Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2025
The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test MSPT: An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
Prevalence of cognitive impairment (CI) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS): A systematic review and
Mozhde Askari1, Omid Mirmosayyeb1, Fatemeh Fattahi1
1Isfahan Neurosciences Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
Background:
One of the complications of multiple sclerosis (MS) is cognitive impairment (CI). The prevalence of CI is reported variously in previous studies. The goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate pooled prevalence of CI in patients with MS and also the prevalence of CI based on the type of applied test.
Methods:
Two independent researchers systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and google scholar as well as gray literature (conference abstracts, references of the references) which were published before up January 2022.
Results:
We found 4089 articles by literature search, after deleting duplicates 3174 remained. Ninety articles remained for meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of CI using all types of tests was 41% (95% CI: 38-44%) (I2=91.7%, p<0.001). The pooled prevalence of CI using BRB test was 39% (95%CI: 36-42%) (I2=89%, p<0.001). The pooled prevalence of CI using BICAMS was 44% (95%CI: 37-51%, I2=95.4%, p<0.001). The pooled prevalence of CI using MACFIMS was 44% (95% CI: 36-53%) (I2=89.3%, p<0.001).
Conclusions:
The pooled prevalence of cognitive impairment in patients with MS is estimated as 41%, so CI it should be considered by clinicians.
Insights
Cognitive impairment (CI) affects 41% of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. This systematic review highlights the significant prevalence of CI in MS, urging clinical consideration for this common complication.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Cognitive impairment (CI) is a frequent complication of multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Previous studies report varying prevalence rates for CI in MS patients.
- Accurate prevalence data is crucial for clinical management and research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the pooled prevalence of CI in MS patients.
- To analyze the prevalence of CI based on different assessment tools used in studies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of major databases (PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, Google Scholar) and gray literature.
- Inclusion of studies published up to January 2022.
- Meta-analysis of data from 90 selected articles.
Main Results:
- The overall pooled prevalence of CI in MS patients was 41% (95% CI: 38-44%).
- Prevalence varied by assessment tool: BRB test (39%), BICAMS (44%), and MACFIMS (44%).
- High heterogeneity was observed across studies (I2 > 89%).
Conclusions:
- Cognitive impairment is highly prevalent in multiple sclerosis, affecting an estimated 41% of patients.
- Clinicians should routinely consider and assess for CI in individuals with MS.
- Further research may explore factors influencing CI prevalence across different assessment methods.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Cognitive Enhancers: Cholinesterase Inhibitors and NMDA Receptor Antagonists
01:26Alzheimer's Disease: Overview
The clinical diagnosis of AD hinges on the presence of memory and other cognitive impairments. Biomarkers, such as changes in Aβ...
01:30Cognitive Development During Adulthood