Is multiple sclerosis progressive and fatal?

Prog.disease: There is a variant form of MS that is very aggressive that can lead to coma or death. However most of the other forms do not have such a grave prognosis. If left untreated >30 % of patients will develop significant disability within 20->25 years after onset. Life expectancy is shortened only slightly, death usually results from secondary complications.

Possible, but: If treated aggressively with newer drugs such as Tysabri (natalizumab) or Gilenya, may well have normal lifespan. The primary and secondary progressive forms, however, are tougher to treat, and may acquire secondary infections. The DMT's used, can help prevent progression and disability. The main variation which is dangerous, is the Marburg form, an aggressive serious variation of childhood MS.