Familial multiple sclerosis: does consanguinity have a role?

Mult Scler. 2011 Apr;17(4):487-9. doi: 10.1177/1352458510390406. Epub 2010 Dec 21.

Abstract

Parental consanguinity (PC) may be a risk factor for familial multiple sclerosis (FMS) throughout inbred communities. The objective of this report was to estimate prevalence of FMS and rate of PC among FMS versus non-FMS patients. All Saudi MS patients were identified from our registry. The history of PC was analyzed as a case-control study. In total 141 MS patients were identified. Of these, 30 (21%) reported having at least one affected relative, 37.6% reported PC and 16% presented first-degree PC. In addition, FMS patients were more likely than non-FMS patients to report PC. In conclusion, FMS is prevalent among Saudi MS patients. MS patients with a history of PC were more likely to have FMS, suggesting a potential role of consanguinity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Case-Control Studies
  • Consanguinity*
  • Databases, Factual
  • Humans
  • Multiple Sclerosis / epidemiology*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / genetics*
  • Pedigree
  • Prevalence
  • Registries
  • Risk Factors
  • Saudi Arabia