What characterizes Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is primarily characterized by inflammation and demyelination within the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord. The underlying pathology involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the myelin sheath, a protective covering that surrounds nerve fibers, leading to multiple areas of damage or lesions in the CNS white matter.

The presence of multiple foci of demyelination reflects the scattered nature of the disease, as these demyelinated areas can occur in various regions of the CNS. This inflammatory process contributes to the symptoms experienced by those with MS, which can vary widely based on the locations and extent of the lesions. As a result, option B accurately captures the essential features of MS related to its pathophysiology, offering a clear understanding of the disease's characteristic processes.