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Fatigue, depression and disability accumulation in multiple sclerosis: a cross-sectional study
M Koch1, J Mostert, M Heerings
1Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands. m.w.koch@neuro.umcg.nl
European Journal of Neurology
|June 4, 2009
Summary
In multiple sclerosis (MS), fatigue and depression are closely linked but not directly caused by the extent or progression of physical disability. This finding highlights the importance of addressing these symptoms independently of disability measures.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Fatigue and depression are common and debilitating symptoms in multiple sclerosis (MS).
- The relationship between these symptoms and the physical progression of MS is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine how physical disability and its accumulation rate impact fatigue and depression in a large MS patient cohort.
- To identify factors associated with severe fatigue and depressive symptoms in MS.
Main Methods:
- 412 MS patients completed the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CESD).
- Data on demographics and disease specifics were collected.
- Multivariable logistic regression analyzed associations between Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS), CESD, FSS, and severe fatigue/depression, adjusting for confounders.
Main Results:
- CESD scores were independently linked to severe fatigue.
- FSS scores and female gender were independently linked to clinically significant depressive symptoms.
- Neither EDSS nor MSSS scores showed an independent association with fatigue or depression.
Conclusions:
- Fatigue and depression are strongly interconnected in MS patients.
- The degree of physical disability or its progression rate does not independently predict fatigue or depression in MS.
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