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Multiple sclerosis is still regarded primarily as a disease of the white matter. However, recent evidence suggests that there may be significant involvement of gray matter. Here, we have used magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy in vivo and histopathology postmortem to estimate thalamic neuronal loss in patients with multiple sclerosis. Our results show that neuronal loss in multiple sclerosis can be substantial (30-35% reduction). We conclude that a neurodegenerative pathology may make a major contribution to the genesis of symptoms in multiple sclerosis.

Original publication

DOI

10.1002/ana.10326

Type

Journal article

Journal

Ann Neurol

Publication Date

11/2002

Volume

52

Pages

650 - 653

Keywords

Adult, Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Female, Humans, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, Male, Middle Aged, Multiple Sclerosis, Chronic Progressive, Nerve Degeneration, Thalamus