Cholesterol level correlate with disability score in patients with relapsing-remitting form of multiple sclerosis

Abstract Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease characterised by demyelination. There are many environmental factors that can affect the progression of this disease. It is necessary to better understand the impact of these factors in MS pathogenesis and progression. Objective Present study investigates the relationship of total cholesterol serum levels and other parameters contributing to cardiovascular risk - homocysteine and serum lipid parameters (triglycerides, HDL, LDL) - with the progression of MS (EDSS score). Methods The study involved 169 patients diagnosed with MS. Total homocysteine levels were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. Serum lipid parameters were measured with enzymatic kits. Results There was no difference observed between homocysteine levels in MS patients and controls. Dyslipidaemia seems to be associated with MS progression, particularly in women with relapsing-remitting form of MS. Conclusion Positive correlation of total and LDL cholesterol with disability score in patients with relapsing-remitting form of MS suggests that lipid parameters could have a negative effect on the disease progression.