Relationship between apathy and cognitive dysfunctions in multiple sclerosis: A 4-year prospective longitudinal study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Cognitive dysfunction is common in multiple sclerosis (MS), significantly impairing daily life.
• Understanding predictors of cognitive decline is crucial for managing MS progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To model cognitive changes in MS patients over a four-year period.
• To determine if apathy predicts cognitive decline in individuals with MS.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study assessed 67 MS patients at baseline and a 4-year follow-up.
• Cognitive decline was measured using a delta approach; factors associated with change were analyzed via linear regression.

Main Results:

• Higher baseline apathy levels predicted greater cognitive decline, while depression did not.
• Low education level was also associated with cognitive decline.
• Persistent or developing apathy correlated with poorer inhibitory control and executive function decline.

Conclusions:

• Apathy serves as an early indicator of cognitive decline in multiple sclerosis.
• These findings offer significant clinical and prognostic insights for MS management.