Psychoses onset in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

I Ketata1, E Ellouz1, A Ketata2

  • 1Neurology Department, University Hospital of Gabes, 6014 Gabes, Tunisia; Sfax University, Faculty of Medicine, Sfax, Tunisia.

Revue Neurologique
|April 16, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Psychosis can occur in multiple sclerosis (MS), sometimes before diagnosis. Certain brain lesions may trigger psychosis after MS onset, and MS-specific treatments can be effective for managing these challenging symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Psychiatry
  • Neuroimmunology

Background:

  • Psychotic symptoms are infrequently studied in multiple sclerosis (MS).
  • Existing case reports show inconsistent findings regarding psychosis in MS.
  • This study aimed to clarify the timing and characteristics of psychosis in MS patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the timing of psychosis onset in relation to multiple sclerosis diagnosis.
  • To examine the specific characteristics and types of psychosis observed in MS cases.
  • To identify potential associations between neurological findings and psychosis in MS.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review and meta-analysis of case reports and case series.
  • Searched multiple databases including MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Cochrane.
  • Data analysis performed using SPSS 26, adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines.

Main Results:

  • Reviewed 43 cases; bipolar disorder and schizophrenia (SCZ) were most common.
  • Psychosis often preceded or coincided with MS diagnosis.
  • White matter lesions were associated with psychosis onset after MS diagnosis; 59.4% had treatment-resistant psychosis.
  • Favorable outcomes were more common in relapsing-remitting MS.

Conclusions:

  • Highlights the need to consider MS in patients presenting with psychosis, particularly schizophrenia or treatment-resistant cases.
  • Specific white matter lesions may precipitate psychosis post-MS diagnosis.
  • While challenging, psychosis in MS can be effectively managed with MS-specific treatments.

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