Pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) may represent up to 10% of all MS cases. Establishing the diagnosis of MS in a child is complicated by the limited diagnostic criteria and the possibility of significant overlap with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Areas covered: This review puts in perspective the potential possibilities given by new pharmacological agents in pediatric MS; focusing on the unmet needs in terms of research development in this field. Expert opinion: The treatment landscape of MS has dramatically changed in the last 5 years. However, children are receiving licensed therapies for adult MS (generally first line therapies) in an arbitrary manner and our understanding of such treatments effects and tolerability in children is limited. Of critical importance, we need clinical trials of newer MS agents in children. Further research is needed to have a positive impact for children with MS.
Keywords: Pediatric multiple sclerosis; disease modifying therapy; oral pharmacological agents.