The aim of the symposium entitled “New Insights in the Pathophysiology and Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Spasticity and Related Symptoms” was to explore current trends relating to spasticity, one of the most troubling symptoms associated with the disease. This satellite symposium was part of the European Committee for Treatment and Research In Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) Congress held in Gothenburg, 13–16 October 2010.
Multiple sclerosis is a highly expressive disease from the symptomatic point of view that runs a progressive disabling course. In recent times we have seen a wealth of information presented on disease-modifying treatments and the benefits that they can provide in terms of a reduction in the number and severity of relapses. However, severe symptoms are a reality of everyday life for the majority of MS sufferers. Muscle spasticity is one of the more common and most disabling of these symptoms and it is often painful, reduces mobility, disturbs sleeping patterns and can lead to individuals requiring extensive nursing care. In this satellite symposium our expert panel of speakers will provide an insight into the science of muscle spasticity as it pertains to MS.
Judith Haas, Head of the Department of Neurology at Jewish Hospital Berlin, (Germany) reviews recent advances in pathogenetic mechanisms and how they impact the assessment and treatment of MS. This will be followed by a detailed discussion of endocannabinoid pathways and the role they play in MS-related muscular dysfunction, presented by Vincenzo Di Marzo, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples (Italy). Finally, the most recent clinical evidence with Sativex®, an endocannabinoid system modulator, is presented by Patrick Vermersch, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Lille (France).
Current therapies for MS-related spasticity appear to be of limited clinical benefit and there is a clear need for newer treatment alternatives. In a clinical field that is starting to see significant progress, it is important that we maintain the impetus and highlight those areas where scientific clarity is being made or needs to be furthered. In this way we will provide the best treatment options for our patients and we will have a genuine opportunity to improve their functionality, quality of life and overall health status.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
For full financial and competing interests disclosure please see the Contents page.