Relapse recovery in multiple sclerosis: Effect of treatment and contribution to long-term disability

Background Although recovery from relapses in MS appears to contribute to disability, it has largely been ignored as a treatment endpoint and disability predictor. Objective To identify demographic and clinical predictors of relapse recovery in the first 3 years and examine its contribution to 10-year disability and MRI outcomes. Methods Relapse recovery was retrospectively assessed in 360 patients with MS using the return of the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Functional System Scale and neurologic signs to baseline at least 6 months after onset. Univariate and multivariable models were used to associate recovery with demographic and clinical factors and predict 10-year outcomes. Results Recovery from relapses in the first 3 years was better in patients who were younger, on disease-modifying treatment, with a longer disease duration and without bowel or bladder symptoms. For every incomplete recovery, 10-year EDSS increased by 0.6 and 10-year timed 25-foot walk increased by 0.5 s. These outcomes were also higher with older age and higher baseline BMI. Ten-year MRI brain atrophy was associated only with older age, and MRI lesion volume was only associated with smoking. Conclusions Early initiation of disease-modifying treatment in MS was associated with improved relapse recovery, which in turn prevented long-term disability.