Studying Autonomic Nervous System Changes in Adults with Relapsing-Remitting and Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how the autonomic nervous system is involved in patients with relapsing-remitting and primary progressive multiple sclerosis. The study aims to understand if characteristics of autonomic dysfunction can help improve treatment for symptoms like blood pressure changes and temperature control issues that affect patients lives and rehabilitation. It also explores how nerve fiber impairments relate to disease severity and progression, and whether different types of multiple sclerosis show distinct patterns of nerve involvement. Participants will be hospitalized at the Maugeri Clinical Institute of Telese Terme for rehabilitation treatment. They will undergo tests including cardiovascular reflex testing and a skin biopsy to measure sensory and autonomic nerve fibers. Clinical scales assessing autonomic symptoms and pain related to small fiber neuropathy will also be used. The study compares findings between relapsing-remitting and primary progressive multiple sclerosis groups, as well as with control data. During the study, participants will have cardiovascular reflex and sudomotor function tests at recruitment. Skin biopsies will quantify peripheral nerve fibers, and patients will complete questionnaires about their symptoms. Researchers will monitor nerve function and symptom severity to better understand autonomic involvement in multiple sclerosis. The trial began in 2021 and is expected to end in 2027, with no specified maximum age for participation.

Definition of Autonomic Nervous System Involvement in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis