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Measuring Progressive Neurological Disability in a Mouse Model of Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: November 14, 2016
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Sensorimotor function in progressive multiple sclerosis
Jules D Miehm1, John Buonaccorsi2, Jongil Lim3
1Department of Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, USA.
Multiple Sclerosis Journal - Experimental, Translational and Clinical
|September 18, 2020
Summary
Subtle sensorimotor changes in multiple sclerosis (MS) can be detected using non-ambulatory tests. These tests reveal differences between relapsing-remitting and progressive MS, highlighting the importance of assessing both upper and lower limb function.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- A sensitive test for subtle sensorimotor changes in progressive multiple sclerosis (MS), independent of mobility, is lacking.
- Current assessments may not fully capture disease progression in non-ambulatory MS patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate non-ambulatory upper and lower extremity sensorimotor function.
- To identify potential differences between relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and progressive MS (PMS).
Main Methods:
- Assessed cutaneous sensitivity, proprioception, and central motor function in 32 RRMS, 31 PMS patients, and 30 controls.
- Utilized non-ambulatory measures, including foot-tap and hand-tap speed.
- Compared sensorimotor function with mobility assessed by the 25-foot walk test.
Main Results:
- Cutaneous sensation differed between RRMS and PMS at the foot and hand.
- Proprioception differed between RRMS and PMS in the upper extremity, and in both extremities between MS patients and controls.
- Lower extremity central motor function (foot-tap speed) was impaired in PMS compared to RRMS.
- Non-ambulatory measures were more sensitive than the 25-foot walk test in differentiating RRMS from PMS.
Conclusions:
- Novel insights into sensorimotor function changes in PMS versus RRMS.
- Emphasizes the importance of assessing both upper and lower extremity sensorimotor function.
- Proprioceptive function loss is evident in MS, with greater loss in PMS compared to RRMS.
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