Uhthoff phenomenon

The Uhthoff phenomenon in the original sense is a temporary deterioration in visual acuity in multiple sclerosis (MS) that occurs after physical exertion . The phenomenon was first described by the ophthalmologist Wilhelm Uhthoff (1853–1927). It is based on a reversible blockage of the conductivity of the previously damaged optic nerve as a result of an increase in body temperature .

The Uhthoff phenomenon in the broader sense also describes the temporary worsening of neurological MS symptoms when the body temperature rises (e.g. during fever, hot baths or in the sauna). More than 80% of people with MS are affected. Here, too, a temperature-related deterioration in the conductivity of demyelinated axons is assumed to be the cause. The Uhthoff phenomenon can also occur in other demyelinating diseases .

In fact, a so-called hot bath test found wide diagnostic use in the 20th century . However, since in individual cases the worsening of the symptoms caused by the increase in body temperature was not reversible, this test is now obsolete .

Because it has to be differentiated from a disease flare-up, the Uhthoff phenomenon remains clinically significant today. Worsening in MS patients due to heat or exertion is also known as a pseudo-relapse .

therapy

The prophylaxis is to prevent significant physical efforts and the avoidance of circumstances that increase the body temperature (eg. As sauna, hot bath, high outdoor temperatures, etc.). The symptomatic complaints can also by wearing cooling clothing such as cooling vests, cooling hoods or cooling jackets limited. Even persistent restrictions can be favorably influenced by cooling.

Individual evidence

1. ↑ W. Uhthoff: Investigations into the eye disorders occurring in multiple herbal sclerosis. In: Arch Psychiatr Nervenkrankh. 1890; 21, pp. 305-410. doi: 10.1007 / BF02226770
2. ^ RF Saul et al.: Visual evoked potentials during hyperthermia. In: J Neuroophthalmol. 1995; 15, pp. 70-78. PMID 7550932
3. ^ TC Guthrie, DA Nelson: Influence of temperature changes on multiple sclerosis: critical review of mechanisms and research potential. In: J Neurol Sci. 1995 Mar; 129, pp. 1-8. PMID 7751837 .
4. ^ AS Malhotra, H. Goren: The hot bath test in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. In: JAMA. 1981; 246, pp. 1113-1114. PMID 7265400
5. ↑ Berger JR, Sheremata WA: Persistent neurological deficit precipitated by hot bath test in multiple sclerosis. In: JAMA. 1983; 249, pp. 1751-1753. PMID 6600798

This article is about a health issue. It is not used for self-diagnosis and does not replace a diagnosis by a doctor. Please note the information on health issues !