b'Natalie BlakeKasey Minnis Executive Director Executive DirectorEach year, we attend key MS conferences very specic to MS: the central vein sign and such as the Americas Committee for Treatmentthe presence of paramagnetic rim lesions and Research in MS, the American Academy(see the article Alphabet Soup on page 7). of Neurology, and the Consortium of MSFindings of these definite signs indicate a Centersto hear from researchers andhigh likelihood that the lesions are from MS gather the latest news in MS care. This year,and not a look-alike condition. These new more than ever before, these conferencesstandards will help to improve the speed felt energized. Attendees were buzzing aboutand accuracy of MS diagnosis. exciting new approaches to identifying andACTRIMS researchers examined these and tracking MS. other new potential markers of MS progression. The energy had started to build, beginningSerumlevelsofneurolamentlightchain with ECTRIMS in September 2024, when the(sNFL, see page 7) were a hot topic. But dozens upcoming changes to the diagnostic criteriaof potential markers, from retinal thickness for MS were rst announced. By the time theto telomere length to circulating cytokines in AAN rolled around in the spring of 2025, majorthe bloodstream were explored.focus was directed toward training neurologistsWhile not all of the biomarkers under to implement these new criteria, which are likelyconsideration will prove to be useful in to be published later this year. In a presentationdiagnosing and treating MS, this wave of on these new guidelines, Dr. Jiwan Oh sharedadvancementpromisesmoreaccurate that for the rst time, there are imaging measuresdiagnosis and more personalized and effective being introduced beyond the presence of T2managementofMSinthefuture.Stay lesions. This includes two new imaging measurestuned for more developments in this area. MS Focus on ActionStay informed, stay empowered. MS Focus on Action is a non-partisan advocacy newsletter dedicated to keeping the MS community up to date on the latest healthcare policy developments. From legislative changes to disability rights, we simplify information on how shifting political landscapes can impact the lives of people with MSand how you can take action. Because your voice matters in every decision that affects your health. 5 msfocusmagazine.org'