Current epidemiology of MS with onset in childhood and adolescence (pediatric multiple sclerosis)

The review presents an analysis of the epidemiological indicators of multiple sclerosis (MS) with onset in childhood and adolescence (pediatric MS, PMS) in different countries over time periods. The data from 2000 to 2016 and from 2017 to 2025 for different countries were analyzed separately, taking into account the methodological features of the research. The difficulties in conducting epidemiological studies in this age group and the possibilities of overcoming them are discussed. The data from global meta-analyses and reviews are presented. As a result, it is concluded that there is an increase in the prevalence and incidence of PMS (the latter to a lesser extent). Modern possibilities of therapy using fingolimod, which is approved for use in this age group, as well as anti-B-cell drugs (for example, ofatumumab), make it possible to control the activity of the pathological process in PMS.