Multiple sclerosis in Asia and the Middle East shares many similarities with the disease seen in Caucasian populations, but there are notable and important differences. These need to be characterized and defined to enable correct diagnosis. Classifying and diagnosing MS in Asian and Middle Eastern populations were themes of the 2nd MS Forum Pan-Asian conference. Participants also discussed other 'hot topics', such as health economics and research outcome, diagnostic red flags and pitfalls with diagnostic imaging, early magnetic resonance imaging changes, pathology and axonal loss, neuroprotection and childhood MS.