Cognitive deficits in multiple sclerosis: a systematic review

To present the results of prospective and retrospective studies on multiple sclerosis patients cognitive dysfunctions, as well as to discuss the batteries of neuropsychological tests used in these investigations. A systematic review was performed involving 40 studies published from 1997 to 2009, in PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, ISI Web of Knowledge, Scientific Electronic Library on line (Scielo) and Latin-American and Caribbean Center of Health Sciences Informations database. Clear description of multiple sclerosis patients cognitive deficits evaluation, study design, sample size; inclusion-exclusion and discontinuation criteria; instruments for neuropsychological evaluation, diagnostic methods, evaluated functions and detailed statistical analysis had been the inclusion criteria. There is consensus on cognitive impairment of multiple sclerosis patients, especially on memory, speed processing, executive function, attention and concentration domains. One has identified use of 23 batteries and 74 neuropsychological tests, despite the recommendation of Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers to the application of MACFIMS battery. The absence of the uniformization for multiple sclerosis patients cognitive evaluation battery has precluded to achieve evidences to recommend its incorporation on diagnostic routine. Nevertheless this tendency is already outlined.