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Memory and selective attention in multiple sclerosis: cross-sectional computer-based assessment in a large outpatient
1Institut für Studien zur Psychischen Gesundheit (ISPG), Mannheim, Germany, adler@ispg-mannheim.de.
European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience
|January 25, 2015
Summary
Cognitive impairments significantly affect multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. A computer-based Memory and Attention Test (MAT) revealed substantial episodic short-term memory decline in MS patients, impacting daily life.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- Cognitive impairments significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
- Previous studies faced methodological challenges, limiting representative estimates of cognitive dysfunction prevalence and severity in MS.
- Accurate assessment of cognitive deficits is crucial for managing MS progression and patient well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence and severity of cognitive impairments in a large cohort of multiple sclerosis (MS) outpatients.
- To evaluate the utility of a computer-based Memory and Attention Test (MAT) for routine cognitive assessment in MS.
- To investigate the relationship between cognitive function and disease severity (EDSS score) in MS patients.
Main Methods:
- A computer-based Memory and Attention Test (MAT) was administered to 531 MS outpatients across nine neurological practices.
- Cognitive performance was compared to a control group of 84 age-, sex-, and education-matched healthy individuals.
- The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was used to correlate cognitive function with MS disease severity.
Main Results:
- MS patients exhibited substantially decreased episodic short-term memory, with approximately 20% scoring more than two standard deviations below the control mean.
- Episodic short-term memory scores showed a negative correlation with EDSS scores, indicating greater impairment with increased disability.
- Minor but significant impairments were also observed in verbal short-term memory, episodic working memory, and selective attention in MS patients.
Conclusions:
- Computer-based cognitive assessment using the MAT is effective for routine evaluation of MS outpatients.
- Significant episodic short-term memory deficits are prevalent in MS, correlating with disease severity.
- The MAT provides valuable insights into cognitive dysfunction in MS, aiding in patient management and care.
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