Sex hormones: A role in the control of multiple sclerosis?

Valentina Tomassini, Carlo Pozzilli

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Several lines of evidence suggest that gender affects the susceptibility and course of multiple sclerosis. A higher disease prevalence, as well as an overall better prognosis, in women than men is observed. This sex dimorphism may be explained by the effect of sex hormones on brain damage and repair mechanisms. Experimental, clinical and MRI evidence confirms a pathogenetic link between sex hormones and multiple sclerosis, also suggesting sex-specific effects of hormones in multiple sclerosis pathology and therapy. A gender-based approach to multiple sclerosis could provide further benefits for its treatment and management.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)857-868
Number of pages12
JournalExpert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
Volume7
Issue number7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2006

Keywords

  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Sex hormones

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology (medical)
  • Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics(all)

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