ABSTRACT
Multiple sclerosis (MS) may present with a cognitive impairment as disabling as the physical disabilities. Therefore, routine cognitive evaluation is pivotal. Valid and reliable neuropsychological tests are essential in follow-up and to define future therapeutic interventions.
Objectives
To investigate the correlation between the disabilities of MS patients and their cognitive impairment assessed by the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS).
Methods
Forty patients with definitive diagnoses of MS were selected. The correlation coefficient (r) between the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the neuropsychological tests of BICAMS were calculated.
Results
The correlation was clinically substantial and significant with r = 0.55 (p < 0.01) in the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), 0.54 (p < 0.01) in the Brief Visuospacial Memory Test (BVMT) and 0.40 (p < 0.05) in the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT).
Conclusion
BICAMS has easy and satisfactory application and evaluation for routine visits and presents a significant correlation with the EDSS. Its use may be indicated for screening and monitoring of cognitive impairment in patients with MS.
multiple sclerosis; cognition disorders; disabled persons