Neuropsychological aspects of multiple sclerosis

Since S. Rao's ["Neuropsychology of Multiple Sclerosis: A Critical Review," A Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology, Vol. 85, pp. 503-542] (1986) seminal review, considerable research has been undertaken on the neuropsychological consequences of multiple sclerosis. This review incorporates the research literature of the last decade in presenting an overview of the current state of our knowledge concerning the etiology, course, symptoms, assessment, consequences, and treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). The concept of subcortical dementia is revisited in light of the most recent literature documenting the neuropsychological deficits in patients with MS. The view that cognitively heterogeneous patient groups may disguise more specific patterns of focal neuropsychological impairment is considered. A critical review of the recent literature is also presented, detailing the degree to which recent research has addressed the areas of research need identified by Rao in 1986. Given recent advances in our knowledge, the need for more attention to be directed toward the evaluation of rehabilitation and psychological intervention is highlighted.