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The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test MSPT: An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
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Does fatigue occur in MS patients without disability?
Helcio Alvarenga-Filho1, Regina Maria Papais-Alvarenga, Sonia Regina Carvalho
1Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro , Neurologia, Rio de Janeiro , Brazil.
The International Journal of Neuroscience
|April 5, 2014
Summary
Fatigue is common in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients even without motor issues, linked to the disease, inactivity, and mood disorders. The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) doesn
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) commonly causes motor dysfunction and fatigue.
- Fatigue assessment in MS patients often relies on walk tests and scales, even in those with varying disability levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate both objective and subjective fatigue in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients who exhibit no motor disability.
- To identify factors associated with fatigue in early-stage MS.
Main Methods:
- Selected MS patients (relapsing-remitting, EDSS 0-1.5) and age/gender/BMI/activity-matched controls.
- Excluded participants with fatigue from other medical conditions.
- Administered the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), MS Functional Composite (MSFC), Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS), and Beck Depression Inventory.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in MSFC or 6MWT between MS patients and controls.
- 35% of MS patients reported fatigue (MFIS), with significant differences in physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains compared to controls.
- Fatigue in MS was associated with the disease, low physical activity, and mood disorders.
Conclusions:
- Fatigue is prevalent in MS patients even without motor impairment.
- Sedentary lifestyle and mood disorders are linked to fatigue in MS.
- The 6MWT is not a reliable indicator of motor fatigue in MS patients without neurological disability.
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