A journey with no roadmap-The need for validated criteria of the MS prodrome.

BACKGROUND

A growing body of compelling evidence has emerged to validate a set of signs and symptoms that indicates the onset of disease before more typical signs and symptoms present to fulfill a diagnosis of MS. On 24 June 2021, a group of international researchers, patient advocates, and Society representatives led by Professors Helen Tremlett (University of British Columbia) and Ruth Ann Marrie (University of Manitoba) convened virtually for a workshop.

OBJECTIVE

Identify key gaps in knowledge, opportunities, and research priorities regarding the prodromal stage of MS.

METHODS

The group developed a new framework for MS that includes the stage of early signs and symptoms of MS-and outlined a roadmap to guide future research, with the "goal of preventing the progression to onset of typical symptoms of MS in those who present during the prodromal stage of MS".

RESULTS

If high-risk individuals in the early stages of MS can be identified with a high degree of certainty, there is an opportunity to intervene and minimize the risk of progressing to typical MS symptoms and a diagnosis of MS.

CONCLUSION

Standardized criteria must be developed, validated, and point of intervention found to better recognize, better diagnose, and better treat MS.