Definition: Describes a type of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in which few relapses occur. These relapses tend to produce sensory symptoms, which go away and leave very little or no residual damage or disability.
It is thought that 10% to 20% of people with MS have benign MS, but it is impossible to predict who will follow this course. It is also estimated that half (or more) of these people will eventually have MS progression and no longer have benign MS.
There is also debate on the topic of exactly how to define benign MS, but some researchers propose a definition of benign MS as people who have had MS for at least 10 years and who have an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 2.0 or less.
Many neurologists and researchers do not use the term "benign MS," as there is so much debate and controversy over the exact definition and numbers of people that could be classified as having it.
