[Multiple sclerosis--disclosing the diagnosis. Attitude of patients: when? How? Disclose at all?].

MS patient members of the German Multiple Sclerosis Society were asked about their opinions concerning time and circumstances of getting to know the diagnosis, based on their personal experiences. Citations from 126 answers to a questionnaire, which had been published in the newsletter of the society, are presented to illustrate typical statements. Two thirds of the patients insisted on being informed about the diagnosis as early and as extensively as possible. One third, however, was more reluctant and stated that extensive information about the diagnosis should be timed individually depending on expected development of the disease and disabilities. Information should be extensive, constructive, and tailored to the individual needs of each patient so that he could deal more effectively with his disease. Most contributions voiced severe criticism as to the practice of information experienced. The study was initiated to prepare a more systematic approach to a field which has not been investigated to a degree matching its importance and impact in everyday neurological practice.