[Quality of life and economic cost of multiple sclerosis]

In multiple sclerosis, evaluation of quality of life is important because the patients are usually confronted with a decrease in physical, cognitive and social functioning. Apart from the personal suffering, the financial consequences for these patients and their family and the economic burden for society are enormous. Measurement of health related quality of life is important for the understanding of disease burden and the impact of specific MS treatments. Rising costs associated with new treatments and spending limits have prompted a search for gratter efficiency. Although health economics research can suggest ways to maximize health benefits within fixed budgets it is currently underused in MS. The purpose of this review of the literature is to explain some of the basic principles underlying both quality of life and economic evaluations, and analyse their contribution to understanding and managing patients with MS. Neurologists should not underestimate how dramatic their contributions can be to this maturing field that will influence the future of MS patients care.