early-onset MS is based on findings from a complete history and physical examination along with brain and spine imaging. The purpose of this article is to review recent literature on early-onset MS and offer suggestions or clinical practice in the identification and management of patients with this debilitating disease.
Assuntos
Esclerose Múltipla/enfermagem , Debilidade Muscular/enfermagem , Neurite Óptica/enfermagem , Adolescente , Idade de Início , Anti-Inflamatórios/uso terapêutico , Anticonvulsivantes/uso terapêutico , Antiparkinsonianos/uso terapêutico , Encéfalo/patologia , Estimulantes do Sistema Nervoso Central/uso terapêutico , Criança , Progressão da Doença , Fadiga/enfermagem , Feminino , Guias como Assunto , Humanos , Incidência , Imageamento por Ressonância Magnética , Masculino , Esclerose Múltipla/diagnóstico , Esclerose Múltipla/terapia , Debilidade Muscular/diagnóstico , Debilidade Muscular/terapia , Profissionais de Enfermagem , Neurite Óptica/diagnóstico , Neurite Óptica/terapiaRESUMO
Optic neuritis is frequently the first clinical sign of multiple sclerosis (MS). Study results indicate that methylprednisolone pulse therapy reduces the rate of development of MS over a two year period. Patients also experience quicker recovery of vision. This short duration therapy presents immediate and intense nursing care challenges. Coordination of care between three departments at the University of Michigan Medical Center enables many patients to complete IV [intravenous] pulse therapy at home. Although coordination is challenging for providers, ambulatory care and home care benefit patients and their families with potential healthcare cost savings.