scholarly journals Assessment of Early Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Clinically Isolated Syndromes and Multiple Sclerosis

2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-5 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leyla Baysal Kıraç ◽  
Özgül Ekmekçi ◽  
Nur Yüceyar ◽  
Ayşe Sağduyu Kocaman
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Word Association ◽  
Depression Scale ◽  
Cognitive Status ◽  
Hamilton Depression Scale ◽  
Definite Diagnosis ◽  
Clock Drawing Test ◽  
Clinically Isolated Syndromes ◽  
Serial Addition

Objective. The aim of our study was to investigate the frequency and pattern of cognitive impairment in patients with clinically isolated syndromes and definite diagnosis of multiple sclerosis within the last 2 years.Methods. We assessed the cognitive status of 46 patients aged 18–49 years with clinically isolated syndromes or definite diagnosis of multiple sclerosis who have onset of their symptoms within the last 2 years. Patients were matched with 40 healthy participants for age, sex, and educational level. Neuropsychological assessment was performed by stroop test, paced auditory serial addition test (PASAT), controlled oral word association test (COWAT), clock drawing test, trail making test (TMT), faces symbol test (FST). Hamilton Depression Scale and Modified Fatigue Impact Scale were used to quantify the severity of any depression and fatigue the subjects might suffer.Results. 19.6% of early MS/CIS group failed at 4 and more tests and had significant cognitive impairment focused on attention, executive functions, memory, and learning. No significant relationship was found between cognitive impairment and disability and fatigue scores.Discussion. Cognitive impairment can be present from the earliest stage of multiple sclerosis. It should be considered among the main manifestations of MS even in the earliest stages of the disease.

scholarly journals The Impact of Cognitive Dysfunction on Locomotor Rehabilitation Potential in Multiple Sclerosis

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 ◽  
pp. 117957351988404
Author(s):  
Stijn Denissen ◽  
Alexander De Cock ◽  
Tom Meurrens ◽  
Luc Vleugels ◽  
Ann Van Remoortel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Cognitive Dysfunction ◽  
Word Association ◽  
Verbal Learning ◽  
Cognitive Status ◽  
Attentional Deficits ◽  
Ambulatory Patients ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Locomotor Rehabilitation

Background: Cognitive dysfunction is a frequent manifestation of multiple sclerosis (MS) but its effect on locomotor rehabilitation is unknown. Objective: To study the impact of cognitive impairment on locomotor rehabilitation outcome in people with MS. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis involving ambulatory patients with MS who were admitted for intensive, inpatient, multidisciplinary rehabilitation at the National Multiple Sclerosis Center of Melsbroek between the years 2012 and 2017. The Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Tests (BRB-N) was used to determine the cognitive status of subjects as either impaired (COG–) or preserved (COG+). Locomotor outcome was compared between groups with the difference in 6-minute walk test (6MWT) measured at admission and discharge (Δ6MWT). In addition, individual test scores of the BRB-N for attention (Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test 2” and 3”), visuospatial learning/memory (7/24 Spatial Recall Test), verbal learning/memory (Selective Reminding Test) and verbal fluency (Controlled Oral Word Association Test) were correlated to the Δ6MWT. Results: A total of 318 complete and unique records were identified. Both groups showed a significant within-group Δ6MWT during hospitalization (COG+: 47.51 m; COG–: 40.97 m; P < .01). In contrast, Δ6MWT values were comparable between groups. The odds of achieving a minimal clinical important difference on the 6MWT did not differ significantly between both groups. Only attention/concentration was significantly correlated with Δ6MWT (r = 0.16, P = .013). Conclusion: Cognitive impairment based on BRB-N results appears not to impede locomotor rehabilitation in ambulatory patients with MS. Attentional deficits are correlated to the extent of locomotor rehabilitation, suggesting the presence of a subtle effect of cognition.

Cognitive impairment predicts conversion to multiple sclerosis in clinically isolated syndromes

2009 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 62-67 ◽  
Author(s):  
Valentina Zipoli ◽  
Benedetta Goretti ◽  
Bahia Hakiki ◽  
Gianfranco Siracusa ◽  
Sandro Sorbi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Prognostic Value ◽  
Cox Regression ◽  
Cox Regression Analysis ◽  
Clinically Isolated Syndromes ◽  
Kaplan Meier ◽  
Sizable Proportion ◽  
One Year ◽  
Therapeutic Decision Making

Significant cognitive impairment has been found in 20—30% of patients with clinically isolated syndromes suggestive of multiple sclerosis. In this study we aimed to assess the prognostic value of the presence of cognitive impairment for the conversion to multiple sclerosis in patients with clinically isolated syndromes. All patients with clinically isolated syndromes consecutively referred to our centre since 2002 and who had been followed-up for at least one year underwent cognitive assessment through the Rao’s Battery and the Stroop test. Possible predictors of conversion to clinically definite multiple sclerosis were evaluated through the Kaplan Meier curves and Cox regression analysis. A total of 56 patients (41 women; age 33.2 ± 8.5 years; expanded disability scale score 1.2 ± 0.7) were recruited. At baseline, 32 patients (57%) fulfilled McDonald’s criteria for dissemination in space. During the follow-up (3.5 ± 2.3 years), 26 patients (46%) converted to a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. In particular, 64% of patients failing ≥ 2 tests and 88% of patients failing ≥ 3 tests converted to multiple sclerosis. In the Cox regression model, the failure of at least three tests (HR 3.3; 95% CI 1.4—8.1; p = 0.003) and the presence of McDonald’s dissemination in space at baseline (HR 3.8; 95% CI 1.5—9.7; p = 0.005), were found to be predictors for conversion to multiple sclerosis. We conclude that cognitive impairment is detectable in a sizable proportion of patients with clinically isolated syndromes. In these subjects cognitive impairment has a prognostic value in predicting conversion to multiple sclerosis and may therefore play a role in therapeutic decision making.

Early detection of cognitive dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis: Implications on outcome

2019 ◽  
Vol 21 (2) ◽  
pp. 208-216
Author(s):  
Maged Abdel Naseer ◽  
Shereen Fathi ◽  
Dalia M. Labib ◽  
Dalia H. Khalil ◽  
Alshaimaa M. Aboulfotooh ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Early Detection ◽  
Negative Correlation ◽  
Cognitive Rehabilitation ◽  
Word Association ◽  
Significant Negative Correlation ◽  
Fiber Layer ◽  
Rnfl Thickness ◽  
Increased Risk

AbstractObjective:Cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS) has a complex relationship with disease progression and neurodegeneration. The aim of this study was to shed light on the importance of early detection of cognitive impairment in MS patients.Methods:The study comprised two groups of definite MS patients, relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS), each with 25 patients. Physical disability was assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), while the risk of secondary progression was assessed using the Bayesian Risk Estimate for Multiple Sclerosis (BREMS). Cognitive functions were assessed using the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) and Controlled Oral Word Association Test (COWAT). Assessment of neurodegeneration was done using optical coherence tomography (OCT) via quantification of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL).Results:MS patients with higher RNFL thickness demonstrated a larger learning effect size than patients who had lower values in RNFL thickness regardless of MS type. RRMS patients showed significant improvement in delayed recall after giving cues than SPMS. The symbol digit modalities test was the only neuropsychological test that showed a significant negative correlation with EDSS (P = 0.009). There was a statistically significant negative correlation between BREMS scores and performance in all neuropsychological tests.Conclusion:Inclusion of neurocognitive evaluation in the periodic assessment of MS patients is mandatory to detect patients at increased risk of secondary progression. The thickness of RNFL is suggested as a method to estimate the expected benefit of cognitive rehabilitation, regardless of MS type.

scholarly journals Detecting Subtle Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment

2020 ◽  
Vol 47 (5) ◽  
pp. 620-626 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kim Charest ◽  
Alexandra Tremblay ◽  
Roxane Langlois ◽  
Élaine Roger ◽  
Pierre Duquette ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Cognitive Deficits ◽  
Cognitive Assessment ◽  
Cognitive Status ◽  
Montreal Cognitive Assessment ◽  
Rapid Screening ◽  
Cognitive Complaints ◽  
Subjective Complaints ◽  
Subjective Cognitive Complaints

ABSTRACT:Background:Although cognitive deficits are frequent in multiple sclerosis (MS), screening for them with tools such as the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test is usually not performed unless there is a subjective complaint. The Multiple Sclerosis Neuropsychological Questionnaire (MSNQ) is among the instruments most commonly used to assess self-reported subjective complaints in MS. Nonetheless, it does not always accurately reflect cognitive status; many patients with cognitive deficits thus fail to receive appropriate referral for detailed neuropsychological evaluation. The objective of this study was to examine the validity of the MoCA test to detect the presence of objective cognitive deficits among patients with MS without subjective complaints using the Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Function in MS (MACFIMS) as the gold standard.Methods:The sample included 98 patients who were recruited from a university hospital MS clinic. The MSNQ was used to select patients without subjective cognitive complaints who also completed the MACFIMS, MoCA test and MSQOL-54.Results:23.5% of patients without subjective cognitive complaints had evidence of objective cognitive impairment on the MACFIMS (z score < -1.5 on two or more tests). The MoCA had a sensitivity of 87% and a specificity of 68% for detecting objective cognitive impairment in this patient population using a cut-off score of 27.Conclusion:A significant proportion of patients without self-reported cognitive impairment do have evidence of cognitive deficits on more exhaustive cognitive assessment. The MoCA is a rapid screening test that could be used to target patients for whom a more detailed neuropsychological assessment would be recommended.

scholarly journals Quality of life, depression and fatigue in mildly disabled patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis receiving subcutaneous interferon beta-1a: 3-year results from the COGIMUS (COGnitive Impairment in MUltiple Sclerosis) study

2011 ◽  
Vol 17 (8) ◽  
pp. 991-1001 ◽  
Author(s):  
F Patti ◽  
MP Amato ◽  
M Trojano ◽  
S Bastianello ◽  
MR Tola ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Interferon Beta ◽  
Rating Scale ◽  
Cognitive Status ◽  
Treatment Dose ◽  
Relapsing Remitting ◽  
Composite Scores

Background: The precise relationships among quality of life, depression, fatigue and cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS) are complex and poorly understood. Objective: To assess the effects of subcutaneous interferon beta-1a on quality of life, depression and fatigue over 3 years in the COGIMUS study, and to examine the relationship between these outcomes and baseline cognitive status. Methods: COGIMUS was an observational 3-year trial assessing cognitive function in 459 patients with relapsing–remitting MS treated with subcutaneous interferon beta-1a. Results: In total, 331 patients completed the study (168 received interferon beta-1a, 44 µg subcutaneously three times weekly, and 163 received interferon beta-1a, 22 µg subcutaneously three times weekly). Mean MS Quality of Life-54 (MSQoL-54) composite scores did not change over time. There were no significant differences between groups in MSQoL-54 composite scores when patients were grouped by treatment dose and baseline cognitive status. Mean (standard deviation) Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score decreased from 6.8 (4.9) at baseline to 5.8 (5.9) at year 3. Mean total Fatigue Impact Scale scores were low (<30) at all time points. Conclusion: Quality of life, depression and fatigue remained largely stable over 3 years; no effects of treatment dose or baseline cognitive status were found.

Polymorphisms of the cannabinoid 1 receptor gene and cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis

2007 ◽  
Vol 14 (2) ◽  
pp. 177-182 ◽  
Author(s):  
JA Woolmore ◽  
MJ Stone ◽  
SL Holley ◽  
PM Jenkinson ◽  
A. Ike ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Word Association ◽  
Receptor Gene ◽  
Verbal Learning ◽  
Multiple Linear Regression Model ◽  
Test Sample ◽  
Wisconsin Card Sorting Test ◽  
Card Sorting ◽  
Cnr1 Gene

Cognitive impairment occurs in 45—65% of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The cannabinoid system may potentially be neuroprotective in MS. We examined the relationship between polymorphisms of the CNR1 gene and neuropsychological outcome in MS using a test and confirmatory sample of patients. One hundred and ninety-four MS patients were assessed over five key areas of neuropsychological function, which are most commonly impaired in MS. The first 97 patients formed the test sample. A further confirmatory sample of 97 patients was used to test association found in the test sample. The schedule included: Wisconsin card sorting test 64 version, Rey auditory verbal learning task immediate and delayed scores, controlled oral word association task, judgement of line orientation and symbol digit modalities task. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were typed within the CNR1 gene. For the overall neuropsychological assessment score we used a multiple linear regression model with selected covariates to show that subjects with the AA genotype of the SNP RS1049353 were more impaired (mean -2.47, SD 5.75, P = 0.008, Bonferroni corrected P = 0.024) than the other subjects (mean 0.24, SD 4.24). This was not confirmed when the association was retested in the confirmatory sample. No associations were identified between these CNR1 variants and cognitive impairment in MS. Multiple Sclerosis 2008; 14: 177—182. http://msj.sagepub.com

Comparison of two brief neuropsychological batteries in people with multiple sclerosis

2002 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 169-176 ◽  
Author(s):  
A Solari ◽  
L Mancuso ◽  
A Motta ◽  
L Mendozzi ◽  
C Serrati
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Poor Performance ◽  
Clinical Variable ◽  
Impaired Performance ◽  
Selective Reminding ◽  
Administration Time ◽  
Serial Addition ◽  
The Relationship ◽  
Serial Evaluation

Background: We compared two brief neuropsychological batteries devised to assess people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and used them to assess the relationship between cognitive impairment and clinical characteristics. Methods: We administered either the Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Tests (BRBNT) or the Screening Examination for Cognitive Impairment (SEFCI) to 213 consecutive MS outpatients and 213 individually matched controls. Results: Administration times were longer for BRBNT than SEFCI, for MS and controls (p=0.001). People with MS had lower scores in all individual tests than controls (p<0.001, BRBNT and SEFCI). By the criterion of poor performance on one or more tests, the sensitivity of BRBNT was 41.9% and that of SEFCI 31.5%. The corresponding figures by poor performance on two or more tests were 16.2% for BRBNT and 18.5% for SEFCI. The Buschke Selective Reminding and Paced Auditory Serial Addition were the tests best discriminating between people with MS and controls for BRBNT, and the Symbol Digit Modalities test for SEFCI. The only clinical variable independently associated with impaired performance on these batteries was EDSS. Conclusions: Both cognitive batteries were well accepted and easy to administer. Administration time for SEFCI was significantly shorter than for BRBNT; however, alternative forms for serial evaluation are available only for BRBNT. The BRBNT was slightly more sensitive in detecting impairment by the criterion of poor performance on one or more tests. EDSS score was the only clinical variable independently associated with cognitive impairment.

scholarly journals Screening of Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Cross-Sectional Study in Georgia

2021 ◽  
Vol 2021 ◽  
pp. 1-7
Author(s):  
Nazibrola Botchorishvili ◽  
Nino Shiukashvili ◽  
Nina Mikeladze ◽  
Ann Dzagnidze ◽  
Nino Mikava ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Multiple Sclerosis ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Cognitive Assessment ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Cognitive Status ◽  
Screening Tools ◽  
Cognitive Test ◽  
Favorable Effect ◽  
Common Symptom ◽  
Disability Status

Cognitive impairment (CI) is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), with a significant negative impact on the occupational and social functioning of patients. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and characteristics of CI among MS patients in Georgia. Sixty-eight patients with MS attending a neurology outpatient clinic in Tbilisi, Georgia, were enrolled in the study. Cognitive status was evaluated using two screening tools: the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. The overall prevalence of CI in our MS patients was 47%. We found negative associations between cognitive test results and patients’ age, disability status, and depression. Lower education, higher scores on the Expanded Disability Status Scale, and the progressive course of MS were the main predictors of CI in the logistic regression analysis. This is the first study in Georgia to evaluate CI in patients with MS. The prevalence of CI in our study was comparable with those reported in other countries; however, we found greater impairment of the executive system compared to other cognitive domains. In our study, patients who were on continuous DMT showed significantly better performance on the cognitive tests used, indicating possible favorable effect of immunomodulatory drugs on cognition.

The Office Assessment of Depression and Cognitive Impairment

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Martin Steinberg ◽  
Paul B. Rosenberg
Keyword(s):  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Activities Of Daily Living ◽  
Daily Living ◽  
Geriatric Depression Scale ◽  
Depression Scale ◽  
The Elderly ◽  
Clock Drawing Test ◽  
Atypical Symptoms ◽  
Cognitive Difficulties ◽  
Patient Health

Changes in mood and/or cognition are common complaints in the elderly population. This chapter uses case studies to illustrate insights to make clinical assessment more efficient. These include assessing for cognitive impairment when depression is present and vice versa, being mindful of assuming that patients reporting cognitive difficulties are “worried well,” avoiding overreaction to very mild symptoms, assessing the four key cortical cognitive domains (amnesia, aphasia, apraxia, agnosia), assessing for subcortical dysfunction, assessing Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), and understanding that depression in the elderly often presents with atypical symptoms. Brief cognitive instruments which can improve assessment include the Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ), Clock Drawing Test (CDT), and the Mini Cog. Brief depression instruments include the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDSS), and Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD).

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