Erythrocyte membrane fatty acids in patients with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Background

Reports on fatty acids levels in multiple sclerosis remain inconclusive.

Objective

To determine the erythrocyte membrane fatty acid levels in multiple sclerosis patients and correlate with Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale.

Methods

Fatty acid composition of 31 multiple sclerosis and 30 control individuals were measured by gas chromatography.

Results

The membrane phosphatidylcholine C20:4n – 6 concentration was lower in the multiple sclerosis patients when compared to that of the control group, P = 0.04 and it correlated inversely with the EDSS and FSS.

Conclusion

Decrease in C20:4n – 6 in the erythrocyte membrane could be an indication of depleted plasma stores, and a reflection of disease severity.

Keywords

multiple sclerosis outcome measurement relapsing/remitting

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