Cognitive impairment as one of the important non-motor symptoms in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

Abstract

Cognitive impairment is one of the most important non-physical symptoms of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), and few studies have reported on cognitive impairments in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Adequate batteries are required to assess cognitive function in MS, and cognitive impairments in patients with MS are likely not adequately evaluated. As cognitive impairment usually affects employment status and activities of daily living in patients with MS and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, the effect of this symptom on daily activities should be closely examined. The present review focuses on the prevalence and characteristics of cognitive impairments in patients with MS and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, as well as the methods used to evaluate cognitive function in such patients.