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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
09:41
Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Memory decline evolves independently of disease activity in MS
B Duque1, J Sepulcre, B Bejarano
1Department of Neurology, Clinica Universitaria de Navarra and Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Spain.
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|June 25, 2008
Summary
Verbal memory declines in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients over two years, irrespective of disease activity or cognitive status at study onset. This cognitive decline is an early feature of MS.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS) and its link to disease activity requires further investigation.
- The natural history of cognitive changes in MS is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate cognitive changes in a prospective cohort of MS patients over two years.
- To explore the relationship between cognitive decline, disease activity (relapses, disability progression), and baseline cognitive status.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 44 MS patients followed for 2 years.
- Cognitive function assessed using the Brief Repeatable Battery-Neuropsychology at baseline and study end.
- Clinical evaluation included relapses and Extended Disability Status Scale (EDSS) changes.
Main Results:
- Verbal memory significantly deteriorated in MS patients after 2 years.
- Cognitive decline was observed in both stable and active MS patients, regardless of initial cognitive impairment.
- Attention and executive functions (Symbol Digit Modality Test - SDMT) declined in patients with confirmed disability progression, correlating with EDSS changes.
Conclusions:
- Verbal memory decline is a consistent feature in MS patients from the disease's early stages.
- Cognitive deterioration in MS occurs independently of other disease activity parameters like relapses or disability progression.
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