Multiple sclerosis and malabsorption.

Malabsorption tests were studied in 52 patients with multiple sclerosis. The stools were examined microscopically for fat and undigested meat fibers and were found to be abnormal in 41.6 and 40.9% respectively. Abnormally low five hour excretion of d-xylose was demonstrated in 26.6% cases. Malabsorption of Vitamin B12 was found in 11.9% cases. The jejunal mucosa was examined histologically and by tissue immune technic including viral studies. Histology showed normal mucosa in all except seven patients in whom an increased inflammatory infiltrate was present. Fluorescent antibody studies revealed the presence of measles virus antigen in all patients and immunofluorescent studies showed a variable degree of immune reaction in the majority of cases. The significance of these findings in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis is discussed.