Ep80 Faster, Earlier, More Accurate: The Future of MS Diagnosis

<p>MS Australia Deputy CEO Dr Julia Morahan speaks with leading clinician <a href="https://www.msaustralia.org.au/research/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">researchers</a> and MS experts <a href="https://research.monash.edu/en/persons/helmut-butzkueven" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Professor Helmut Butzkueven</a> and <a href="https://research.monash.edu/en/persons/anneke-van-der-walt" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Associate Professor Anneke van der Walt</a> about the updated 2025 McDonald Diagnostic Criteria for multiple sclerosis (MS).</p><p>The revised guidelines aim to diagnose MS earlier and more accurately, helping people access treatment sooner and improve long-term outcomes. The update represents a major step forward in care and quality of life. The panel explores why “time is brain” in MS care, how new MRI and eye imaging technologies are changing diagnosis, and what the updates mean for clinicians and the MS community.</p><p>The discussion also highlights the global collaboration behind the criteria update, including the role of people living with MS in shaping the recommendations, and how <a href="https://www.msbase.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">research</a> from the <a href="https://www.msbase.org/about-us/msbase-foundation/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MSBase Foundation</a> continues to influence MS care worldwide.</p><p>This episode provides practical insight into one of the most significant advances in MS diagnosis and care in recent years and explores:</p><ul><li>Why the 2025 McDonald Diagnostic Criteria matter</li><li>How the new guidelines may reduce delays in diagnosis</li><li>Why earlier MS diagnosis can improve long-term outcomes</li></ul><p>For many people, receiving a diagnosis brings clarity and relief. <a href="https://www.msaustralia.org.au/news/new-report-calls-for-faster-ms-diagnosis-in-australia-on-world-ms-day/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">As echoed</a> by members of MS Australia’s <a href="https://www.msaustralia.org.au/leep/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lived Experience Expert Panel (LEEP)</a>, alongside clinical accuracy these updates help people move forward with confidence, access treatment earlier, and feel supported in their MS journey.</p><p>Explore MS Australia&#39;s new <a href="https://www.msaustralia.org.au/lifestyle" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lifestyle Guide</a> and for helpful, local contacts visit our <a href="https://www.msaustralia.org.au/supports-and-services/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Support and Services</a> page. The revised McDonald Criteria will feature in the <a href="https://worldmsday.org/my-ms-diagnosis-campaign-extended/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2026 World MS Day campaign</a>.</p><p><u><strong>Guests</strong></u></p><p>Professor Helmut Butzkueven is Van Cleef Roet Professor of Neuroscience at Monash University, Director of Neurology, Alfred Care Group at Bayside Health, Head of the Department of Neuroscience, School of Translational Medicine (Alfred Campus), Monash University, and Managing Director of the MSBase Foundation. He is co-recipient of the <a href="https://www.msaustralia.org.au/news/ms-australia-honours-melbourne-neurologist-professor-helmut-butzkueven-with-2025-ms-research-award/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2025 MS Australia MS Research Award</a>.</p><p>Associate Professor Anneke van der Walt is Director, MS and Neuroimmunology and Neuro-ophthalmology at Alfred Health; Head of the MS and Neuro-ophthalmology Group, Department of Neuroscience, School of Translational Medicine at Monash University; and Chief Operating Officer of the MSBase Foundation.</p>