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Fatigue in multiple sclerosis.
L B Krupp1, L A Alvarez, N G LaRocca
1Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY.
Archives of Neurology
|April 1, 1988
Summary
Multiple sclerosis (MS) fatigue is more frequent and severe than in healthy adults. This disabling symptom is distinct from depression or general impairment, suggesting it
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Fatigue is a common and debilitating symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS).
- The underlying causes and characteristics of MS fatigue are not well understood.
- Its relationship with other MS symptoms requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency, severity, and characteristics of fatigue in patients with MS.
- To differentiate MS fatigue from normal fatigue, depression, and general neurological impairment.
Main Methods:
- Conducted structured interviews with 32 patients diagnosed with MS.
- Interviewed 33 healthy adults as a control group.
- Assessed fatigue, depression, and global impairment levels.
Main Results:
- Fatigue was significantly more frequent and severe in the MS patient group compared to healthy controls.
- MS fatigue showed no correlation with depression.
- MS fatigue was independent of global neurological impairment.
Conclusions:
- Multiple sclerosis fatigue is a distinct clinical entity.
- It is often disabling and can be differentiated from normal fatigue, affective disturbances, and neurological impairment.
- Further research into MS fatigue mechanisms and management is warranted.