Epstein-Barr Virus and Multiple Sclerosis: Why Early and Late Treatment Matters

MS multiple sclerosis treatment phoenix neurologist

At Center for Neurology and Spine (CNSofAZ.com), we are committed to staying at the forefront of neurological research and treatment. New studies continue to strengthen the link between Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and multiple sclerosis (MS).

Two recent research articles—one from Neuroscience News and another published in PNAS—highlight groundbreaking discoveries that could shape the future of MS diagnosis and therapy (Neuroscience News, PNAS). Understanding how EBV triggers MS and how early intervention may change disease progression is critical for neurologists in Phoenix, AZ, and beyond.

The Epstein-Barr Virus and Its Role in Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath, a protective covering around nerve fibers in the central nervous system (CNS). This leads to inflammation, nerve damage, and progressively worsening symptoms.

For years, researchers have suspected that EBV, a common virus that infects over 90% of the global population, plays a role in triggering MS. The new studies provide further evidence that EBV is not just correlated with MS—it may be a major cause.