Which statement about prognosis in multiple sclerosis is true?

• A. Symptoms progress rapidly in all patients.
• B. Remission never occurs with MS.
• C. Early treatment improves long-term outcome.
• D. Most patients achieve complete symptom resolution with treatment.

Answer: (C)

Starting disease-modifying therapy early in multiple sclerosis can meaningfully alter the disease course. These treatments reduce how often relapses occur and slow the accumulation of disability over time, so beginning therapy soon after diagnosis is associated with better long-term function and quality of life. The disease is variable, and while many patients experience partial recovery after relapses, complete and universal symptom resolution with treatment is not typical. MS does not progress at the same rate in every person—some have relapsing-remitting courses with periods of stability, while others may have slower progression. Because early treatment helps limit ongoing damage, the statement that early treatment improves long-term outcomes is the best choice.