The MS Disease Info(Penyakit Pelawak Pepeng)











The Driwan’s  Cybermuseum

special for Mas and his friend in order to open the diesease mystery

Khusu buat Mas pepeng,family and teman-temannya serta para pengemarnya untuk mengungkap misteri penyakit yang dideritanya

Saya salut atas semangat Mas pepeng yang tetap kreatif walaupun menderita penyakit MS

Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis
Classification and external resources

Demyelination by MS. The CD68 colored tissue shows several macrophages in the area of the lesion. Original scale 1:100
ICD10 G35
ICD9 340
OMIM 126200
DiseasesDB 8412
MedlinePlus 000737
eMedicine neuro/228 oph/179 emerg/321 pmr/82 radio/461
MeSH D009103
GeneReviews Multiple Sclerosis Overview

Multiple sclerosis (abbreviated MS, known as disseminated sclerosis or encephalomyelitis disseminata) is an inflammatory disease in which the fatty myelin sheaths around the axons of the brain and spinal cord are damaged, leading to demyelination and scarring as well as a broad spectrum of signs and symptoms.[1] Disease onset usually occurs in young adults, and it is more common in women.[1] It has a prevalence that ranges between 2 and 150 per 100,000.[2] MS was first described in 1868 by Jean-Martin Charcot.[3]

MS affects the ability of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord to communicate with each other effectively. Nerve cells communicate by sending electrical signals called action potentials down long fibers called axons, which are contained within an insulating substance called myelin. In MS, the body’s own immune system attacks and damages the myelin. When myelin is lost, the axons can no longer effectively conduct signals.[4] The name multiple sclerosis refers to scars (scleroses—better known as plaques or lesions) particularly in the white matter of the brain and spinal cord, which is mainly composed of myelin.[3] Although much is known about the mechanisms involved in the disease process, the cause remains unknown. Theories include genetics or infections. Different environmental risk factors have also been found.[4][5]

Almost any neurological symptom can appear with the disease, and often progresses to physical and cognitive disability.[4] MS takes several forms, with new symptoms occurring either in discrete attacks (relapsing forms) or slowly accumulating over time (progressive forms).[6] Between attacks, symptoms may go away completely, but permanent neurological problems often occur, especially as the disease advances.[6]

There is no known cure for multiple sclerosis. Treatments attempt to return function after an attack, prevent new attacks, and prevent disability.[4] MS medications can have adverse effects or be poorly tolerated, and many patients pursue alternative treatments, despite the lack of supporting scientific study. The prognosis is difficult to predict; it depends on the subtype of the disease, the individual patient’s disease characteristics, the initial symptoms and the degree of disability the person experiences as time advances.[7] Life expectancy of people with MS is 5 to 10 years lower than that of the unaffected population.[1]

indonesia version

Multiple sclerosis (disingkat MS, yang dikenal sebagai disebarluaskan sclerosis atau encephalomyelitis disseminata) adalah penyakit inflamasi di mana selubung mielin di sekitar akson lemak otak dan sumsum tulang belakang yang rusak, menyebabkan demielinasi dan jaringan parut serta spektrum yang luas dari tanda-tanda dan gejala [1]. Onset penyakit biasanya terjadi pada dewasa muda, dan lebih umum pada perempuan. [1] Ia memiliki prevalensi yang berkisar antara 2 dan 150 per 100.000. [2] MS pertama kali dijelaskan pada 1868 oleh Jean-Martin Charcot [3].

MS mempengaruhi kemampuan sel-sel saraf di otak dan sumsum tulang belakang untuk berkomunikasi satu sama lain secara efektif. Sel saraf berkomunikasi dengan mengirimkan sinyal-sinyal listrik yang disebut potensial aksi turun serat panjang yang disebut akson, yang terkandung dalam zat isolator yang disebut mielin. Pada MS, serangan tubuh sendiri sistem kekebalan tubuh dan kerusakan myelin. Ketika myelin hilang, akson tidak bisa lagi efektif melakukan sinyal. [4] nama multiple sclerosis mengacu pada bekas luka (scleroses-lebih dikenal sebagai plak atau lesi) khususnya dalam masalah putih otak dan sumsum tulang belakang, yang terutama terdiri mielin [3]. Meskipun banyak yang diketahui tentang mekanisme yang terlibat dalam proses penyakit, penyebabnya masih belum diketahui. Teori termasuk genetika atau infeksi. Berbagai faktor risiko lingkungan juga telah ditemukan [4] [5].

Hampir semua gejala neurologis dapat muncul dengan penyakit ini, dan sering berkembang menjadi cacat fisik dan kognitif [4]. MS mengambil beberapa bentuk, dengan gejala baru yang terjadi baik dalam serangan diskrit (kambuh bentuk) atau perlahan-lahan terakumulasi dari waktu ke waktu (bentuk progresif). [ 6] Antara serangan, gejala bisa hilang sepenuhnya, tapi masalah neurologis permanen sering terjadi, terutama karena kemajuan penyakit. [6]

Tidak ada obat dikenal untuk multiple sclerosis. Perawatan upaya untuk kembali berfungsi setelah serangan, mencegah serangan baru, dan mencegah kecacatan [4] MS obat dapat memiliki efek samping atau buruk ditoleransi, dan banyak pasien mengejar pengobatan alternatif,. Meskipun kurangnya mendukung studi ilmiah. Prognosis sulit untuk memprediksi;. Itu tergantung pada subtipe penyakit, karakteristik penyakit pasien individu, gejala awal dan tingkat kecacatan orang mengalami seiring kemajuan zaman [7] Harapan hidup orang dengan MS adalah 5 sampai 10 tahun lebih rendah dari populasi tidak terpengaruh [1].




Progression of MS subtypes

Several subtypes, or patterns of progression, have been described. Subtypes use the past course of the disease in an attempt to predict the future course. They are important not only for prognosis but also for therapeutic decisions. In 1996 the United States National Multiple Sclerosis Society standardized four subtype definitions:[6]

  1. relapsing remitting,
  2. secondary progressive,
  3. primary progressive, and
  4. progressive relapsing.

The relapsing-remitting subtype is characterized by unpredictable relapses followed by periods of months to years of relative quiet (remission) with no new signs of disease activity. Deficits suffered during attacks may either resolve or leave sequelae, the latter being more common as a function of time.[1] This describes the initial course of 80% of individuals with MS.[1] When deficits always resolve between attacks, this is sometimes referred to as benign MS,[8] although patients will still accrue some degree of disability in the long term.[1] The relapsing-remitting subtype usually begins with a clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). In CIS, a patient has an attack suggestive of demyelination, but does not fulfill the criteria for multiple sclerosis.[1][9] However only 30 to 70% of persons experiencing CIS later develop MS..

indonesia version

Perkembangan subtipe MS

Beberapa subtipe, atau pola perkembangan, telah dijelaskan. Subtipe menggunakan saja masa lalu penyakit dalam upaya untuk memprediksi masa depan saja. Mereka penting tidak hanya untuk prognosis tetapi juga untuk keputusan terapeutik. Pada tahun 1996 Amerika Serikat National Multiple Sclerosis Masyarakat standar empat subtipe definisi: [6]

timbul kambuh,
sekunder progresif,
primer progresif, dan
kambuh progresif.
Subtipe hilang-timbul kambuh ditandai dengan tidak terduga diikuti oleh periode bulan untuk tahun relatif tenang (remisi) dengan tidak ada tanda-tanda aktivitas penyakit baru. Defisit menderita selama serangan baik dapat mengatasi atau meninggalkan gejala sisa, yang terakhir menjadi lebih umum sebagai fungsi waktu [1]. Ini menjelaskan program awal 80% dari individu dengan MS. [1] Ketika defisit selalu menyelesaikan antara serangan, ini kadang-kadang disebut sebagai MS jinak, [8] walaupun pasien masih akan bertambah beberapa derajat kecacatan dalam jangka panjang [1]. subtipe hilang-timbul biasanya dimulai dengan suatu sindrom klinis terisolasi (CIS). Dalam CIS, pasien memiliki serangan sugestif dari demielinasi, tetapi tidak memenuhi kriteria untuk multiple sclerosis. [1] [9] Namun hanya 30 sampai 70% dari orang mengalami CIS kemudian mengembangkan MS


Nerve axon with myelin sheath

Secondary progressive MS

Secondary progressive MS (sometimes called “galloping MS”) describes around 65% of those with an initial relapsing-remitting MS, who then begin to have progressive neurologic decline between acute attacks without any definite periods of remission.[1][6] Occasional relapses and minor remissions may appear.[6] The median time between disease onset and conversion from relapsing-remitting to secondary progressive MS is 19 years.[10] The primary progressive subtype describes the approximately 10–15% of individuals who never have remission after their initial MS symptoms.[11] It is characterized by progression of disability from onset, with no, or only occasional and minor, remissions and improvements.[6] The age of onset for the primary progressive subtype is later than for the relapsing-remitting, but similar to mean age of progression between the relapsing-remitting and the secondary progressive. In both cases it is around 40 years of age.[1]

Progressive relapsing MS describes those individuals who, from onset, have a steady neurologic decline but also suffer clear superimposed attacks. This is the least common of all subtypes.[6]

Atypical variants of MS with non-standard behavior have been described; these include Devic’s disease, Balo concentric sclerosis, Schilder’s diffuse sclerosis and Marburg multiple sclerosis. There is debate on whether they are MS variants or different diseases.[12] Multiple sclerosis also behaves differently in children, taking more time to reach the progressive stage.[1] Nevertheless they still reach it at a lower mean age than adults.[1]

indonesia version

Sekunder progresif MS

Sekunder progresif MS (kadang-kadang disebut “berderap MS”) menjelaskan sekitar 65% dari mereka dengan hilang-timbul MS awal, yang kemudian mulai memiliki penurunan neurologis progresif antara serangan akut tanpa periode tertentu remisi [1] [6]. Sesekali kambuh dan remisi kecil mungkin muncul [6] median waktu antara onset penyakit dan konversi dari hilang-timbul ke MS progresif sekunder adalah 19 tahun.. [10] subtipe progresif primer menjelaskan sekitar 10-15% individu yang tidak pernah memiliki pengampunan setelah gejala awal mereka MS [11]. Hal ini ditandai dengan perkembangan cacat dari awal, tanpa, atau hanya sesekali dan ringan, remisi dan perbaikan. [6] usia onset untuk subtipe progresif primer ini kemudian dibandingkan untuk kambuh -timbul, tetapi mirip dengan usia rata-rata perkembangan antara hilang-timbul dan progresif sekunder. Dalam kedua kasus itu adalah sekitar 40 tahun. [1]

MS kambuh Progresif menggambarkan orang-orang yang, dari awal, mengalami penurunan neurologis stabil tapi juga menderita serangan ditumpangkan jelas. Ini adalah yang paling umum dari semua subtipe. [6]

Atipikal varian dari MS dengan non-standar perilaku telah dijelaskan, ini termasuk penyakit Devic itu, Balo konsentris sclerosis, sklerosis menyebar Schilder dan sclerosis multiple Marburg. Ada perdebatan tentang apakah mereka MS varian atau penyakit yang berbeda [12] Multiple sclerosis juga berperilaku berbeda pada anak-anak, mengambil lebih banyak waktu untuk mencapai tahap progresif.. [1] Meskipun demikian mereka masih mencapainya pada usia rata-rata lebih rendah daripada orang dewasa

Signs and symptoms

Main symptoms of multiple sclerosis

A person with MS can suffer almost any neurological symptom or sign, including changes in sensation such as loss of sensitivity or tingling, pricking or numbness (hypoesthesia and paresthesia), muscle weakness, clonus, muscle spasms, or difficulty in moving; difficulties with coordination and balance (ataxia); problems in speech (dysarthria) or swallowing (dysphagia), visual problems (nystagmus, optic neuritis including phosphenes,[13][14] or diplopia), fatigue, acute or chronic pain, and bladder and bowel difficulties.[1] Cognitive impairment of varying degrees and emotional symptoms of depression or unstable mood are also common.[1] Uhthoff’s phenomenon, an exacerbation of extant symptoms due to an exposure to higher than usual ambient temperatures, and Lhermitte’s sign, an electrical sensation that runs down the back when bending the neck, are particularly characteristic of MS although not specific.[1] The main clinical measure of disability progression and symptom severity is the Expanded Disability Status Scale or EDSS.[15]

Symptoms of MS usually appear in episodic acute periods of worsening (called relapses, exacerbations, bouts, attacks, or “flare-ups”), in a gradually progressive deterioration of neurologic function, or in a combination of both.[6] Multiple sclerosis relapses are often unpredictable, occurring without warning and without obvious inciting factors with a rate rarely above one and a half per year.[1] Some attacks, however, are preceded by common triggers. Relapses occur more frequently during spring and summer.[16] Viral infections such as the common cold, influenza, or gastroenteritis increase the risk of relapse.[1] Stress may also trigger an attack.[17] Pregnancy affects the susceptibility to relapse, with a lower relapse rate at each trimester of gestation. During the first few months after delivery, however, the risk of relapse is increased.[1] Overall, pregnancy does not seem to influence long-term disability. Many potential triggers have been examined and found not to influence MS relapse rates. There is no evidence that vaccination and breast feeding,[1] physical trauma,[18] or Uhthoff’s phenomenon[16] are relapse triggers.


Most likely MS occurs as a result of some combination of genetic, environmental and infectious factors,[1] and possibly other factors like vascular problems.[19] Epidemiological studies of MS have provided hints on possible causes for the disease. Theories try to combine the known data into plausible explanations, but none has proved definitive.

indonesian version

Gejala Utama multiple sclerosis

Seseorang dengan MS dapat mengalami gejala neurologis hampir semua atau tanda, termasuk perubahan sensasi seperti kehilangan sensitivitas atau kesemutan, menusuk atau mati rasa (hypoesthesia dan paresthesia), kelemahan otot, clonus, kejang otot, atau kesulitan dalam bergerak; kesulitan dengan koordinasi dan keseimbangan (ataksia); masalah dalam pidato (disartria) atau menelan (disfagia), masalah visual (nystagmus, neuritis optik termasuk phosphenes, [13] [14] atau diplopia), nyeri kelelahan, akut atau kronis, dan kandung kemih dan usus kesulitan [1]. gangguan kognitif dari berbagai derajat dan gejala emosional dari depresi atau mood yang tidak stabil juga umum. [1] Uhthoff itu fenomena, eksaserbasi gejala yang masih ada karena eksposur lebih tinggi dari suhu lingkungan biasa, dan menandatangani Lhermitte, sebuah sensasi listrik yang berjalan di belakang ketika menekuk leher, terutama karakteristik dari MS meskipun tidak tertentu [1]. Ukuran klinis utama dari perkembangan dan keparahan gejala kecacatan adalah Skala Cacat Status Expanded atau EDSS. [15]

Gejala biasanya muncul MS dalam periode akut episodik yang memburuk (disebut kambuh, eksaserbasi, pertarungan, serangan, atau “flare-up”), dalam penurunan secara bertahap progresif fungsi neurologis, atau kombinasi keduanya sclerosis [6]. Beberapa kambuh sering tidak terduga, terjadi tanpa peringatan dan tanpa faktor menghasut yang jelas dengan tingkat jarang di atas satu setengah per tahun [1]. Beberapa serangan, bagaimanapun, adalah didahului oleh pemicu umum. Relaps terjadi lebih sering selama musim semi dan musim panas [16]. Infeksi virus seperti pilek, influenza, atau gastroenteritis meningkatkan risiko kambuh [1] Stres juga dapat memicu serangan [17]. Kehamilan mempengaruhi kerentanan terhadap kambuh,. dengan tingkat kekambuhan lebih rendah pada setiap trimester kehamilan. Selama beberapa bulan pertama setelah melahirkan, bagaimanapun, risiko kekambuhan meningkat. [1] Secara keseluruhan, kehamilan tampaknya tidak mempengaruhi kecacatan jangka panjang. Memicu banyak potensi telah diperiksa dan ditemukan tidak mempengaruhi tingkat MS kambuh. Tidak ada bukti bahwa vaksinasi dan menyusui, [1] trauma fisik, [18] atau fenomena Uhthoff itu [16] adalah pemicu kambuh.

MS paling mungkin terjadi sebagai hasil dari beberapa kombinasi dari faktor genetik, lingkungan dan menular, [1] dan mungkin faktor-faktor lain seperti masalah vaskuler [19]. Studi epidemiologis dari MS telah memberikan petunjuk tentang kemungkinan penyebab penyakit. Teori mencoba untuk menggabungkan data yang dikenal dalam penjelasan yang masuk akal, tetapi tidak ada yang terbukti definitif


HLA region of Chromosome 6. Changes in this area increase the probability of suffering MS.

MS is not considered a hereditary disease. However, a number of genetic variations have been shown to increase the risk of developing the disease.[20]

The risk of acquiring MS is higher in relatives of a person with the disease than in the general population, especially in the case of siblings, parents, and children.[4] The disease has an overall familial recurrence rate of 20%.[1] In the case of monozygotic twins, concordance occurs only in about 35% of cases, while it goes down to around 5% in the case of siblings and even lower in half-siblings. This indicates susceptibility is partly polygenically driven.[1][4]

It seems to be more common in some ethnic groups than others.[21]

Apart from familial studies, specific genes have been linked with MS. Differences in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system—a group of genes in chromosome 6 that serves as the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) in humans—increase the probability of suffering MS.[1] The most consistent finding is the association between multiple sclerosis and alleles of the MHC defined as DR15 and DQ6.[1] Other loci have shown a protective effect, such as HLA-C554 and HLA-DRB1*11.[1]

Environmental factors

Different environmental factors, both of infectious and non infectious origin have been proposed as risk factors for MS. Although some are partly modifiable, only further research—especially clinical trials—will reveal whether their elimination can help prevent MS.[22]

MS is more common in people who live farther from the equator, although many exceptions exist.[1] Decreased sunlight exposure has been linked with a higher risk of MS.[22] Decreased vitamin D production and intake has been the main biological mechanism used to explain the higher risk among those less exposed to sun.[22][23][24]

Severe stress may also be a risk factor although evidence is weak.[22] Smoking has also been shown to be an independent risk factor for developing MS.[23] Association with occupational exposures and toxins—mainly solvents—has been evaluated, but no clear conclusions have been reached.[22]Vaccinations were also considered as causal factors for the disease; however, most studies show no association between MS and vaccines.[22] Several other possible risk factors, such as diet[25] and hormone intake, have been investigated; however, evidence on their relation with the disease is “sparse and unpersuasive”.[23]

Gout occurs less than would statistically be expected in people with MS, and low levels of uric acid have been found in MS patients as compared to normal individuals. This led to the theory that uric acid protects against MS, although its exact importance remains unknown.[26]


Many microbes have been proposed as potential infectious triggers of MS, but none have been substantiated.[4]

Genetic susceptibility can explain some of the geographic and epidemiological variations in MS incidence, like the high incidence of the disease among some families or the risk decline with genetic distance, but does not account for other phenomena, such as the changes in risk that occur with migration at an early age.[5] An explanation for this epidemiological finding could be that some kind of infection, produced by a widespread microbe rather than a rare pathogen, is the origin of the disease.[5] Different hypotheses have elaborated on the mechanism by which this may occur. The hygiene hypothesis proposes that exposure to several infectious agents early in life is protective against MS, the disease being a response to a later encounter with such agents.[1] The prevalence hypothesis proposes that the disease is due to a pathogen more common in regions of high MS prevalence. This pathogen is very common, causing in most individuals an asymptomatic persistent infection. Only in a few cases, and after many years since the original infection, does it cause demyelination.[5][27] The hygiene hypothesis has received more support than the prevalence hypothesis.[5]

Evidence for viruses as a cause includes the presence of oligoclonal bands in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid of most patients, the association of several viruses with human demyelination encephalomyelitis, and induction of demyelination in animals through viral infection.[28] Human herpes viruses are a candidate group of viruses linked to MS. Individuals who have never been infected by the Epstein-Barr virus have a reduced risk of having the disease, and those infected as young adults have a greater risk than those who had it at a younger age.[1][5] Although some consider that this goes against the hygiene hypothesis, since the non-infected have probably experienced a more hygienic upbringing,[5] others believe that there is no contradiction since it is a first encounter at a later moment with the causative virus that is the trigger for the disease.[1] Other diseases that have also been related with MS are measles, mumps and rubella.[1]


 Blood-brain barrier breakdown

Demyelination in MS. On Klüver-Barrera myelin staining, decoloration in the area of the lesion can be appreciated (Original scale 1:100).

The blood–brain barrier is a capillary system that should prevent entrance of T cells into the nervous system.[4] The blood–brain barrier is normally not permeable to these types of cells, unless triggered by infection or a virus, which decreases the integrity of the tight junctions forming the barrier.[4] When the blood–brain barrier regains its integrity, usually after infection or virus has cleared, the T cells are trapped inside the brain.[4]


MS is currently believed to be an immune-mediated disorder mediated by a complex interaction of the individual’s genetics and as yet unidentified environmental insults.[4] Damage is believed to be caused by the patient’s own immune system. The immune system attacks the nervous system, possibly as a result of exposure to a molecule with a similar structure to one of its own.[4]


The name multiple sclerosis refers to the scars (scleroses – better known as plaques or lesions) that form in the nervous system. MS lesions most commonly involve white matter areas close to the ventricles of the cerebellum, brain stem, basal ganglia and spinal cord; and the optic nerve. The function of white matter cells is to carry signals between grey matter areas, where the processing is done, and the rest of the body. The peripheral nervous system is rarely involved.[4]

More specifically, MS destroys oligodendrocytes, the cells responsible for creating and maintaining a fatty layer—known as the myelin sheath—which helps the neurons carry electrical signals.[4] MS results in a thinning or complete loss of myelin and, as the disease advances, the cutting (transection) of the neuron’s extensions or axons. When the myelin is lost, a neuron can no longer effectively conduct electrical signals.[4] A repair process, called remyelination, takes place in early phases of the disease, but the oligodendrocytes cannot completely rebuild the cell’s myelin sheath.[29] Repeated attacks lead to successively fewer effective remyelinations, until a scar-like plaque is built up around the damaged axons.[29] Different lesion patterns have been described.[30]


Apart from demyelination, the other pathologic hallmark of the disease is inflammation. According to a strictly immunological explanation of MS, the inflammatory process is caused by T cells, a kind of lymphocyte. Lymphocytes are cells that play an important role in the body’s defenses.[4] In MS, T cells gain entry into the brain via the previously described blood–brain barrier. Evidence from animal models also point to a role of B cells in addition to T cells in development of the disease.[31]

The T cells recognize myelin as foreign and attack it as if it were an invading virus. This triggers inflammatory processes, stimulating other immune cells and soluble factors like cytokines and antibodies. Leaks form in the blood–brain barrier, which in turn cause a number of other damaging effects such as swelling, activation of macrophages, and more activation of cytokines and other destructive proteins.[4]


T1-weighted MRI scans (post-contrast) of the same brain slice at monthly intervals. Bright spots indicate active lesions.

Multiple sclerosis can be difficult to diagnose since its signs and symptoms may be similar to other medical problems.[1][32] Medical organizations have created diagnostic criteria to ease and standardize the diagnostic process especially in the first stages of the disease.[1] Historically, the Schumacher and Poser criteria were both popular.[33]

Currently, the McDonald criteria focus on a demonstration with clinical, laboratory and radiologic data of the dissemination of MS lesions in time and space for non-invasive MS diagnosis, though some have stated that the only proved diagnosis of MS is autopsy, or occasionally biopsy, where lesions typical of MS can be detected through histopathological techniques.[1][34][35]

Clinical data alone may be sufficient for a diagnosis of MS if an individual has suffered separate episodes of neurologic symptoms characteristic of MS.[34] Since some people seek medical attention after only one attack, other testing may hasten and ease the diagnosis. The most commonly used diagnostic tools are neuroimaging, analysis of cerebrospinal fluid and evoked potentials. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and spine shows areas of demyelination (lesions or plaques). Gadolinium can be administered intravenously as a contrast to highlight active plaques and, by elimination, demonstrate the existence of historical lesions not associated with symptoms at the moment of the evaluation.[34][36] Testing of cerebrospinal fluid obtained from a lumbar puncture can provide evidence of chronic inflammation of the central nervous system. The cerebrospinal fluid is tested for oligoclonal bands of IgG on electrophoresis, which are inflammation markers found in 75–85% of people with MS.[34][37] The nervous system of a person with MS responds less actively to stimulation of the optic nerve and sensory nerves due to demyelination of such pathways. These brain responses can be examined using visual and sensory evoked potentials.[38]


Although there is no known cure for multiple sclerosis, several therapies have proven helpful. The primary aims of therapy are returning function after an attack, preventing new attacks, and preventing disability. As with any medical treatment, medications used in the management of MS have several adverse effects. Alternative treatments are pursued by some patients, despite the shortage of supporting, comparable, replicated scientific study.

Acute attacks

During symptomatic attacks, administration of high doses of intravenous corticosteroids, such as methylprednisolone, is the routine therapy for acute relapses.[1] Although generally effective in the short term for relieving symptoms, corticosteroid treatments do not appear to have a significant impact on long-term recovery.[39] Oral and intravenous administration seem to have similar efficacy.[40] Consequences of severe attacks which do not respond to corticosteroids might be treated by plasmapheresis.[1]

Disease-modifying treatments

Disease-modifying treatments are expensive and most of these require frequent (up-to-daily) injections. Others require IV infusions at 1–3 month intervals.

Fingolimod (trade name Gilenya) was approved for MS by the FDA in 2010, and in Europe in 2011. As of 2011[update], after this approval, there are six disease-modifying treatments for MS approved by regulatory agencies of various countries, being the other five: Interferon beta-1a (trade names Avonex, CinnoVex, ReciGen and Rebif) and interferon beta-1b (U.S. trade name Betaseron, in Europe and Japan Betaferon). A third medication is glatiramer acetate (Copaxone), a non-interferon, non-steroidal immunomodulator. The fourth medication, mitoxantrone, is an immunosuppressant also used in cancer chemotherapy. The fifth is a humanized monoclonal antibody immunomodualtor, natalizumab (marketed as Tysabri).[1] The interferons and glatiramer acetate are delivered by frequent injections, varying from once-per-day for glatiramer acetate to once-per-week (but intra-muscular) for Avonex. Natalizumab and mitoxantrone are given by IV infusion at monthly intervals.

All six kinds of medications are modestly effective at decreasing the number of attacks in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) while the capacity of interferons and glatiramer acetate is more controversial. Studies of their long-term effects are still lacking.[1][41] Comparisons between immunomodulators (all but mitoxantrone) show that the most effective is natalizumab, both in terms of relapse rate reduction and halting disability progression.[42] Mitoxantrone may be the most effective of them all; however, it is generally not considered as a long-term therapy, as its use is limited by severe secondary effects.[1][41] The earliest clinical presentation of RRMS is the clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). Treatment with interferons during an initial attack can decrease the chance that a patient will develop clinical MS.[1]

Treatment of progressive MS is more difficult than relapsing-remitting MS. Mitoxantrone has shown positive effects in patients with secondary progressive and progressive relapsing courses. It is moderately effective in reducing the progression of the disease and the frequency of relapses in patients in short-term follow-up.[43] No treatment has been proven to modify the course of primary progressive MS.[44]

As with many medical treatments, these treatments have several adverse effects. One of the most common is irritation at the injection site for glatiramer acetate and the interferon treatments. Over time, a visible dent at the injection site, due to the local destruction of fat tissue, known as lipoatrophy, may develop. Interferons produce symptoms similar to influenza;[45] some patients taking glatiramer experience a post-injection reaction manifested by flushing, chest tightness, heart palpitations, breathlessness, and anxiety, which usually lasts less than thirty minutes.[46] More dangerous but much less common are liver damage from interferons,[47] severe cardiotoxicity, infertility, and acute myeloid leukemia of mitoxantrone,[1][41] and the putative link between natalizumab and some cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.[1]

Management of the effects of MS

Disease-modifying treatments reduce the progression rate of the disease, but do not stop it. As multiple sclerosis progresses, the symptomatology tends to increase. The disease is associated with a variety of symptoms and functional deficits that result in a range of progressive impairments and disability. Management of these deficits is therefore very important. Both drug therapy and neurorehabilitation have shown to ease the burden of some symptoms, though neither influences disease progression.[1][48] Some symptoms have a good response to medication, such as unstable bladder and spasticity, while management of many others is much more complicated.[1] As for any patient with neurologic deficits, a multidisciplinary approach is key to improving quality of life; however, there are particular difficulties in specifying a ‘core team’ because people with MS may need help from almost any health profession or service at some point.[1] Multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs increase activity and participation of patients but do not influence impairment level.[49]

Historically, individuals suffering from MS were advised against participation in physical activity due to worsening symptoms.[50] However, under the direction of a physiotherapist, participation in physical activity can be safe and has been proven beneficial for patients with MS.[51] Research has supported the rehabilitative role of physical activity in improving muscle power,[52] mobility,[52] mood,[53] bowel health,[54] general conditioning and quality of life.[52] However, it is important to be cautious about not overworking or overheating the patient during the course of exercise. Physiotherapists have the expertise needed to adequately prescribe exercise programs that are suitable for the individual. The FITT equation (frequency of exercise, intensity of exercise, type of exercise and time/duration of exercise) is typically used to prescribe exercises.[51] Depending on the patient, activities may include resistance training,[55] walking, swimming, yoga, tai chi, and others.[54] Determining an appropriate and safe exercise program is challenging and must be carefully individualized to each patient being sure to account for all contraindications and precautions.[51]

 Alternative treatments

As with most chronic diseases, alternative treatments for multiple sclerosis, which are unsupported by clinical or scientific evidence, are pursued by some patients.[56] Examples are a dietary regimen,[57] herbal medicine (including the use of medical cannabis),[58] hyperbaric oxygenation[59] and self-infection with hookworm (known generally as helminthic therapy).[60]


Disability-adjusted life yearfor multiple sclerosis per 100,000 inhabitants in 2004

  no data
  less than 13
  more than 43

The prognosis (the expected future course of the disease) for a person with multiple sclerosis depends on the subtype of the disease; the individual’s sex, age, and initial symptoms; and the degree of disability the person experiences.[7] The disease evolves and advances over decades, 30 being the mean years to death since onset.[1]

Female sex, relapsing-remitting subtype, optic neuritis or sensory symptoms at onset, few attacks in the initial years and especially early age at onset, are associated with a better course.[7][61]

The life expectancy of people with MS is 5 to 10 years lower than that of unaffected people.[1] Almost 40% of patients reach the seventh decade of life.[61] Nevertheless, two-thirds of the deaths in people with MS are directly related to the consequences of the disease.[1] Suicide also has a higher prevalence than in the healthy population, while infections and complications are especially hazardous for the more disabled ones.[1]

Although most patients lose the ability to walk prior to death, 90% are still capable of independent walking at 10 years from onset, and 75% at 15 years.[61][62]


Ethnic groups such as the Sami have a lower incidence of MS, possibly due to genetic factors.

Two main measures are used in epidemiological studies: incidence and prevalence. Incidence is the number of new cases per unit of person–time at risk (usually number of new cases per thousand person–years); while prevalence is the total number of cases of the disease in the population at a given time. Prevalence is known to depend not only on incidence, but also on survival rate and migrations of affected people. MS has a prevalence that ranges between 2 and 150 per 100,000 depending on the country or specific population.[2] Studies on populational and geographical patterns of epidemiological measures have been very common in MS,[27] and have led to the proposal of different etiological (causal) theories.[5][22][23][27]

MS usually appears in adults in their thirties but it can also appear in children.[1] The primary progressive subtype is more common in people in their fifties.[11] As with many autoimmune disorders, the disease is more common in women, and the trend may be increasing.[1][63] In children, the sex ratio difference is higher,[1] while in people over fifty, MS affects males and females almost equally.[11]

There is a north-to-south gradient in the northern hemisphere and a south-to-north gradient in the southern hemisphere, with MS being much less common in people living near the equator.[1][63] Climate, sunlight and intake of vitamin D have been investigated as possible causes of the disease that could explain this latitude gradient.[23] However, there are important exceptions to the north–south pattern and changes in prevalence rates over time;[1] in general, this trend might be disappearing.[63] This indicates that other factors such as environment or genetics have to be taken into account to explain the origin of MS.[1] MS is also more common in regions with northern Europe populations.[1] But even in regions where MS is common, some ethnic groups are at low risk of developing the disease, including the Samis, Turkmen, Amerindians, Canadian Hutterites, Africans, and New Zealand Māori.[64]

Environmental factors during childhood may play an important role in the development of MS later in life. Several studies of migrants show that if migration occurs before the age of 15, the migrant acquires the new region’s susceptibility to MS. If migration takes place after age 15, the migrant retains the susceptibility of his home country.[1][22] However, the age–geographical risk for developing multiple sclerosis may span a larger timescale.[1] A relationship between season of birth and MS has also been found which lends support to an association with sunlight and vitamin D. For example fewer people with MS are born in November as compared to May.[65]


Medical discovery

Detail of drawing from Carswell book depicting MS lesions in the brain stem and spinal cord (1838)

The French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot (1825–1893) was the first person to recognize multiple sclerosis as a distinct disease in 1868.[66] Summarizing previous reports and adding his own clinical and pathological observations, Charcot called the disease sclerose en plaques. The three signs of MS now known as Charcot’s triad 1 are nystagmus, intention tremor, and telegraphic speech, though these are not unique to MS. Charcot also observed cognition changes, describing his patients as having a “marked enfeeblement of the memory” and “conceptions that formed slowly”.[3]

Prior to Charcot, Robert Carswell (1793–1857), a British professor of pathology, and Jean Cruveilhier (1791–1873), a French professor of pathologic anatomy, had described and illustrated many of the disease’s clinical details, but did not identify it as a separate disease.[66] Specifically, Carswell described the injuries he found as “a remarkable lesion of the spinal cord accompanied with atrophy”.[1] Under the microscope, Swiss pathologist Georg Eduard Rindfleisch (1836–1908) noted in 1863 that the inflammation-associated lesions were distributed around blood vessels.[67][68]

After Charcot’s description, Eugène Devic (1858–1930), Jozsef Balo (1895–1979), Paul Ferdinand Schilder (1886–1940), and Otto Marburg (1874–1948) described special cases of the disease. During all the 20th century there was an important development on the theories about the cause and pathogenesis of MS while efficacious treatments began to appear in 1990.[1]

 Historical cases

There are several historical accounts of people who lived before or shortly after the disease was described by Charcot and probably had MS.


A young woman called Halldora, who lived in iceland around 1200, suddenly lost her vision and mobility, but after praying to the saints, recovered them seven days after.

Saint Lidwina of Schiedam (1380–1433),

 a Dutch nun, may be one of the first clearly identifiable MS patients. From the age of 16 until her death at 53, she suffered intermittent pain, weakness of the legs, and vision loss—symptoms typical of MS.[69] Both cases have led to the proposal of a ‘Viking gene’ hypothesis for the dissemination of the disease.[70]

3.Augustus Frederick d’Este (1794–1848),

son of Prince Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex and Lady Augusta Murray and the grandson of George III of the United Kingdom, almost certainly suffered from MS. D’Este left a detailed diary describing his 22 years living with the disease. His diary began in 1822 and ended in 1846, although it remained unknown until 1948. His symptoms began at age 28 with a sudden transient visual loss (amaurosis fugax) after the funeral of a friend. During the course of his disease, he developed weakness of the legs, clumsiness of the hands, numbness, dizziness, bladder disturbances, and erectile dysfunction. In 1844, he began to use a wheelchair. Despite his illness, he kept an optimistic view of life.[71][72]

4.WNP Barbelion

Another early account of MS was kept by the British diarist W. N. P. Barbellion, nom-de-plume of Bruce Frederick Cummings (1889–1919), who maintained a detailed log of his diagnosis and struggle with MS.[72] His diary was published in 1919 as The Journal of a Disappointed Man.[73]

5.Indonesian Artist Pepeng


Stay in the Hospital Comforts Pepeng

– Ferrasta Soebardi alias Pepeng did not give up.
His passion to entertain, work, and science menutuntut never extinguished, although the disease Multiple gnawing Scleorosis since March 2005.
The house is located dipertemuan Pepeng two watershed, precisely at the very back corner of the Earth Heritage Complex Cinere, Depok, a lot changed. Not only that, his hobby of hanging out in pengkolan also never again dilakoninya. Now dive into the life he learned from the bed where he lay suffering from the disease. “Many consider me sick because of the location of this house. I do not believe it. I am more afraid of thieves than a ghost, “joke.
The proof, every day something came to my house Pepeng. Not to put a sense of pity, but instead draw from the life sciences Pepeng.
It has been over five years Pepeng friends with Scleorosis Multiple disease (MS). Rare disease that makes the sufferer paralyzed. Even at a specific stage of the autonomic nervous taxable, the brain can go wrong command.
However, the disease which attacked him did not make Pepeng stop ‘ngebanyol’. Although the actions that had to do with his group, Sergeant Geronimo ‘, currently only done while lying in bed. Pepeng obstinacy, in addition to fighting the disease, also encouraged a love that never faded from his beloved wife, Siti Aishah Mariam Utami. “Love it makes my life as it is now,” said Pepeng when met recently.
Not just trying to make a living, in the midst of the struggle against diseases, remains persistent Pepeng studying to reach his goal earned a Bachelor Two (S2) in Post Graduate, Faculty of Psychology, University of Indonesia. Master’s degree in the field of Social Psychology Interventions achieved with the predicate ‘cum laude’ in 2006.
Not quite just that, Pepeng also berancana continuing education to a doctorate (S3). Pepeng spirit is once again showing and proving that the conditions of her condition at this time does not become an obstacle to academic achievement. “Hopefully I can reach S3,” said Pepeng vigorously.

Got a ‘wife’ New

Pepeng first glance seemed helpless because the condition can only lie in bed and wheelchair. However, the same conditions which made him even more excited to have a ‘wife’ new. Thus, his days are never quiet from a busy work ‘wife’ a new form of a laptop which he uses to develop his new business, sell the domain.
Even according to his wife, Utami, new activities Pepeng with his laptop had become like his own wife. “Wake up he immediately held a ‘wife’ new and can take hours. If I only ‘wife’ second. His new wife, yes the laptop, “explains Utami. With the same tool Pepeng working on a book about his life that was nearly completed, he added.
Indeed Pepeng illness, can no longer make a career in the performing and entertainment presenter. However, he would still be a man who is fortunate to have a pious wife. So Pepeng remains strong and able to meet the needs of families by performing a number of activities such as Moslem received stitches in his home.
In diseased condition, Pepeng also able to send their children to college broadcast in the neighbor country, Malaysia. “Honestly, almost Mamas education is hampered due to lack of fees. However, before the tuition payment deadline, some colleagues came to see her deliver the fees and others. With the money, eventually Mamas could continue his studies again. All this because God intervened, “he said.

Want Not Lost Meaning of Life

Pepeng also revealed exposures of MS disease-fighting spirit that attacked since last five years. “I can only pray and most importantly, the spirit should not be extinguished. I maker crowd. My prayer when the first pain is not to lonely because of my behavior. I know, all diseases are created at once with the medicine. Hopefully I still miss the cure, “jokes the father of Mamas, Mio, Lalo, and Izra it.
Once convicted of MS disease, Pepeng space is very limited. His days were spent more in the bedroom. From the bedroom, too, Pepeng work. Every Tuesday from morning until evening, Pepeng shooting for the show program ‘Meet Pepeng’ from her bedroom.
In the bedroom newly renovated it, Pepeng also receive his guests. He never refused to those who want to visit. An acquaintance of the Facebook social networking account, for example, comes with 100 colleagues sekantornya invites. There was absolutely no privacy in the home space Pepeng and he only comes once limited to 30 guests still have some breathing room in a room measuring 6 x 7 meters.
Madura typical joke has always been a fresh distraction while talking with the guests. However, every speech, Pepeng bombarded true pain. Because the jokes fresh and warm greeting, the other person often forget that Pepeng was ill. Pepeng actually able to spread the spirit of life and the laptop remains the flagship for a relationship with the outside world. O ato

Birth name: Ferrasta Soebardi
Date of Birth: 23 September 1954)
Place of Birth: Sumenep, Madura, Indonesia
Wife: Siti Aishah Mariam Utami
Children: Mamas, Mio, Lalo, and Izra
Occupation: Presenter, actor, writer
Years active: 1978 – present
Education: Graduate School of Psychology, University of Indonesia, majoring in Psychology of Social Intervention, passed August 4, 2006 with a very satisfactory value (A).
Which movie Starring: Rojali and Juleha (1979), Win-Delicious (1986), and his goods You (1986).
Work Experience: Employee Bank Pinaesaan (1988) and Bakrie Brothers (1989)

Ferrasta “Pepeng” Soebardi: “I’m Just Waiting for God’s Promise”
Rarely found who are grateful when wracked exam. Ferrasta Soebardi or better known as Pepeng is the one who bit it. In the middle of exams in the form of chronic pain that he could still smile and prejudice either to God.

Pepeng bersama istri tercinta

As is known, since five years ago, convicted Pepeng rare disease Multiple Sclerosis (MS), which is a disease that attacks the central nervous system and bring the process of inflammation (inflammation) of the spine. This disease will interfere with the delivery of “messages” between the brain and other body parts.

MS disease who suffered a former presenter of this famous cause paralysis and every moment felt incredible pain from waist to toe. How sakitkah? “As diketok mallet finger. But pain is not the time diketok, but after diketok. Carried away, carried away, carried away, “said Pepeng.

Pepeng sure there is wisdom behind a disease that God gives. He did not want depression and dissolve by this ordeal. This he proved by staying productive activity, although lived in the bed.

Pepeng admitted it when he gets sick a lot. Earned a master psychologist, for example. Even more closely interwoven friendship and wide when he was sick. Pepeng house almost every day on Earth Heritage Cinere guests visited Depok West Java, whether known or not. Not infrequently, many guests are enlightened after visiting the house Pepeng.

Middle of last month, Ahmad Damanik, Dadang Kusmayadi, Ibn Intercession, Saiful Hamiwanto, and Surya Fachrizal of Sound Hidayatullah visit to the residence Pepeng. This visit is solely for the interview, but also in the framework of friendship.

In the rooms there are many patches of paper testimonials from the guests, told the magazine Pepeng share stories of perseverance to face the disease

original info

Dalam Sakit Pepeng Tetap Menghibur

Ferrasta Soebardi alias Pepeng tak menyerah.
Semangatnya untuk menghibur, berkarya, dan menutuntut ilmu tak pernah padam, walau penyakit Multiple Scleorosis menggerogotinya sejak Maret 2005.Rumah Pepeng yang terletak dipertemuan dua aliran sungai, persisnya di pojok paling belakang Kompleks Bumi Pusaka Cinere, Depok, banyak berubah. Tidak hanya itu, hobinya nongkrong di pengkolan juga tak pernah lagi dilakoninya. Kini dia belajar menyelami kehidupan dari atas ranjang tempatnya terbaring sejak menderita penyakit. “Banyak yang menganggap saya sakit karena lokasi rumah ini. Saya nggak percaya. Saya lebih takut maling daripada hantu,” kelakarnya.
Buktinya, setiap hari selalu ada saja yang datang ke rumah Pepeng. Bukan untuk menaruh rasa iba, tapi justru menimba ilmu hidup dari Pepeng.
Sudah lebih lima tahun Pepeng berteman akrab dengan penyakit Multiple Scleorosis (MS). Penyakit langka itu membuat penderitanya lumpuh. Bahkan pada stadium tertentu syaraf otonom kena, otak bisa salah perintah.
Namun, penyakit yang menyerangnya tak membuat Pepeng berhenti ‘ngebanyol’. Meskipun aksi-aksi yang dulu dilakukannya bersama grupnya, Sersan Prambors’, saat ini hanya dilakukannya sambil berbaring di tempat tidur. Ketegaran Pepeng, selain untuk melawan penyakitnya, juga didorong cinta kasih yang tak pupus dari istri tercintanya, Utami Mariam Siti Aisyah. “Cinta itu membuat saya hidup seperti sekarang,” kata Pepeng saat ditemui baru-baru ini. 
Tidak hanya berusaha mencari nafkah, di tengah perjuangan melawan penyakit, Pepeng tetap gigih menuntut ilmu untuk mewujudkan cita-citanya meraih gelar Strata Dua (S2) di  Pasca Sarjana, Fakultas Psikologi, Universitas Indonesia. Gelar master  dibidang Psikologi Intervensi Sosial diraihnya dengan predikat ‘cumlaude’ pada 2006 silam.
Tidak cukup hanya itu, Pepeng juga berancana melanjutkan pendidikan hingga meraih gelar doktor (S3). Semangat Pepeng ini sekaligus menunjukkan dan membuktikan bahwa kondisi yang kondisi yang dialaminya saat ini tidak menjadi kendala untuk mengukir prestasi akademik. “Mudah-mudahan saya mampu meraih S3,” ungkap Pepeng penuh semangat.Punya ‘Istri’ BaruSepintas Pepeng tampak tak berdaya karena kondisinya yang hanya bisa terbaring di tempat tidur dan kursi roda. Namun, kondisi itu pula yang membuatnya semakin bersemangat hingga memiliki ‘istri’ baru. Sehingga, hari-harinya tak pernah sepi dari kesibukan mengerjakan ‘istri’ baru berupa laptop yang digunakannya untuk mengembangkannya bisnis barunya, menjual domain.
Bahkan menurut istrinya, Utami, kegiatan baru Pepeng bersama laptopnya sudah dijadikan layaknya istri sendiri. “Bangun tidur dia langsung megang ‘istri’ barunya dan bisa berjam-jam. Kalau saya cuma ‘istri’ kedua. Istri barunya, ya laptop,” jelas Utami. Dengan alat itu pula Pepeng menggarap buku tentang kehidupannya yang sudah hampir rampung, tambahnya.
Memang penyakit yang diderita Pepeng, membuatnya tak bisa lagi tampil berkarir di dunia presenter dan entertainment. Namun, dia tetap masih menjadi seorang pria yang beruntung karena memiliki istri yang soleh. Sehingga Pepeng tetap tegar dan mampu memenuhi kebutuhan keluarga dengan melakukan sejumlah  kegiatan seperti menerima jahitan busana muslim di rumahnya.
Dalam kondisi sakit, Pepeng juga mampu menyekolahkan anaknya kuliah broadcast di negeri Jiran, Malaysia. “Jujur saja, pendidikan Mamas nyaris terhambat karena ketiadaan biaya. Namun, sebelum batas waktu pembayaran kuliah, beberapa rekan datang menjenguk sambil mengantarkan honor dan lain-lainnya. Dengan uang itu, akhirnya Mamas bisa melanjutkan kuliahnya kembali. Semua ini karena turut campur tangan Allah,” ungkapnya.Tak Mau Kehilangan Makna HidupPepeng juga mengungkapkan, ikhwal semangatnya melawan penyakit MS yang menyerangnya sejak lima tahun terakhir. “Saya hanya bisa berdoa dan yang paling penting, semangat tidak boleh padam. Saya pembuat keramaian. Doa saya ketika pertama sakit adalah jangan sampai kesepian karena perilaku saya.  Saya tahu, semua penyakit diciptakan sekaligus dengan obatnya. Mudah-mudahan saya masih kebagian obatnya,” kelakar ayah dari Mamas, Mio, Lalo, dan Izra itu.
Setelah divonis penyakit MS, ruang gerak Pepeng memang sangat terbatas. Hari-harinya lebih banyak dihabiskan di kamar tidur. Dari kamar tidur itu pula, Pepeng bekerja. Tiap Selasa sejak pagi hingga petang, Pepeng melakukan pengambilan gambar untuk program acara ‘Ketemu Pepeng’ dari ruang tidurnya.
Di kamar tidur yang baru direnovasi itu, Pepeng juga menerima tamu-tamunya. Dia tak pernah menolak orang-orang yang ingin bertandang. Seorang kenalan dari akun jejaring sosial Facebook, misalnya, datang dengan mengajak 100 rekan sekantornya. Sama sekali tak ada ruang privasi di rumah Pepeng dan dia hanya membatasi 30 tamu sekali datang agar tetap punya ruang bernapas di kamar berukuran 6 x 7 meter itu.
Guyonan khas Madura selalu menjadi selingan segar ketika berbincang dengan para tamu. Tetapi, setiap berbicara, Pepeng sejatinya dihujani rasa sakit. Karena guyonan segar dan sapaan hangatnya, lawan bicara sering lupa bahwa Pepeng sedang sakit. Pepeng justru mampu menebar semangat hidup dan laptop tetap menjadi andalannya untuk menjalin hubungan dengan dunia luar. O atoBIODATA PEPENG
Nama lahir        : Ferrasta Soebardi
Tanggal Lahir    : 23 September 1954)
Tempat Lahir    : Sumenep, Madura, Indonesia
Istri                : Utami Mariam Siti Aisyah
Anak            : Mamas, Mio, Lalo, dan Izra
Pekerjaan         : Presenter, aktor, penulis
Tahun aktif         : 1978 – sekarang
Pendidikan        : Pasca Sarjana Fakultas Psikologi Universitas Indonesia, jurusan Psikologi Intervensi Sosial, lulus 4 Agustus 2006 dengan nilai sangat memuaskan (A).
Film Yang Dibintangi: Rojali dan Juleha (1979), Sama-Sama Enak (1986), dan Anunya Kamu (1986).
Pengalaman Kerja:  Pegawai Bank Pinaesaan (1988) dan Bakrie Brothers (1989)

Ferrasta “Pepeng” Soebardi:“Saya Tinggal Menunggu Janji Allah” 

Jarang sekali ditemukan orang yang bersyukur ketika didera ujian. Ferrasta Soebardi atau lebih dikenal dengan Pepeng adalah orang yang sedikit itu. Di tengah ujian berupa sakit yang menahun ia masih bisa tersenyum dan berprasangka baik kepada Allah.

Pepeng bersama istri tercinta 

Seperti diketahui,  sejak lima tahun silam, Pepeng divonis penyakit langka  Multiple Sclerosis (MS-red), yakni sebuah penyakit yang menyerang sistem saraf pusat dan memunculkan terjadinya proses inflamasi(peradangan) pada tulang belakang. Penyakit ini akan mengganggu penyampaian “pesan” antara otak dan bagian-bagian tubuh lainnya.


Penyakit MS yang dideritanya menyebabkan mantan presenter kondang ini mengalami kelumpuhan dan setiap saat merasakan nyeri yang luar biasa dari pinggang hingga ujung kaki. Seberapa sakitkah? “Seperti jari diketok palu. Tapi nyerinya bukan saat diketok, tapi setelah diketok. Nyut, nyut,nyut,” kata Pepeng.

Pepeng yakin ada hikmah di balik penyakit yang Allah berikan. Ia tak ingin depresi dan larut oleh penderitaan yang dialaminya ini. Ini ia buktikan dengan tetap melakukan aktivitas yang produktif, meski dijalani di atas tempat tidur.

Pepeng mengaku justru saat sakit ia mendapatkan banyak hal. Memperoleh gelar master psikolog, misalnya. Jalinan pertemanannya pun semakin erat dan luas saat ia sakit. Hampir setiap harinya rumah Pepeng di Bumi Pusaka Cinere Depok Jawa Barat dikunjungi tamu, baik yang dikenal maupun yang tidak. Tak jarang banyak tamu yang tercerahkan setelah berkunjung ke rumah Pepeng.

Pertengahan bulan lalu, Ahmad Damanik, Dadang Kusmayadi, Ibnu Syafaat, Saiful Hamiwanto, dan Surya Fachrizal dari Suara Hidayatullah berkunjung ke kediaman Pepeng. Kunjungan kali ini tidak semata-mata untuk wawancara, tapi juga dalam rangka silaturahim.

Di dalam kamarnya yang terdapat banyak tempelan kertas testimoni dari para tamu itu, kepada majalah ini Pepeng berbagi kisah tentang ketabahannya menghadapi penyakit.

Research directions



Chemical structure of alemtuzumab

Research directions on MS treatments include investigations of MS pathogenesis and heterogeneity; research of more effective, convenient, or tolerable new treatments for RRMS; creation of therapies for the progressive subtypes; neuroprotection strategies; and the search for effective symptomatic treatments.[74] A number of treatments that may curtail attacks or improve function are under investigation. Emerging agents for RRMS that have shown promise in phase 2 trials include alemtuzumab (trade name Campath), daclizumab (trade name Zenapax), rituximab, dirucotide, BHT-3009, cladribine, dimethyl fumarate, estriol, fingolimod, laquinimod, minocycline, statins, temsirolimus and teriflunomide.[74]

In 2010, an FDA committee recommended approving fingolimod for the treatment of MS attacks,[75] and on September 22, 2010, fingolimod (trade name Gilenya) became the first oral drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration to reduce relapses and delay disability progression in patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.[76] Clinical trials of fingolimod have demonstrated side effects in treated patients, including cardiovascular conditions, macular edema, infections, liver toxicity and malignancies.[77][78]

Much interest has been focused on the prospect of utilizing vitamin D analogs in the prevention and management of CIS and MS, especially given its possible role in the pathogenesis of the disease. While there is anecdotal evidence of benefit for low dose naltrexone,[79] only results from a pilot study in primary progressive MS have been published.[80]

Disease biomarkers

The variable clinical presentation of MS and the lack of diagnostic laboratory tests lead to delays in diagnosis and the impossibility of predicting diagnosis. New diagnostic methods are being investigated. These include work with anti-myelin antibodies, analysis of microarray gene expression and studies with serum and cerebrospinal fluid but none of them has yielded reliable positive results.[81]

Currently there are no clinically established laboratory investigations available that can predict prognosis. However, several promising approaches have been proposed. Investigations on the prediction of evolution have centered on monitoring disease activity. Disease activation biomarkers include interleukin-6, nitric oxide and nitric oxide synthase, osteopontin, and fetuin-A.[81] On the other hand since disease progression is the result of neurodegeneration the roles of proteins indicative of neuronal, axonal, and glial loss such as neurofilaments, tau and N-acetylaspartate are under investigation.[81]

A final investigative field is work with biomarkers that distinguish between medication responders and nonresponders.[81]

Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency

In 2008, Italian vascular surgeon Paolo Zamboni reported research suggesting that MS involves a vascular disease process he referred to as chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI, CCVI), in which veins from the brain are constricted. He found CCSVI in the majority of MS patients, performed a surgical procedure to correct it and claimed that 73% of patients improved.[82] Concern has been raised with Zamboni’s research as it was neither blinded nor controlled[83] and further studies have had variable results.[84] This has raised serious objections to the hypothesis of CCSVI originating multiple sclerosis.[85] The neurology community currently recommends not to use the proposed treatment until its effectiveness is confirmed by controlled studies, the need for which has been recognized by the scientific bodies engaged in MS research

the end @ copyright Dr iwan suwandy 2011

2 responses to “The MS Disease Info(Penyakit Pelawak Pepeng)

  1. Kalau boleh tanya, untuk obatnya sendiri memang masih belum ada ya…? ngeri juga…

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