Uhthoff phenomenon (multiple sclerosis)

Last revised by Derek Smith on 29 Jun 2021

Uhthoff phenomenon refers to the temporary exacerbation (lasting less than 24 hours) of neurological symptoms secondary to increases in body temperature. This phenomenon is experienced by multiple sclerosis patients, though it also occurs in other demyelinating diseases 1

History and etymology

The phenomenon was named after Wilhelm Uhthoff (1853-1927), a German ophthalmologist. 

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