[Prospective evaluation of the effectiveness of high doses of methylprednisolone in multiple sclerosis].

The aim of the reported study was an assessment of the effectiveness of high doses of methylprednisolone in the treatment of active exacerbation and its effect on the natural course of multiple sclerosis. The study was carried out on 24 patients with clinically certain disease, who were divided, according to the treatment given to them, into two subgroups: treated with methylprednisolone and treated with prednisone. The treatment was conducted by the double blind method. The statistical analysis of the results obtained in this material showed that in patients with acute and severe exacerbation of the disease methylprednisolone administration in high doses caused a rapid regression of paralysis and paresis and improved motor efficiency. However, an evaluation of the results after a year from treatment termination showed in both subgroups a progression of clinical changes and increased motor deficiency. This suggests that treatment with corticosteroids has no significant effect on the course of multiple sclerosis.