Evaluation of some biochemical variables in patients with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system most often chronic; it is an autoimmune disorder and is neurodegenerative in nature. The impact of dietary inadequacy on MS pathophysiology has been studied with regards to serum levels of key micronutrients such as vitamin D, C, B12, folic acid (B9), magnesium, zinc, copper, calcium and potassium among others. The results indicate that all the above nutrients are far much lower in MS patients than they are in normal people with the exception of iron which was increased at the probability level of (P≤0.05). Immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D deficiency have been directly linked to both susceptibility and severity of MS and low levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid can potentially lead to ineffective myelin production and high levels of homocysteine that can stimulate neurodegeneration. Magnesium, zinc and calcium deficiency may inhibit the functioning of the neurons and the immune system. Copper, which is essential in treating oxidative stress and mitochondrial dynamics, is usually low in MS, which may exaggerate the destruction of cells. There is also the common reduction in potassium levels, which is an important constituent in neuronal excitability. In another interesting twist, iron deficiency does not exist, but aberrant brain iron deposition is highly common in MS and can stimulate the occurrence of oxidative damage and inflammation. Those conclusions indicate the significance of monitoring and managing the micronutrient deficiencies in patients with MS as one of the components of the overall approach to treatment. Disease progression could be affected and patient outcomes enhanced with the optimization of nutrient status. Additional research is required to prove the existence of causality between the components and the examination of the treatment capabilities of selective supplementation.