Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system, characterized by immunemediated destruction of myelinated axons, which leads to notable physical disability. Although presence among active athletes is extremely low, it can cause considerable lifestyle changes for those athletes affected as they transition into life after competitive athletics. We describe a 29-year-old former collegiate women’s basketball player in whom MS was diagnosed during a visit for recurrent evaluation of Bell palsy. Subsequent neurology consult and magnetic resonance imaging led to the confirmation of the diagnosis of MS, and the patient began treatment for relapsing-remitting MS. During visits of what appear to be straightforward neurological symptoms, it is imperative to collect a full neurologic history and perform a detailed physical examination to determine whether a more systemic disease process could be at fault, which may subsequently lead to earlier detection and treatment of MS.
Recommended Citation
Reynolds, Eric R.; Andrew D. Ashbaugh; and Christopher A. McGrew. "A New Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis in a 29-Year-Old Former Collegiate Basketball Player With Initial Symptoms of Recurrent Bell’s Palsy: A Case Report." UNM Orthopaedic Research Journal 6, 1 (2017). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/unm_jor/vol6/iss1/39
