Immunosuppressive treatment of multiple sclerosis.

This article has reviewed some of the principles of the immune basis of multiple sclerosis and one potential therapy: cyclophosphamide and corticotropin. Although some of the studies with this combination present encouraging findings, these must be carefully evaluated. This approach is still experimental and the long-term effects of therapy are still to be evaluated. The neuroscience nurse has an important place in this research. Not only should the nurse be a critical consumer of the research investigating these protocols, but she must also use unique nursing skills to assist the patient while undergoing the therapy.