Demyelination

Definition

Demyelination is the process by which the myelin sheath, a protective covering of nerve fibers, is damaged or destroyed. This can lead to impaired transmission of nerve impulses and various neurological symptoms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Demyelination is a hallmark of multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system.
2. Common symptoms of demyelination include muscle weakness, coordination problems, and visual disturbances.
3. Certain drugs used to treat multiple sclerosis aim to slow down or prevent further demyelination.
4. Inflammation is often a trigger for demyelination as immune cells mistakenly attack the myelin sheath.
5. Advanced imaging techniques like MRI are commonly used to detect areas of demyelination in the brain and spinal cord.

Review Questions

• What is the primary cause of impaired nerve function in demyelinating diseases?
• Which autoimmune disorder is most commonly associated with demyelination?
• How do certain pharmacological treatments for multiple sclerosis work in relation to demyelination?

Related terms

Myelin Sheath:

A fatty layer that surrounds and protects nerve fibers, facilitating efficient electrical impulse conduction.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation and progressive damage to the central nervous system, leading to symptoms like muscle weakness and vision problems.

Neuroinflammation:

The inflammation of nervous tissue, which can contribute to conditions such as multiple sclerosis through mechanisms like demyelination.