There are mainly two types:
1. Relapsing-remitting type
2. Progressive type
The relapsing-remitting type is characterised by unpredictable relapses (worsening symptoms) followed by periods of remission (improvement from symptoms). It is the most common type and is seen in 80-90% of patients with MS.
The remaining 10-15% of MS patients have progressive type where the disease keeps on getting worse without any remission. There are 2 sub types in this progressive type.
- Primary progressive
- Secondary progressive
About 50% of patients with the relapsing-remitting type end up with progressive type in about 15-20 years. This is called secondary progressive type.
The primary progressive subtype is the one where there is no remission after the initial symptoms and it occurs in approximately 10–15% of individuals.