URINARY MARKERS OF DISEASE-ACTIVITY IN MULTIPLE-SCLEROSIS

Numerous markers of disease activity, representing different aspects o f the inflammatory cascade and pathogenic process in multiple sclerosi s, con be detected in the urine. Urinary monitoring provides distinct advantages over blood and cerebrospinal fluid: it is easier to collect allows frequent sampling and acts as a natural integrator by capturin g the excretion of a substance over a prolonged Period of time. We wil l discuss the principles, advantages, and pitfalls of urinary monitori ng in relationship to multiple sclerosis.