A secondary analysis was undertaken to compare patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of individuals who did and did not convert to clinically definite multiple sclerosis (CDMS) approximately 5 years after their first clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). Patients included in the analysis were participating in a long-term extension (called CHAMPIONS) of the Controlled High-Risk Avonex® Multiple Sclerosis Prevention Study (CHAMPS). The Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Inventory (MSQLI), a battery including the Short Form Health Status Survey (SF-36) and nine disease-specific scales, was administered to participants 5 years after their initial symptoms suggestive of MS (randomization into the CHAMPS study). Of 203 CHAMPIONS patients, 188 (93%) completed the MSQLI at enrollment into this extension study. Of these, 79 (42%) converted to CDMS. Statistically significant differences (P < .001) between those who did and did not convert to CDMS were found for 4 of the 11 MSQLI scales: the SF-36 Physical Component Summary, the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, the Pain Effects Scale, and the Bladder Control Scale. Trends not meeting our criteria for statistical significance (P > .001 but < .01) were observed for the SF-36 Mental Component Summary, the Perceived Deficits Questionnaire, and the Mental Health Inventory. SF-36 scores for patients not converting to CDMS over 5 years were similar to those reported for age-matched normal controls. No other demographic or disease-related factors were associated with these PROs. When stratified by Expanded Disability Status Scale score, patients who converted to CDMS demonstrated statistically significant differences on the same four scales defined above that differentiated those who did and did not convert to CDMS. These data show that individuals who have CDMS but limited disability demonstrate clear evidence of diminished health-related quality of life.
(172) Prevalence of pain and associations with functioning and quality of life in individuals newly-diagnosed with multiple sclerosis
