P.070 Characteristics of patients presenting to a multiple sclerosis clinic in Hamilton, Ontario

Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease which is highly prevalent in Canada. To date limited data exists on the characteristics of this population in Ontario. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of initial patient presentations to a MS clinic in 2011. Initial and follow-up consult notes were reviewed. Patients with a previous MS diagnosis were excluded. Results: 81 patients presented to the clinic for the first time in 2011. 41 were given alternative diagnoses (non-MS). Of the remaining 40 patients (MS group), 9 had clinically or radiologically isolated syndrome and 8 were in a progressive phase of MS. The mean age of presentation was 22 (MS group) and 47 (non-MS group). The most common initial symptom in both groups was a sensory disturbance. The mean initial EDSS in the MS group was 1.75 (0-6.5). In the MS group only 35% were put on disease modifying treatments. The most common reasons for exclusion of treatment were progressive disease phase, clinically or radiologically isolated syndrome, and unclear diagnosis. In the non-MS group, the most common diagnoses were non-specific MRI findings, transverse myelitis and peripheral nerve or muscular diagnoses. Conclusions: This retrospective review has outlined the characteristics of a MS population in Ontario.