Demographic patterns of Sri Lankan patients with multiple sclerosis – and a regional comparison

Retrospective data from a series of Sri Lankan patients (n=35) with multiple sclerosis (MS) is described. This is believed to be the largest such case series with a descriptive analysis of data regarding the demographic patterns of MS in the country. Subsequently the Sri Lankan data are compared with similar series from India and Pakistan. The clinical spectrum of MS in Sri Lanka seems to be similar to that of the region with regards to age at onset, gender, dominant clinical presentations, and progression and disability patterns. Pyramidal, sensory and optic nerve involvement dominated the initial presentation while optico-spinal Devic’s type being rare. Majority of the cases were of relapsing and remitting type. A significant proportion of patients had high EDSS scores with considerable disability. Usage of disease modifying agents (DMAs) was low across the region. In conclusion western type of MS seems to be the common form of the disease in Sri Lanka and in the region.