Approximately 30 people affected by multiple sclerosis attended a recent seminar in Schwalmstadt, Germany, where a new treatment option was discussed.
A seminar hosted by Hephata-MVZ on February 20, 2026, brought together around 30 patients and their families to learn about the latest advancements in multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment and research. The event provided a forum for education and open discussion with medical professionals.
Presentations were given by Dr. Sirous Javidi, a neurologist specializing in sleep medicine and epileptology; Olga Pugach, a neurologist; and Andrea Mangold, a specialized nurse for multiple sclerosis. Attendees were also given ample opportunity for individual questions and exchange, according to event organizers. Understanding MS and its varied presentation is crucial for improving quality of life for those living with the condition.
Understanding the Complexities of MS
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. “The special – and problematic – thing about this disease is that our own immune system, which normally protects us from infections, directs itself against the body’s own structures,” explained Dr. Javidi. Specifically, the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, which is comparable to the insulation of an electrical cable. Damage to this protective layer disrupts the transmission of nerve signals.
You’ll see two main forms of MS: relapsing-remitting MS, which accounts for 85 percent of cases, and progressive MS, affecting around 15 percent of patients. Diagnosis involves neurological examinations, MRI scans of the brain and spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and nerve conduction studies. Researchers are also now measuring neurofilament light chains in the blood, a biomarker that can indicate nerve damage even before it’s visible on an MRI scan, according to Dr. Javidi.
Following diagnosis, an individualized therapy plan is developed for each patient, based on three pillars: acute relapse therapy with high-dose corticosteroids, long-term disease-modifying therapy to prevent new relapses, and symptomatic treatment for individual symptoms such as spasticity, pain, or bladder problems.
New Tablet Offers Hope for Progressive MS
Ongoing research is also yielding promising results. “Tolebrutinib is the first tablet specifically developed for progressive MS. This is a major step forward, as this form of the disease has historically been very difficult to treat. Approval is expected in spring 2026 – in just a few weeks. We will then be able to utilize the medication promptly in our practice,” said Dr. Javidi.
Further research is focused on cell therapies, which involve removing a patient’s own immune cells, genetically reprogramming them in the lab, and then returning them to the patient. These modified cells can then specifically switch off the misguided immune cells that cause MS. Though, this research is still in its early stages. Another area of investigation involves actively repairing the myelin sheath and restoring damaged nerve fibers to functionality.
Olga Pugach’s presentation, “MS – psychological and neurological accompanying symptoms,” focused on depression, chronic fatigue, and cognitive impairment, which affect a significant number of people with MS. According to her presentation, 50 percent of MS patients experience depression, 30 to 80 percent experience chronic fatigue, and 25 to 57 percent experience cognitive deficits.
Depression occurs in 12 percent of patients within the first three years after an MS diagnosis, with women being more frequently affected than men. Factors contributing to depression include processing the illness, social isolation, and sleep disturbances, as well as genetic factors. Psychotherapeutic and medication-based therapies are available.
Cognitive Impairment Can Significantly Impact Daily Life
“This doesn’t refer to the tiredness everyone feels sometimes, but to a fatigue that cannot be alleviated by rest,” explained Olga Pugach. It appears suddenly, regardless of sleep, and is the most common symptom of MS. 36 percent of patients are affected in the early stages of the disease.
“Cognitive deficits often have more negative effects on daily life than physical symptoms. They are also often unrelated to physical limitations caused by MS,” Pugach noted. These deficits primarily affect processing speed, working memory, attention, impulse control, and problem-solving. “Early intervention can slow down progression.” Physical and mental activity also have a positive effect.
Andrea Mangold, a specialized nurse for multiple sclerosis, also addressed this point. She manages the MS counseling center and reported on the center’s free information and counseling services. The center provides information on the causes, symptoms, course, and medications of MS, as well as advice on issues related to work and private life, and the prerequisites or side effects of therapies.
The MS counseling center at Hephata-MVZ offers appointments on Mondays from 8 a.m. To 2 p.m. And Tuesdays through Thursdays from 8 a.m. To 4 p.m., as well as by appointment (Tel. 06691/182029, Mobile 01724937606 and by email: [email protected]). The next doctor-patient seminar will take place on Tuesday, June 2, from 4 p.m. To 6 p.m., on the topic of Parkinson’s disease. Participation is free and does not require registration. A free snack with finger food and cold drinks will be provided after the presentations. Further information is available from the MVZ at Tel. 06691/18-2003 and Email: [email protected]
