Weighting evidence in MS: Obesity and neurodegeneration.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated, neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by central nervous system (CNS) inflammation.[1] The cause of MS is unknown, and there is no cure. Obesity and metabolic syndrome have been linked to more rapid disability progression, and accelerated rates of brain atrophy in people with MS.[2],[3] The pathobiological basis of these relationships remains opaque. The findings of this study are thought-provoking; yet, it is also important to keep in mind that neuroaxonal injury and progressive disability in MS patients may be exacerbated by factors linked to metabolic syndrome that are independent of disease pathobiology. [Extracted from the article]