MS Queensland

A decade-long study confirms the presence of multiple sclerosis-associated retrovirus in people with secondary-progressive MS.

Italian researchers recruited 39 untreated people with MS for a blind observational study in 1999.  Patients were tested for MS-associated retrovirus in their cerebral spinal fluid.

MSRV proteins may trigger an abnormal immune response, influencing the inflammatory processes characteristic in MS.  While the study has not demonstrated that MSRV causes MS, it could be a way of identifying potential worsening outcomes.

Source: MS Research Australia

MS Australia – QLD will hold free information sessions for people newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast next month.

The seminars, hosted by MS professionals, will cover a number of topics from new treatments and therapies to navigating the healthcare system.  This event would suit people who have recently received an MS diagnosis, and family or friends are welcome to attend.

Gold Coast session: September 7 from 6pm at Gold Coast Hospital.  Click here for details.
Brisbane session: September 8 from 5.30pm at MS Queensland's Services department.  Click here for details.

For more information, contact Tim O’Maley on 07 3840 0855.  Please RSVP by September 3.

MS Australia – QLD has published a statement regarding Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency (CCSVI).  MS Australia has recognised a need within the community to know more about Chronic Cerebro-Spinal Venous Insufficiency (CCSVI) therapy.

MS Australia has been working with MSRA to assess and analyse the global data on CCSVI therapy and the progress of a clinical trial within Australia as part of a world-wide response.  You can view the full statement on CCSVI here.