Which of the following occurs with multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is primarily characterized by the destruction of myelinated axons in the central nervous system (CNS). In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath, which is the protective covering that surrounds nerve fibers. This demyelination disrupts the normal flow of electrical impulses along the nerve cells. The resulting neurological symptoms can vary widely, depending on which part of the CNS is affected.

The process of demyelination leads to the formation of scar tissue (sclerosis) in specific areas of the brain and spinal cord. This condition can cause a range of symptoms, including visual disturbances, muscle weakness, coordination and balance issues, and cognitive changes. The focus on myelin damage distinguishes MS from other neurological conditions that may involve the peripheral nervous system or other mechanisms.

A range of research has identified various contributing factors to MS, including genetic predispositions and environmental triggers, but the hallmark feature is the destruction of the myelin sheath within the CNS, leading to the characteristic clinical manifestations of the disease.