What percentage of patients may experience Lhermitte's sign?

Lhermitte's sign is a specific neurological symptom often associated with multiple sclerosis and can manifest as an electric shock-like sensation that runs down the spine and into the limbs. This phenomenon is related to demyelination in the cervical spinal cord, which is a common feature in multiple sclerosis.

The percentage of patients experiencing Lhermitte's sign is approximately 20% to 40%. The figure cited as 40% aligns most closely with reported prevalence in various studies, highlighting that while Lhermitte's sign is not universally present, it does affect a significant subset of individuals with multiple sclerosis. This symptom can serve as a critical clinical indicator, helping healthcare providers understand the nature of the neurological dysfunction present in a patient with this condition.

Understanding this symptom's prevalence is essential for diagnostic clarity in multiple sclerosis cases, as well as for developing effective management strategies.