demielinizacje

Demyelination is a process where the myelin sheath, a fatty insulating layer that surrounds nerve fibers (axons) in the central and peripheral nervous systems, is damaged or destroyed. Myelin is crucial for the rapid transmission of electrical signals along nerves. When myelin is lost, nerve conduction is slowed or blocked, leading to a variety of neurological symptoms.

The most common cause of demyelination is autoimmune attack, where the body's own immune system mistakenly targets and damages myelin. This is the underlying mechanism in diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS), which affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Other causes can include infections, toxins, metabolic disorders, and nutritional deficiencies.

Symptoms of demyelination vary greatly depending on the location and extent of the damage. They can include problems with vision (such as blurred vision or double vision), muscle weakness, numbness or tingling sensations, difficulties with coordination and balance, fatigue, and cognitive impairments.

Treatment for demyelinating diseases often focuses on managing the underlying cause, reducing inflammation, and helping the nervous system to repair itself or compensate for the damage. While some demyelination can be repaired, significant or widespread loss of myelin can lead to permanent neurological deficits. Research continues to explore new therapies to promote myelin repair and halt the progression of these conditions.