Life In Multiple Sclerosis Patients Research Articles

STORMS: A Pilot Feasibility Study for Occupational TeleRehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis.

Digital solutions in the field of restorative neurology offer significant assistance, enabling patients to engage in rehabilitation activities remotely. This research introduces ReMoVES, an Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) system delivering telemedicine services specifically tailored for multiple sclerosis rehabilitation, within the overarching framework of the STORMS project. The ReMoVES platform facilitates the provision of a rehabilitative exercise protocol, seamlessly integrated into the Individual Rehabilitation Project, curated by a multidimensional medical team operating remotely. This manuscript delves into the second phase of the STORMS pilot feasibility study, elucidating the technology employed, the outcomes achieved, and the practical, professional, and academic implications. The STORMS initiative, as the genesis of digital telerehabilitation solutions, aims to enhance the quality of life for multiple sclerosis patients.

Enhancing Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis Patients Through Coadministration of FDA-Approved Immunomodulators and Melatonin

Objective: The primary goal of this study was to assess the binding characteristics and affinities of melatonin and certain U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved lipophilic drugs used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) with the brain and muscle Arnt-like 1 (BMAL1) clock protein. Additionally, the study aimed to investigate their potential as modulators of BMAL1 activity for therapeutic applications in MS.Methods: Molecular docking and simulation studies were conducted to investigate the interactions between the BMAL1 protein and the selected agents as ligands. Docking simulations were performed using AutoDock Vina, and key interactions were analyzed with Biovia Discovery Studio Visualizer. A molecular dynamics simulation was conducted using GROMACS 2020.4 and the binding free energies were calculated using the molecular mechanics/Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA) method. The pharmacokinetic properties of the ligands were predicted using the BOILED-Egg model implemented in the SwissADME web tool.Results: Melatonin demonstrated the highest binding affinity (-8.5 kcal/mol) and most favorable binding free energy (-245.26±1.27 kJ/mol) with BMAL1, suggesting its potential synergistic activity with other FDA-approved drugs in MS therapy. The pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that all three ligands were likely to cross the blood-brain barrier and exhibit high gastrointestinal absorption, with teriflunomide and melatonin potentially achieving a better profile.Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of concomitant use of melatonin to modulate BMAL1 activity, providing a foundation for developing targeted chronotherapeutic strategies in MS treatment.

Vortioxetine ameliorates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis model of multiple sclerosis in mice via activation of PI3K/Akt/CREB/BDNF cascade and modulation of serotonergic pathway signaling

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition characterized by immune cell infiltration and cytokine overproduction that led to myelin sheath inflammatory assaults, thus causing axonal destruction. The former consequently provokes motor impairment and psychological disorders. Markedly, depression is one of the most prevalent lifelong comorbidities that negatively impacts the quality of life in MS patients. Vortioxetine (VTX), a multi-modal molecule prescribed to manage depression and anxiety disorder, additionally, it displays a promising neuroprotective properties against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. To this end, the present study investigated the potential therapeutic efficacy of VTX against experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS in mice.Notably, treatment with VTX significantly ameliorated EAE-induced motor disability, as evident by enhanced performance in open field, rotarod and grip strength tests, alongside a reduction in immobility time during the forced swimming test, indicating a mitigation of the depressive-like behavior; outcomes that were corroborated with histological examinations and biochemical analyses. Mechanistically, VTX enhanced serotonin levels by inhibiting both serotonin transporter (SERT) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) enzyme, thereby promoting the activation of serotonin 1A (5-HT1A) receptor. The latter triggered the stimulation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) cascade that entailed activation/phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). This activation increased brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and myelin basic protein (MBP) contents that mitigated demyelination in the corpus callosum. Furthermore, VTX suppressed phospho serine 536 nuclear factor kappa B (pS536 NF-κB p65) activity and reduced tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) production. The results underscore VTX's beneficial effects on disease severity in EAE model of MS in mice by amending both inflammatory and neurodegenerative components of MS progression.

Relation between Voiding Dysfunction and Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Relation between Voiding Dysfunction and Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Physical activity as a mediator in the relationship between health locus of control and health-related quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients with different disease duration

BackgroundThe importance of undertaking physical activity for functioning of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) has been repeatedly highlighted. However, the research on the role of physical activity in shaping the quality of life of patients with different disease duration is scarce. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to identify the mediating role of physical activity in the relationship between health locus of control (HLoC) and health-related quality of life in MS patients with varying disease duration. MethodsThe study included 339 patients with MS from rehabilitation centers. The Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29) was used to measure health-related quality of life, physical activity was assessed by the Godin Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ) and the Health Locus of Control Questionnaire was used to measure HLoC. ResultsPhysical activity has been shown to be a mediator in the relationship between intrinsic HLoC and health-related quality of life particularly in patients with longer disease duration. Intrinsic HLoC was positively associated with engaging in physical activity, which in turn was positively associated with the physical component of quality of life in patients with longer (indirect effect: β = −0.077, p < 0.05) and moderate (β = −0.040, p < 0.05) duration of illness. ConclusionThe results highlight the importance of psychological resources for undertaking quality-of-life-related physical activity by MS patients with long disease duration. Particularly important here is the internal HLoC, which promotes physical activity that increases the chance of a high quality of life.

Assessment of Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: The Impact of Dietary Habits, Socio - Demographic and Clinical Characteristics

Assessment of Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: The Impact of Dietary Habits, Socio - Demographic and Clinical Characteristics

Does anxiety, depression, and sleep levels affect the quality of life in patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease characterized by relapses and remissions, causing physical disability and affecting individuals psychosocially. In this study, we aimed to assess anxiety and depression levels, sleep, and quality of life in MS patients. The study included 66 participants, 30 healthy controls, and 36 patients diagnosed with MS. All participants were administered the Sociodemographic and Clinical Data Form, Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Instrument (MSQOL-54), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). The PSQI, EDSS, BDI, and BAI scores of MS patients were found to be significantly higher, while the MSQOL-54 score was considerably lower than the healthy control group (p<0.001). In the patient group, there was a positive correlation between PSQI score and BDI (r=0.599, p<0.001) and BAI (r=0.633, p<0.001), while there was a negative correlation between PSQI and MSQOL-54 (r=0.705, p<0.001) and the duration of MS diagnosis (r=-0.364, p=0.029). A positive correlation was found between the EDSS score and BDI (r=0.401, p=0.015) and the number of hospitalizations (r=0.566, p<0.001). There was a significant negative correlation observed between MSQOL-54 and BDI (r=-0.807, p<0.001) as well as BAI (r=-0.834, p<0.001). There is a significant positive relationship between BDI and BAI (r=0.828, p<0.001). Our research revealed that individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis exhibit elevated levels of anxiety and depression symptoms when compared to a healthy control group. Additionally, they tend to experience lower sleep quality and overall quality of life. The provision of necessary psychiatric interventions to these patients following their diagnosis can enable them to accept the disease and actively participate in treatment, thereby positively impacting their quality of life.

Efficacy of Exercise Therapy on Fatigue Levels of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Literature Review

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system caused by the immune system and it affects people all over the world. It is characterised by a variety of symptoms. Excessive fatigue is the most prevalent and debilitating symptom in individuals with multiple sclerosis, significantly impacting their lives. Several factors contribute to the disease and physical inactivity, which have been suggested to impact fatigue levels. Regular exercise therapy has the potential to alter psychological and physiological functions that can significantly improve fatigue in multiple sclerosis patients. Aim: To review the existing literature on the efficacy of exercise therapy on fatigue levels of multiple sclerosis patients. Materials and Methods: The authors conducted a literature search from 2014-2024 using different search engines such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Cochrane Library and Scopus. The search utilised MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) keywords including exercise, multiple sclerosis, and fatigue. The authors included all types of studies that examined the efficacy of exercise interventions on fatigue outcome measures. Results: Exercise therapy was a safe intervention for multiple sclerosis patients and did not cause any harm. A combination of exercise programs were used to improve fatigue levels and the quality of life of multiple sclerosis patients. Both subjective and objective outcome measures showed significant changes in fatigue levels. Conclusion: Exercise therapy has shown promising results in improving the overall health of multiple sclerosis patients, particularly in reducing fatigue levels. There is a need for more focus on designing non stereotypical treatment protocols and evaluating them using gold-standard tools. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) model can be incorporated to identify more effective treatment and assessment methods.

Effectiveness of dry needling on the treatment of patients with multiple sclerosis: systematic review

Aim: The aim of this study is to review the effectiveness of dry needling in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from its inception until July 2023 and the reference lists of the articles obtained were manually searched. Studies examining the effectiveness of dry needling treatment alone or in combination with a different protocol in individuals diagnosed with MS, regardless of type, were included. The systematic review included quasi-experimental studies and case reports. Studies involving traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture applications, conference abstracts, and protocol records were excluded. Methodological quality assessments were carried out independently by two authors using tools developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Results: A total of 130 studies were found in the searches. Some studies were excluded due to duplication, protocol registration, conference abstract, and content outside the scope of the study and 7 studies were included in the review. In total, 33 individuals were included in this review, 22 of whom were women. Four studies specified the MS type of the patients, while the other studies did not specify MS type. Conclusions: Despite some limitations, this is, to our knowledge, the first review summarizing studies evaluating the effectiveness of dry needling in MS patients. The dry needling technique alone or in a combination of treatments was effective in improving pain, spasticity, range of motion, dexterity, mobility, limb function, and quality of life in MS patients. However, these results should be treated with caution due to the small number of included studies and the lack of randomized controlled trials. Although it is too early to talk about the positive effects of the dry needling technique in MS patients, the study results are promising. More randomized controlled trials should be conducted on this topic.

Social stigma and its relationship with quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients

IntroductionMultiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent disease of the central nervous system that affects the behavioral characteristics and lifestyle of patients. This study aimed to determine the social stigma and its relationship with quality of life in people with MS referring to the Jahrom MS Association.MethodThis cross-sectional study was conducted on MS patients who are members of the MS Association of Jahrom City in Fars province, southern Iran in 2022. The samples were selected by census method. The number of participants remain 223 people. The data was collected using a standard two-part demographic and Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQOL-54) questionnaire and a researcher-made 20-question Social stigma questionnaire which validity and reliability were measured. Data analysis was done in a descriptive way (frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation), univariate regression and multivariable linear regression. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 17 and at a significance level of less than 0.05.ResultBased on univariate regression, marriage [B = 0.2, p-value = 0.004], physical health [B = 0.4, p-value < 0.001], emotional well-being [B = 0.4, p-value = 0.001], cognitive functioning [B = 0.4, p-value < 0.001], health distress [B = 0.5, p-value < 0.001] had a positive and significant relationship with patients’ quality of life. Duration of disease [B=-0.2, p-value < 0.001], physical role limitations [B=-0.4, p-value < 0.001], emotional role limitations [B=-0.5, p-value < 0.001], pain [B=-0.4, p-value < 0.001], energy [B=-0.3, p-value = 0.02], health perception [B=-0.3, p-value = 0.001], social functioning [B=-0.4, p-value < 0.001], sexual function [B=-0.3, p-value < 0.001], change in health [B=-0.3, p-value < 0.001], sexual function satisfaction [B=-0.3, p-value < 0.001] and social stigma [B=-0.3, p-value < 0.001] had a negative and significant relationship with patients’ quality of life (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe study has emphasized the relationship between the extent and severity of symptoms and disorders with the quality of life of people with MS. The results of the study showed factors such as marriage, physical health and health distress have a positive relationship and factors like duration of disease, physical role limitations, and social stigma have a negative relationship with the quality of life of people with MS. The quality of life of people with MS is more influenced by mental and psychological factors than the physical limitations of these patients.

The effect of probiotic supplementation on the clinical and para-clinical findings of multiple sclerosis: a randomized clinical trial

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelination disease of the central nervous system (CNS). The gut-brain axis involves communication between the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. Probiotics can positively impact immune and inflammatory responses by regulating gut microbiota. A total of 40 MS patients (average age of 34.38 ± 6.65) were examined to determine the effect of the Saccharomyces boulardii supplement for four months compared to a placebo. The results showed that the Saccharomyces boulardii significantly decreased the inflammatory marker high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) compared to the placebo (P < 0.001). The serum antioxidant capacity (TAC) also increased significantly in the probiotic group compared to the placebo (p = 0.004). Both the probiotic and placebo groups showed a reduction in the oxidative stress indicator malondialdehyde (MDA), but there was no significant difference between the two groups. Pain intensity (measured by Visual Analogue Scale) and fatigue severity (measured by Fatigue Severity Scale) significantly decreased in the probiotic group compared to the placebo (p = 0.004 and p = 0.01, respectively). The probiotic group experienced significant improvement in some quality of life scales (measured by 36-Item Short Form Survey) and somatic and social dysfunction subscale of General Health Questionnaire scores compared to the placebo group (p = 0.01). The study suggests that the Saccharomyces boulardii probiotic supplement may benefit inflammatory markers, oxidative stress indicators, pain, fatigue, and quality of life in MS patients.

The impact of ketogenic diet on the onset and progression of multiple sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by inflammation and neurodegeneration. Current research suggests that diet may influence disease course, severity of symptoms, and quality of life in MS patients. The ketogenic diet (KD) has been used for more than a century as a therapeutic approach for various medical conditions. It was originally developed in the 1920s as a treatment option for epilepsy, and especially in the last 30 years, has gained popularity for its potential benefits in a variety of neurological conditions other than epilepsy. This prompted us to perform a literature survey regarding the effect of KD on the onset and progression of MS. The here reviewed 15 original research articles including in vitro, preclinical, andclinical studies provide evidence for the safety and feasibility of the KD in MS, showing potential neuroprotective effects and positive impacts on cellular metabolism and disease outcome. Since the literature is limited and most studies were conducted with low numbers of MS patients and rather exploratory in nature, further studies with larger cohorts are needed to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms by which the improvements of the MS disease course are achieved.

Assessment of the Impact of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction on Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis Patients in Saudi Arabia-A Cross-Sectional Study.

Lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) is caused by neurogenic factors that could lead to permanent injury in affected patients, and therefore result in substantial annual healthcare expenses. LUTD is very prevalent in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and has a drastic impact on their quality of life (QOL). This study aimed to assess the effect of LUTD on the QOL of Saudi MS patients. A cross-sectional study was carried out in Saudi Arabia using a self-administered questionnaire that included the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) and LURN Symptom Index (LURN SI-29). Data were analyzed and presented as frequencies and percentages. There were 428 patients who participated in this study; 270 were females and 158 were males. Most of the patients received a low score in all sections of the LURN part of the questionnaire. The highest scores (urgent need to urinate and excessive urination at night) were recorded in the urgency domain (47.20 ± 36.88) rather than the nocturia domain (44.74 ± 32.91). Meanwhile, the lowest score (complete control of bladder) was recorded in the incontinence domain (22.80 ± 26.80). For the WHOQOL-BREF score, the highest score (more social stability) was in the social domain (65.07 ± 21.16 for females, 60.41 ± 21.54 for males), and the lowest score (less psychological stability) was in the psychological domain (46.36 ± 9.84 for females, 46.20 ± 10.03 for males). However, there was no significant association between the four domains of the WHOQOL-BREF and the gender of the MS patients. LUTD is significantly associated with a lowered quality of life. Therefore, patients are recommended to consult with and be evaluated by appropriately experienced healthcare providers and clinicians. This ensures that the patients receive the best advice, accurate and effective treatment, and long-term analysis that can lead to an improvement in their quality of life.

The effect of saffron and corrective exercises on depression and quality of life in women with multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system which causes various complications such as reduced ability to do daily activities, depression and early death of patients. The present study aimed to compare the effect of saffron and corrective exercises on depression and quality of life in women with MS. This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 80 MS women for 12 weeks. Participants were selected through convenience sampling and allocated into four study groups (three intervention groups and one control group) using the stratified block randomization. The Expanded Disability Status Scale, Beck Depression Inventory and The Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale were used to collect data at the start of the study and also at the end of the sixth and the twelfth weeks. At the end of the twelfth week, the depression mean scores in all experimental groups (saffron group, corrective exercises group, corrective exercises + saffron group) were significantly different compared to the control group (P < 0.05), and this difference in corrective exercises + saffron group was more than the others. Also, at the end of the twelfth week, the mean scores of the quality of life (both physical and mental dimensions) in all experimental groups were significantly different from the control group (P < 0.05). The saffron group in physical dimension and the corrective exercises + saffron group in psychological dimension showed a significant difference with other groups. Although each of the corrective exercises program and saffron consumption alone were effective in reducing depression and enhancing the quality of life in MS patients, the consequences will be more beneficial in case these two interventions are used together. Therefore, it is necessary to encourage MS patients to consume saffron supplement along with doing physical activities in caring and rehabilitation programs.

What happens to the health-related quality of life of multiple sclerosis patients if they benefit from health literacy related to multiple sclerosis? A cross-sectional study in a developing country

Health literacy is an important pathway that provides insights into appraise of health information, the ability to search health information, knowledge of caring for the disease and successful practices in health conditions, and also opportunities for effective change in individual health. Health-related quality of life refers to the physical and mental health of an individual or group over time. Both heath literacy and health related quality of life are the priorities of WHO. This study aimed to determine the relationship between health literacy and health-related quality of life among multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, refered to Fars MS society, Shiraz-Iran, a developing country. This is a descriptive- correlational study. Three hundred and nine persons with MS completed two forms: the Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders and Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale validated questionnaires. Health literacy was significantly related to health quality of life in MS patients. The dimensions of health literacy had a significant relationship with health quality of life, and the physical dimension was significantly correlated with health literacy. Among the demographic variables, “source of health information” was most related to heath literacy, and “age” was most related to health quality of life. Thus, holding training classes, communicating with other patients, effective communication with medical staff, using disease-related web facilities, finding correct information in the web environment, and using the facilities of hospital libraries can ensure quality of life of MS patients.

Quality of life of MS patients in Trinidad and Tobago: Anomaly or adaptation?

There has been growing interest in quality of life associated with multiple sclerosis but the research has been overwhelmingly carried out in developed countries. This study aimed to assess quality of life of multiple sclerosis patients in Trinidad and Tobago. All multiple sclerosis patients were asked to complete demographic, EQ-5D-5L and MSQOL-54 questionnaires. EQ-5D data were compared with population norms for Trinidad and Tobago. MSQOL-54 data were compared with results from a matching cohort of non-MS respondents. Regression analyses were used to explore the association between MSQOL-54 scales and EQ-5D utility. The 97 patients were mainly urban, highly educated and 75% female. EQ-5D-5L data showed more frequent and more severe problems and lower index values than the population and patients of other chronic illness clinics in Trinidad and Tobago. MSQOL-54 results showed that patients were more affected by physical items, but had high scores on mental and emotional items when compared with the matching cohort and patients in other countries. The low prevalence and demographics of patients suggest the possibility of undetected cases in rural areas and/or among less educated groups. Further investigation into the high levels of mental and emotional health among patients may lead to the design of interventions to help patients of multiple sclerosis and other illnesses.

Investigating the relationship between stress, anxiety and depression with the quality of life of patients with multiple sclerosis

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease can affect all aspects of a person's life. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the relationship between stress, anxiety and depression with the quality of life of patients with multiple sclerosis. MS was performed.&#x0D; Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 2018-2019 on 245 patients with multiple sclerosis in Shahrekord city. Non-random sampling method was used and data collection tool was Depression, Anxiety and Stress Questionnaire (DASS-21) and Quality of Life Questionnaire in Multiple Sclerosis Patients (MISIS-29). The data were analyzed through spss 20 software.&#x0D; Results: In the present study, only 26/6% of patients experienced high quality of life, and 30/5% of patients had severe to moderate anxiety, 13/8% moderate stress, and 34/2% moderate and severe depression. There was a significant relationship between the stress and anxiety of the patients and their jobs (p&lt;0/05) and also there was a significant difference between the quality of life and the education of the patients (p&lt;0/05). A significant relationship was observed between the state of stress, depression and anxiety of the patients with the quality of life and with the physical and mental subscales (P&lt;0/001).&#x0D; Conclusion: The results indicated the prevalence of mental disorders in patients with MS, which has affected the quality of life of patients. Therefore, providing suitable interventions to deal with or adapt to these symptoms and ultimately improve the quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients seems necessary.

The relationship between dietary profile and adherence to the Mediterranean diet with EDSS and quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients: a retrospective cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Background Multiple sclerosis (MS), one of the main neurological causes of disability seen at young ages, affects the quality of life of patients. Studies on which dietary pattern or consumption of food groups may have an impact on quality of life for MS patients are insufficient. The study was conducted to determine the relationship between adherence to Mediterranean diet and consumption levels of food groups on quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients. Methods This study was conducted with 95 patients, 76 females and 19 males, aged 18–65 years, who had been diagnosed with MS for at least 2 years and did not have any other chronic disease. Food Frequency Questionnaire, Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS), Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 Instrument (MS-QoL-54) used as tools. Data were analyzed by SPSS 25.0. Results Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with EDSS and physical and mental quality of life parameters (CPH and CMH), independent of progression. It was associated with EDSS and CMH in progressive MS. A statistically significant negative weak correlation was found between daily milk and oilseed consumption and EDSS. Daily fruit consumption was associated with CMH, and vegetable consumption was associated with both CPH and CMH. Conclusions The Mediterranean diet may be an effective nutritional model in MS patients and may be related to the disability level and quality of life of the patients. Some food groups can be associated with the quality of life and disability level of MS patients.

Facilitating and Inhibiting Factors regarding Quality of Life in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Qualitative Study

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive disease related to the central nervous system, which affects the patients' quality of life. Several factors play the roles of facilitators and inhibitors concerning the life quality of these patients. This study aims to explain the facilitating and inhibiting factors with regard to the life quality of MS patients.&#x0D; &#x0D; Methods: The present study was conducted through a conventional content analysis approach. Through purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews, 18 MS patients referring to the Isfahan MS Association were selected. Data collection continued until data saturation was reached. For data management, MAXQDA-10 software was used.&#x0D; Results: Through content analysis of the interviews, 4 main categories and 15 sub-categories were identified. The main categories included personal facilitators (leisure time and coping strategies), interpersonal facilitators (exercise therapy, social support and social organizations), interpersonal inhibitors (physical problems, psychological disorders, uncertain future, functional limitations, losing job and poverty) ,and environmental inhibitors (disease and treatment process, caregivers' fatigue, insufficient information about MS, family tensions, and fun and entertainment).&#x0D; Conclusion: According to the results of the current research, by taking measures such as providing educational and psychological services for patients and their caregivers, appropriate insurance coverage, easy access to drugs, especially foreign ones with reasonable tariffs, social and financial support, raising the society's awareness regarding this disease and developing an appropriate urban texture can help to improve the quality of life in MS patients.

Assessment of Fatigue and Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

IntroductionMultiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system that is associated with a range of devastating symptoms including fatigue. In addition, the accumulation of disability that occurs in most MS patients can have a detrimental effect on their quality of life.ObjectivesTo assess fatigue and quality of life in patients with MS.MethodsDescriptive cross-sectional study that interested MS patients referred to the occupational pathology consultation of Charles Nicolle Hospital, during the period from 1 July 2020 to 30 September 2022. The data collected concerned socio-demographic and occupational characteristics. The impact of MS on quality of life was studied using the SF-12 quality of life scale. Fatigue was assessed by the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS).ResultsTwenty-six cases of MS were identified. The mean age was 38 ± 9 years with a sex ratio (M/F) of 0.3. The average occupational seniority was 11 ± 8 years. The health sector was the most represented (23%, n= 6) followed by the transport sector (19%, n= 5). The main occupations were manual workers (31%), drivers, and administrative agents (19% each). The occupational constraints were physical in 44% of cases and psychological in 24% of cases. Fourteen patients (87% of the cases) lost their jobs because of the disease. The decision on occupational fitness was definitive incapacity in 44% of cases. The mean FSS score was 4±1.74. Sixteen patients (62%) had moderate fatigue (FSS 36-52), eight patients (31%) had mild fatigue (FSS &lt;36) and two patients (8%) had severe fatigue (FSS &gt;52). In addition, the mean scores for the physical and mental components of perceived health were estimated to be 37.04±7.67 and 44.93±7.23, respectively. The mean global score (SG) of SF12 was 40.98±7.23. The majority of patients (92%, n=24) had an average quality of life (SG- SF12 between 30 and 60) and two patients (8%) had a poor quality of life (SG &lt;30).ConclusionsThe impact of MS on the socio-professional quality of life of patients was noted in the majority of cases. It is therefore imperative to improve the care of our patients on both the physical and psychological levels.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared