Ten-Year Follow-Up of Radiologically Isolated Syndromes

Radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS) refers to MRI abnormalities compatible with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the absence of clinical symptoms to support the MS diagnosis (NEJM JW Neurol Mar 2011 and Neurology 2011; 76:686). To determine long-term risk for conversion to MS based on clinical and imaging features, investigators analyzed data of 451 people from 5 different countries who were diagnosed with RIS at a mean age of 37 years.

The probability of a first demyelinating clinical event was 51% at 10 years. Oligoclonal bands, spinal cord lesions, infratentorial lesions, and younger age at RIS diagnosis were positive predictors. Primary progressive MS was diagnosed in 12%. Treatment with a disease-modifying therapy was pursued in 16%; treat…