Understanding Multiple sclerosis and Related Neuroimmune Disorders in Sub-Saharan Africa

Neuroinflammatory and demyelinating diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD), have historically been underrepresented in African neurological research. In sub-Saharan Africa, the understanding of these conditions remains limited due to underdiagnosis, limited access to neuroimaging, and challenges in laboratory testing for specific biomarkers such as aquaporin-4 and MOG antibodies. Although recent studies indicate a growing recognition of MS and NMOSD in African populations, substantial knowledge gaps persist regarding epidemiology, clinical presentation, genetic predispositions, and environmental influences within the region. The heterogeneity of clinical manifestations, overlapping symptomatology, and the influence of infectious diseases and comorbidities further complicate accurate diagnosis and management.Recent advances in global neuroimmunology have improved the understanding of MS and related disorders, highlighting the role of immunogenetics, antibody-mediated mechanisms, and neuroaxonal pathology. However, few comprehensive studies exist from sub-Saharan contexts, where differences in population genetics, infectious exposures, and health systems may shape disease expression and outcomes uniquely. Preliminary data suggest that patterns of demyelination, response to therapy, and disease progression in African patients might differ from those observed in other populations. Yet, systematic research and robust population-based studies are lacking, limiting both clinical insight and evidence-based decision-making in this region.This Research Topic aims to fill critical gaps by promoting multidisciplinary research on MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD in sub-Saharan Africa. It seeks to define the epidemiological landscape, identify genetic and environmental risk factors, explore sociocultural and healthcare barriers to diagnosis and treatment, and develop regionally adapted clinical guidelines. The goal is to catalyze collaboration among neurologists, immunologists, epidemiologists, and policymakers to improve diagnosis, management, and outcomes for individuals affected by neuroimmune demyelinating disorders across Africa.To gather further insights into the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of these disorders in diverse African populations, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Epidemiological mapping and disease burden of MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD in sub-Saharan Africa• Role of infectious and environmental factors in triggering demyelinating diseases• Advances in diagnostic tools, biomarkers, and imaging approaches suited to low-resource settings• Genetic and immunological profiling of African patients with MS and related disorders• Clinical phenotypes, disease trajectories, and treatment outcomes in sub-Saharan populations• Healthcare system challenges and strategies for regional capacity building and patient support• Comparative studies with other global populations to understand unique regional disease features Topic editors: Dilraj Singh Sokhi, Nabeela Nathoo, Deanna Saylor Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/84263/understanding-multiple-sclerosis-and-related-neuroimmune-disorders-in-sub-saharan-africa