Cognitive dysfunction in MS: bridging the gap between neurocognitive deficits, neuropsychological batteries and MRI

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the CNS. Its sequelae include both physical and cognitive disability. Advances in neuropsychological testing and screening have led to increased recognition of cognitive impairment in MS; more than half of MS patients have been found to have some degree of cognitive impairment. Strong correlations have been found between neuropsychological testing, brain atrophy and other brain imaging techniques. These tools can aid in the comprehensive evaluation of MS patients. Genetic markers, such as ApoE and brain-derived neurotrophic factor polymorphisms, may also correlate with cognitive impairment in MS. This review details advances in recognizing and predicting cognitive dysfunction in MS. Increased understanding and better evaluation and monitoring of cognitive status in MS may improve the sensitivity of studies designed to test new disease-modifying therapies and interventions for cognitive impairment.

Keywords: :

• cognitive dysfunction
• genetics
• MRI
• multiple sclerosis
• neuropsychological testing

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties. No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript