Frequent association of multiple sclerosis with varicella and zoster.

BACKGROUND A possible association of multiple sclerosis (MS) with viral diseases has been postulated; in previous studies we have found that in Mexican mestizos the antecedent of varicella during childhood represents a risk factor for the development of MS during adulthood. AIM We conducted a retrospective search for varicella and zoster infections associated with the development of MS. METHODS AND RESULTS In a cohort of 82 consecutive patients with MS we found six cases, four of varicella and two of zoster, that were concurrent with the development or the progress of MS. CONCLUSIONS The association of these pathologies is higher than expected and suggests a possible etiological relationship of the varicella zoster virus with MS.