Einflussfaktoren auf die Diagnosedauer bei MS-Patienten: Evidenz für einen Yentl-Effekt

Abstract

Factors influencing the duration of diagnosing a Multiple Sclerosis

Problem: This survey analyses if there are factors influencing the duration of diagnosing a Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Method: In 2003 in cooperation with the German Multiple Sclerosis Association an anonymous standardized questionnaire was sent to 2012 members in Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt. 995 patients were included, 72% female and 18% male. The average age was 49,6 years. Patients are knowing diagnosis “MS” for about 12,1 years. In average beginning of symptoms was at the age of 31,5 years and age of diagnosis 37,5 years.

Results: The duration of diagnosing MS took about 6 years. Parameters as gender, age at the first symptoms and moment of diagnosis significantly influence duration of diagnosing a Multiple Sclerosis. Males were significantly earlier diagnosed than females. The higher the age at first symptoms the earlier patients were diagnosed. Especially in younger patients the duration of diagnosis can reach > 15 years. Patients were diagnosed faster during the last decades.

Conclusion: Gender, age at beginning of symptoms and moment of diagnosis influence the duration of diagnosis. Main therapist of MS is the established neurologist and the family doctor or general practitioner. Therefore they should be sensitised for this gender and age problem.