Correlation between brain magnetic resonance imaging, cognitive dysfunction and physical dysability in multiple sclerosis

Abstract

BackgroundMontreal Cognitive Assessment test (MoCA) is a brief, sensitive test that has been recommended as a reliable tool to detect mild cognitive impairment. Associations between brain imaging measures and cognitive functioning have been observed in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).ObjectivesTo evaluate cognitive dysfunction and physical disability in MS patients by making correlation between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), MoCA test, and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS).MethodsFifty MS patients and 25 controls underwent clinical evaluation and assessment of cognitive functions using the MoCA test. In addition, all MS patients underwent conventional MRI brain and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS).ResultsThe scores for trail making test, memory, attention, serial seven subtractions, fluency, naming, and orientation in MS patients were significantly different from control (p < 0.05). There was significant inverse correlation between number of MS plaques in the temporal lobe and abstraction (p < 0.001, r = − 0.52). Less inverse correlation was found between total number of MRI plaques and concentration, total number of MRI plaques and abstraction, and infratentorial lesions and clock drawing test. No correlations were found between the number of MS plaques in frontal, parietal, occipital, corpus callosum, and neuropsychological tests.ConclusionAlthough conventional MRI techniques are crucial in the MS diagnostic workup, their accuracy in evaluating and predicting cognitive dysfunction is less relevant. The MoCA test would provide a brief screen for cognitive dysfunction in MS.