Assessment of patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder using the EQ-5D

Abstract

Background: Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by unpredictable attacks of the optic nerves and spinal cord that cause neurologic deficits, including weakness, numbness, bowel/bladder dysfunction, and pain and reduced vision and can ultimately lead to blindness and paralysis. We assessed the effects of NMOSD on quality of life. Methods: Adult patients with NMOSD treated at a US academic neurology clinic completed the EQ-5D and several other measures of functional status and quality of life. The EQ-5D scores and correlations across measures were evaluated, and scores were compared with those of patients with multiple sclerosis and US norms. Results: Twenty-one patients (90% women; mean age, 42.8 years; mean disease duration, 8.2 years) were included. The mean EQ-5D score was 0.74. Most patients reported at least some problems with mobility, pain/discomfort, usual activities, and/or anxiety/depression. Greater proportions of patients reported moderate or severe problems with mobility and pain/discomfort than they did with self-care, usual activities, or anxiety/depression. In a multivariate model, only the Brief Pain Inventory was a significant independent predictor of overall EQ-5D score. Conclusions: Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder has a substantial effect on multiple domains of quality of life. Pain seems to be among the primary drivers of the EQ-5D scores in NMOSD.