Sex differences in multiple sclerosis.

Sex and sex hormones affect the CNS and the immune system differentially, and thus a sexual dimorphism may be anticipated across arenas in multiple sclerosis (MS). Information from the past few decades has elucidated the impact of sex on broad aspects of MS, such as susceptibility, disease course, and radiologic phenotypes. Specific concerns regarding family planning and managing reproductive issues influenced by MS are likely to arise, given the typical age of onset during reproductive years. Thus, information regarding reproductive health in male and female patients with MS can potentiate the role of the neurologist in the management of these important aspects of clinical care.