Novel computer-based testing shows multi-domain cognitive dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis.

BACKGROUND

Although cognitive dysfunction is a leading cause of disability and poor quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), it is infrequently tested in routine clinical evaluation. Development of a cognitive testing paradigm that captured MS-related cognitive dysfunction and could be obtained in a routine clinical setting may increase surveillance and recognition of cognitive dysfunction.

OBJECTIVES

This was a pilot study to determine if could find cognitive performance differences between patients with MS and healthy controls (HC). A total of 24 patients with MS and 12 HCs between 18 and 50 years old were enrolled. Baseline testing included an Expanded Disability Scale (EDSS), paced auditory serial additions test (PASAT), symbol digit modalities test (SDMT) and . Subjects then had repeat testing every 1-2 months for a maximum of three tests.

RESULTS

Significant differences were found between MS and HC on SDMT, PASAT, and Total score. Most subtests showed significant differences between MS and HC. scores correlated with both SDMT and PASAT and had high test-retest reliability in HCs.

CONCLUSION

was able to detect multi-domain cognitive dysfunction in MS. Further studies to determine validity of in MS with comparison with neuropsychological testing and sensitivity to clinical change are still needed.