Restless legs syndrome and multiple sclerosis: a population based case-control study in Catania, Sicily

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease affecting the central nervous system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) in a population-based cohort of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients.
• To investigate the association between RLS and MS.

Main Methods:

• A population-based case-control study was conducted in Catania, Sicily.
• 152 MS patients and 431 age/sex-matched controls were enrolled.
• RLS diagnosis followed the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group criteria.

Main Results:

• RLS prevalence was significantly higher in MS patients (14.5%) compared to controls (6.0%).
• MS patients had an almost threefold increased risk of RLS (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.4-5.0).
• Spinal cord lesions in MS patients were associated with a higher risk of RLS (OR 3.7, 95% CI 1.1-13.5).

Conclusions:

• RLS is strongly associated with Multiple Sclerosis.
• The risk of RLS is significantly elevated in MS patients, particularly those with spinal cord lesions.