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Seizure history and cognitive dysfunction in people with multiple sclerosis
David E Freedman1,2, Jiwon Oh3,4, Cecilia Meza2
1Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|March 18, 2025
Summary
Seizures in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) are linked to worse cognitive function. This study found that a history of seizures independently predicts reduced cognitive performance in pwMS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Seizures are known to impair cognition in the general population.
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease affecting cognition and outcomes.
- The relationship between seizures and cognitive dysfunction in people with MS (pwMS) requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between a history of seizures and cognitive function in pwMS.
- To determine if seizures are an independent predictor of cognitive impairment in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 803 pwMS was analyzed, with seizure history as a key variable.
- Cognitive function was assessed using the Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Function in MS (MACFIMS) battery.
- Linear regression models controlled for relevant covariates including age, disability, and disease characteristics.
Main Results:
- PwMS with a seizure history (5.35%) demonstrated significantly poorer performance across multiple cognitive domains compared to those without seizures.
- Specific deficits were observed in visual-spatial processing, verbal learning and memory, and processing speed.
- Statistical analyses confirmed that seizure history independently predicted reduced cognitive function.
Conclusions:
- A history of seizures is an independent predictor of cognitive dysfunction in people with multiple sclerosis.
- These findings highlight the importance of monitoring and managing seizures to potentially mitigate cognitive decline in pwMS.
- Further research may explore the underlying mechanisms linking seizures and cognitive impairment in MS.
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