There are a variety of demyelinating diseases. Many of these types also have subtypes or rarer variants.

Some affect the nerves in your brain and spinal cord, called your central nervous system. Others affect the nerves in your body beyond your brain and spinal cord, called your peripheral nervous system.

The most common demyelinating diseases include: 

• Multiple sclerosis: Most common of these diseases. It can affect all body systems with variable symptoms. Diagnosis is based on an abnormal MRI of the brain. 
• Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody associated disease (MOGAD): Seen more in children, often can involve the eyes and spinal cord, caused by an antibody against MOG. 
• Neuromyelitis optica (Devic’s disease): Causes the immune system to attack the optic nerve, brain stem, and spinal cord. 
• Optic neuritis: Inflammation of the optic which relays signals from the eye to the brain. 
• Transverse myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord. 
• Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM): A form of demyelinating disease that causes seizures and confusion. It can potentially be a precursor to the diseases described above. 
• Autoimmune encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain that leads to abnormal behaviors, seizures, and other symptoms.

We also evaluate and treat other rare disorders in our clinic, including neurosarcoidosis, Behcet's disease, central nervous system (CNS) vasculitis, and many more.

Demyelinating diseases can cause a range of symptoms depending on the type of disease. Please seek medical care if you experience any of these symptoms lasting longer than 24 hours.

Possible Symptoms

Symptoms of demyelinating diseases may include: 

• Vision changes, such as blurriness, double vision, or vision loss
• Balance and coordination issues
• Stiff or weak muscles
• Movement problems, such as difficulty walking or sudden, uncontrolled movements
• Sensory changes, such as numbness, tingling, itching, or pain 
• Intense bouts of vertigo
• Bladder and bowel problems, such as frequent urination, incontinence, or constipation
• Sexual challenges or dysfunction

With many demyelinating diseases, your body’s immune system attacks myelin or the cells that create myelin. But what causes this autoimmune response is not always known. Additionally, causes often differ for each disease.

We offer in-depth testing for demyelinating diseases. You can rely on our team of neurologists, neuro-ophthalmologists, and radiologists for an accurate diagnosis.

Our team of subspecialists use an array of tests to diagnose demyelinating disease and gauge response to treatment. They include: 

You can find advanced and specialized treatment for many types of demyelinating diseases at UC Davis Health. Our compassionate team is here for you and your loved ones through every challenge. Your treatment plan may include: