Impact of Cognitive and Psychological Functions in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: A Cross-Sectional Study

To compare the cognitive functions and trait anxiety in patients diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) to those of matched healthy controls (HCs). In addition, the study aims to investigate the correlations among cognitive functions, anxiety, depression, and quality of life (QOL) in this clinical population.

The sample included RRMS patients ( n = 21) and an equal number of age-, education-, and sex-matched HCs. Participants were assessed on the Indian version of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV, auditory and visual learning and memory, and visual-spatial construction and memory. RRMS patients were also assessed for levels of anxiety, depression, and their QOL. Comparative analyses between RRMS patients and HCs were carried out for neuropsychological assessments. Correlations among cognitive functions, anxiety, depression, and QOL in RRMS patients were examined.

RRMS patients showed significant deficits across various cognitive domains, including processing speed and verbal learning, compared to HCs ( P < 0.05). In addition, they reported higher levels of trait anxiety compared to HCs ( P < 0.01), along with moderate state anxiety and mild depression. A significant correlation among anxiety, depression, and QOL was observed in RRMS patients.

This study highlights significant cognitive impairments and psychological distress experienced by RRMS individuals, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive care addressing both cognitive impairments and psychological distress to enhance QOL.