COVID-19 and its implications on the clinico-radiological course of multiple sclerosis: A case-control study

Mohammad Rahmani1, Abdorreza Naser Moghadasi2, Shayan Shahi3

  • 1Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Medicina Clinica
|September 11, 2022
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

COVID-19 infection may worsen multiple sclerosis (MS) severity, increasing disability scores and new MRI lesions in relapsing-remitting MS patients. However, COVID-19 did not impact relapse rates during the 12-month follow-up period.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Immunology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated condition linked to viral infections.
  • The potential impact of COVID-19 on MS severity requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the relationship between COVID-19 infection and multiple sclerosis (MS) severity.
  • To assess the effect of COVID-19 on clinical and radiological outcomes in RRMS patients.

Main Methods:

  • A case-control study involving 362 relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients.
  • Patients were grouped based on COVID-19 PCR status and followed for 12 months.
  • Clinical assessments and MRI scans were performed at baseline and 12 months.

Main Results:

  • COVID-19 positive MS patients showed significantly increased MRI lesions and EDSS scores.
  • COVID-19 infection correlated positively with EDSS progression and new MRI lesions.
  • COVID-19 predicted an increased likelihood of new MRI lesions (OR: 5.92).

Conclusions:

  • COVID-19 may increase disability and new MRI lesions in RRMS patients.
  • No significant difference in relapse rates was observed between COVID-19 positive and negative groups.
  • COVID-19 infection is associated with heightened disease activity in MS.

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