Challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of CNS demyelinating disorders in Zambia:

Multiple Sclerosis Journal – Experimental, Translational and Clinical

Altaf Saadi¹  Dhanashri P Miskin²  Omar K Siddiqi²  Igor J Koralnik²  Jacob A Sloane³  Laston Chikoya⁴ 

[1] Department of Neurology, Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, USA;Division of Neuro-Immunology, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, USA;Neurosurgical Unit, Department of Surgery and Clinical Services, University Teaching Hospital, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Zambia;Partners Neurology Residency, Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, USA

关键词: Demyelination;    multiple sclerosis;    neuromyelitis optica (NMO);    disease-modifying therapies;   

DOI  :  10.1177/2055217316657117

学科分类：医学（综合）

来源: Sage Journals

【 摘 要 】

Demyelinating disease occurs in a population of black adult Zambians whose genetic and environmental risk factors for multiple sclerosis are thought to be rare. The diagnosis of demyelinating disease was based predominantly on compatible clinical history and neurologic exam findings, and in some cases, more definitely established by cerebrospinal fluid exam and imaging findings. When available, laboratory studies excluded other known causes of CNS demyelination. Timely evaluation and treatment with disease-modifying therapies was related to the patient’s employment status. Lack of financial means to go abroad was a major hurdle in a patient’s ability to receive treatment. Significant barriers often prohibit timely diagnosis and prevent proper management of these patients.

【 授权许可】

CC BY-NC