Time interval between the first clinical manifestations and diagnosis of multiple sclerosis among patients followed up at a university center

Multiple sclerosis (MS) inflicts significant physical, psychosocial, and economic burdens. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial to control the disease and reduce the risk of disability. This study aimed to characterize the initial clinical signs and symptoms, and to evaluate factors that may influence the time interval until MS diagnosis in patients receiving disease-modifying therapies available in the Brazilian Public Health System. This was a cross-sectional analytical study, analyzing sociodemographic and clinical data obtained through face-to-face interviews and consultations with medical records. A total of 196 MS patients were included, of whom 73.5% female, with median ages of 28.5 years at first signs and symptoms and 32.0 years at disease diagnosis. Symptoms involving the cranial nerves (49.5%), such as optic neuritis and diplopia, and sensory pathways (40.8%), mainly paresthesia, were the most prevalent. The median time and interquartile range between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis of MS was 9.3 months (2.4 - 36.0). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the unifocal presentation of symptoms and comorbidity was associated with a longer time taken to establish the diagnosis. The dissemination of information related to MS, and awareness of the disease can contribute to the recognition of signs and symptoms, thereby promoting early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.