demyelination
Loss of myelin sheath around nerve fibers, a key pathological process in many neuroimmunological disorders.
Full Definition
Demyelination refers to the damage or loss of the myelin sheath that normally surrounds and insulates nerve fibers (axons) in the central and peripheral nervous systems. This process is central to the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, and other inflammatory neurological diseases. Demyelination disrupts normal nerve signal transmission, leading to neurological symptoms such as weakness, sensory disturbances, and cognitive impairment. The process can be visualized on MRI as characteristic lesions and may be reversible through remyelination processes. Understanding demyelination patterns helps clinicians distinguish between different neuroimmunological conditions.
Usage
Usage note: Can be used as both a noun and adjective (demyelinating).
In Context
- "The MRI revealed extensive demyelination in the periventricular white matter characteristic of multiple sclerosis." — Imaging report
- "Acute demyelination was evident on the spinal cord biopsy, consistent with transverse myelitis." — Pathology report