Using Adult Criteria to Diagnose Pediatric MS

The 2010 McDonald criteria for multiple sclerosis (MS) simplified the imaging criteria in adults who present with a typical demyelinating event (JW Neurol Jan 25 2011). The 2010 criteria maintained high sensitivity and specificity while reducing the required number of T2 lesions and permitting the MS diagnosis when there are “clinically silent,” simultaneous gadolinium-enhancing and nonenhancing lesions.

Investigators have now tested the 2010 criteria in children younger than 16 who presented with an acute demyelinating event at 23 centers. Participants were enrolled within 90 days of symptom onset and followed for a mean 4.2 years. All had magnetic resonance imaging scans at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months later; many had subsequent annual…