Rev Neurol 2001 Sep 16;33(6):560-7
Garcia Moreno JM, Duque San Juan
P, Izquierdo Ayuso G.
Servicio de Neurologia; Hospital
Universitario Virgen Macarena, Sevilla, 41071, Espana.
OBJECTIVE.
Neuropsychological investigations
over the past 20 years have shown the high prevalence of cognitive dysfunction
in multiple sclerosis, although there are still large gaps. In this article
we review current concepts regarding the different types of neuropsychiatric
disorders, their physiopathology, diagnosis and treatment.
DEVELOPMENT.
We present a classification of the
most important types of cognitive and psychiatric alterations in multiple
sclerosis, and their physiopathology. We review the methods used in diagnosis,
follow up and assessment of these patients. Finally, we analyze the current
treatment available for each of these disorders.
CONCLUSIONS.
Although considerable advances have
been made in understanding the neuropsychological disorders occurring in
multiple sclerosis, there are still many questions to be answered. There
is a need for a unified, agreed, validated battery of neuropsychological
tests for the study of specific cognitive deficits in multiple sclerosis
so that results may be compared. There is also a lack of biological markers
which would help in diagnosis and prognosis. Finally the design and carrying
out of clinical trials in the search for specific, effective drugs for
the treatment of neuroconductual disorders of multiple sclerosis is necessary.
PMID: 11727241 [PubMed - in process]