Which body system is primarily affected by multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis primarily affects the nervous system. This chronic autoimmune condition targets the myelin sheath, which is the protective covering of the nerves in the central nervous system. When the immune system mistakenly attacks this sheath, it leads to communication breakdowns between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms can range from physical disabilities to cognitive changes, reflecting the extensive role that the nervous system plays in coordinating and processing information throughout the body.

The muscular system, while it may experience secondary effects due to muscle weakness or atrophy from nervous system damage, is not directly impacted by multiple sclerosis in the way the nervous system is. Similarly, the circulatory and respiratory systems are not directly affected by this illness, as they do not involve the autoimmune processes that characterize multiple sclerosis. Understanding this distinction is crucial for recognizing the implications of the disease on patient care and treatment options.