Multiple Sclerosis Exacerbation Associated With High-Altitude Climbing Exposure

Abstract The spectrum of the neurological effects of high-altitude exposure can range from high-altitude headache and acute mountain sickness, to the more severe end of the spectrum with high-altitude cerebral edema. In general, patients with known unstable preexisting neurological conditions and those patients with residual neurological deficits from a preexisting neurological condition are discouraged from climbing to high altitudes because of the risk of exacerbation or worsening of symptoms. Although multiple sclerosis exacerbations can be triggered by environmental factors, high-altitude exposure has not been reported as a potential trigger. We are reporting the case of a multiple sclerosis exacerbation presenting in an active duty U.S. Air Force serviceman upon ascending and descending Mt. Fuji within the same day.