CURING MS: How science is solving the mysteries of multiple sclerosis By Howard L. Weiner 2004. New York: Crown Publishers. Price $24.95 ISBN 0-609-60900-9

Abstract

Everyone needs help with interpretation in an age when information is in the ascendant, and items that claim the imprimatur of fact so often suffer the eventual fate of reclassification as fiction. To be useful, the narrator must synthesize and explain the details, and in language that is sympathetic to the educational and cultural background of the listener. Patients with multiple sclerosis are extremely well informed. They often know a great deal about the mechanisms of their disease and have views on current treatments. They draw their knowledge not only from the lay press, but also commonly by following scientific digests offered by self-help organizations, and some even immerse themselves directly in the scientific literature. Indeed, there is no shortage of disease-related writing by professional medical authors. But would it not be interesting to hear from a real insider about how scientific insights into the disease originate, the uncertain pathway to drug development offering new therapies, and the people and personalities who make the science? Such literature is rare—for a simple reason. Most scientists, brilliant as they may be in their particular fields, are not particularly gifted writers. Howard Weiner, Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, is one of the rare exceptions. Not only is he an internationally leading figure in multiple sclerosis research, but he is also a literary talent. Now, over more than 300 pages, he fills this gap in the literature with a book that leads the reader through the intricate field of multiple sclerosis. During his guided tour, cicerone Weiner touches upon virtually all aspects of multiple sclerosis and related research, covering the general principles as well as specific details. Dr Weiner addresses the history of multiple sclerosis, its various clinical manifestations, the pathogenesis, role of animal models, the complexity of therapeutic trial designs, the …