McDonald Criteria for Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis (2017 Revision)
International Panel on Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis 2017 Revised McDonald Criteria. Used to diagnose MS based on demonstration of dissemination in space (DIS) and dissemination in time (DIT) using clinical attacks and MRI findings. Incorporates CSF oligoclonal bands to substitute for DIT in some scenarios. Published by Thompson et al. 2018.
Score interpretation
Dissemination in space and time demonstrated for the clinical presentation (CSF oligoclonal bands may substitute for DIT).
→ Diagnosis of MS if there is no better explanation — neurology confirmation.
Dissemination in space and/or time not demonstrated.
→ Clinically isolated syndrome: follow up with MRI per neurology.
Interpretation bands for the McDonald Criteria MS. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Thompson AJ et al. Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis: 2017 revisions of the McDonald criteria. Lancet Neurol. 2018;17(2):162-173.
- NICE MS Guidelines. Managing multiple sclerosis: evidence review. NICE. 2022.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Cladribine · Multiple Sclerosis — Disease-Modifying Therapy
- Aciclovir 800mg Tablets (Ramsay Hunt Syndrome / Herpes Zoster Oticus) · Antiviral — nucleoside analogue (herpes zoster treatment)
- Pramipexole (Restless Legs Syndrome — Elderly) · Dopamine Agonist (D2/D3 Receptor)
- Topiramate · Anticonvulsant (Multiple Mechanisms)
- Zonisamide · Antiepileptic — Multiple Mechanisms
- Lissamine Green 1% Eye Drops · Vital Dye — Ocular Surface Staining (Dry Eye Diagnosis)
- Acute Stroke / TIA Assessment · NICE NG128; RCP Stroke Guidelines 2023
- Status Epilepticus (Adults) · NICE CG137; ESEM guidelines; RCP Neurology Guidelines
- Suspected Subarachnoid Haemorrhage · NICE NG228; RCEM 2023; AHA/ASA 2023
- Adult Head Injury · NICE NG232 (2023)
- Bell's Palsy / Facial Nerve Palsy · ENT UK 2017; AAN
- Vertigo Workup · ENT UK; NICE CKS
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.
