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Published on: July 19, 2019
Fatigue, depression, and quality of life in children with multiple sclerosis: a comparative study with other
Anca Florea1, Helene Maurey1, Melanie Le Sauter1
1Pediatric Neurology Department, National Referral Center for Rare Inflammatory Brain and Spinal Diseases, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bicêtre, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Sud, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.
Insights
Children with pediatric multiple sclerosis experience significant fatigue and depression, impacting emotional and school functioning. These invisible symptoms require careful consideration in treatment plans for improved quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Neuroimmunology
- Child Psychology
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Acute Demyelinating Syndromes (ADS) can affect children.
- Understanding the impact of these conditions on children's well-being is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate fatigue, depression, and quality of life (QoL) in children diagnosed with MS.
- To compare these outcomes with children experiencing other forms of ADS.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of children from a national referral center for rare inflammatory brain diseases was studied.
- Standardized scales were used to assess disability, fatigue, depression, and QoL.
Main Results:
- While not statistically significant, fatigue was reported less in MS patients (44%) than ADS patients (63%).
- Depression was more prevalent in the MS group (24%) compared to the ADS group (18%).
- Children with MS reported poor emotional and school functioning, while physical and social functioning were rated higher.
Conclusions:
- Fatigue and depression are significant concerns in pediatric MS and ADS.
- Emotional and academic functioning are key areas of concern for children with MS and their families, necessitating tailored care.
- Addressing these 'invisible' symptoms is vital for comprehensive pediatric MS and ADS management.
Aim:
To evaluate fatigue, depression, and quality of life (QoL) of children with multiple sclerosis and compare to other acute demyelinating syndromes (ADS).
Method:
Children followed in the National Referral Centre of rare inflammatory brain and spinal diseases were included in this study. The Expanded Disability Status Scale, the fatigue severity scale, the Multiscore Depression Inventory for Children, and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory were used for evaluation.
Results:
Thirty-seven children (23 females, 14 males) were included in this study. Multiple sclerosis was diagnosed in 26 children and ADS in 11 children. Although not significant, severe fatigue was less frequently reported by patients with multiple sclerosis than children with ADS (44% vs 63%, p=0.2). Depression was reported more often in the multiple sclerosis group compared to the ADS group (24% vs 18%, p=0.6). Concerning the QoL in patients with multiple sclerosis, both parents and children reported poor emotional and school functioning. Physical and social functioning were rated as being good in both groups, and was significantly higher in the children's group (p=0.007).
Interpretation:
This study highlights the importance of fatigue and depression in children with ADS and particularly in paediatric onset multiple sclerosis. Moreover, difficulties in school and emotional functioning were the main concerns for parents and children in the multiple sclerosis group which need to be taken in account during their care and treatment proposal.
What This Paper Adds:
Invisible signs such as fatigue and depression affect all forms of acute demyelinating syndromes (ADS) in children. Depression seems to be higher in children with multiple sclerosis than with other forms of ADS. Fatigue seems to be lower in children with multiple sclerosis than with other forms of ADS. Children with multiple sclerosis and their parents are most concerned with emotional and academic functioning.
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