2010 McDonald criteria in a pediatric cohort: Is positivity at onset associated with a more aggressive multiple sclerosis course?

The 2010 McDonald criteria allow the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) at first attack in children and adults provided that the first attack symptoms are typical of MS and that the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) conforms to prescribed features. We evaluate whether meeting the 2010 McDonald criteria at onset correlates with a more aggressive clinical course in a cohort of pediatric MS patients. The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and annualized relapse rate were not associated with positivity for 2010 McDonald criteria at onset. The 2010 McDonald criteria identify children with similar MS features to those identified by clinical or MRI evidence of dissemination over time.