"FloridaMS.org"

What Causes MS?
MS is an “autoimmune” disease (auto means, self), in which the body attacks its own tissue. In MS, this attack would be on the myelin or the cells that make myelin. Many researchers are considering the possibility that people who develop MS may possess an inherited trait that lies dormant and is later triggered by an unknown environmental factor. This factor may be any number of viruses, which triggers the immune system to attack the myelin.

The exact cause of multiple sclerosis has not been determined, but several theories are being considered and thousands of researchers are busy trying to piece the puzzle together. It is most likely caused by a combination of factors.