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Updated: May 24, 2026
09:41
Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Cognitive impairment is associated with reduced bone mass in multiple sclerosis
Sonia Batista1, Barbara Teter, Karen Sequeira
1Department of Neurology, Hospitais da Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal. R00 HD060765
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|March 16, 2012
Summary
Cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients is linked to lower bone mineral density (BMD). This suggests MS brain pathology may disrupt bone health regulation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Orthopedics
- Immunology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is linked to reduced bone mineral density (BMD), but causes are unclear.
- Brain regulation of bone homeostasis is a recent discovery.
- MS-related brain pathology may impair bone regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if cognitive impairment (CI) is associated with reduced BMD in MS patients.
- Investigate the link between MS, brain pathology, and bone health.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 56 MS patients (age ≤50, EDSS ≤4.5).
- Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) for BMD measurement.
- Standardized neuropsychological testing (MACFIMS) within one year.
Main Results:
- 23.1% of MS patients had osteopenia or osteoporosis.
- Femur BMD was significantly lower in MS patients with CI (0.89±0.12 g/cm²) vs. without CI (0.99±0.17 g/cm²).
- Cognitively impaired MS patients had higher rates of osteopenia/osteoporosis (59.3% vs. 24.1%).
Conclusions:
- Cognitive impairment is associated with reduced BMD in MS.
- Suggests central mechanisms regulating bone homeostasis are impaired by MS.
- MS-related inflammation and neurodegeneration may directly impact bone health.
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