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Fatigue and its relationships with cognitive functioning and depression in paediatric multiple sclerosis
B Goretti1, E Portaccio, A Ghezzi
1Department of Neurology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|August 17, 2011
Summary
Fatigue affects many pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and is linked to depression. Assessment challenges in children and adolescents with MS highlight the need for further research.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Neuropsychology
Background:
- Limited data exists on fatigue and its psychosocial impacts in pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Understanding fatigue correlates is crucial for managing this condition in young patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between fatigue, cognitive function, and depression in pediatric MS patients.
- To identify clinical and psychosocial factors associated with fatigue in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of pediatric MS patients and healthy controls underwent fatigue assessment using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory-Multidimensional Fatigue Scale.
- Cognitive functioning was evaluated using a comprehensive neuropsychological battery.
- Depression was assessed via the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) and a psychiatric interview (Kiddie-SADS-PL).
Main Results:
- Fatigue was reported by 9-14% of patients (self-report) and 23-39% (parent-report).
- Significant association found between fatigue and higher depression scores (CDI, p < 0.03).
- Self-reported cognitive fatigue correlated with poorer problem-solving skills; parent-reported cognitive fatigue linked to deficits in verbal learning, processing speed, attention, and comprehension.
Conclusions:
- Fatigue impacts a substantial number of pediatric MS patients.
- The study confirms a link between fatigue and depressive symptoms in pediatric MS.
- Challenges in pediatric fatigue assessment are noted, suggesting areas for future research.
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