MS risk 'increased by infertility treatments'

Female patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) could experience a worsening of their symptoms if they have fertility treatment, according to a new study.

A team led by Dr Jorge Correale at the Institute for Neurological Research in Buenos Aires recruited 46 people, with some healthy, some who were MS patients and another group made up of women with MS who were undergoing fertility treatment.

It was found that 75 per cent of MS patients experienced an exacerbation of their symptoms after being given infertility drugs, while relapses were reported following 58 per cent of the cycles.

The study - published in the Annals of Neurology - suggested sex and ovulation hormones alter the body's immune response by increasing production of pro-inflammatory molecules among other factors.

According to the World Health Organization, MS affects 2.5 million people worldwide.

"Neurologists should be aware of possible disease exacerbation so they may discuss the benefits and risks with MS patients," said Dr Correale.

Researchers at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have also recently found a link between vitamin D deficiency and exacerbations of MS symptoms.

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