Article

Objective: To determine the course of daily functioning in patients with multiple
sclerosis in the 10 years after their definite diagnosis. Methods: A long-term
prospective follow-up study including an incidence cohort of 156 patients with
multiple sclerosis. Participants were examined systematically, beginning
immediately after definite diagnosis, then at the following time-points: 6
months, 1, 2, 3, 6 and 10 years. The various domains of daily functioning were
assessed with the Expanded Disability Status Scale, the Functional Independence
Measure, and the Medical Outcome Study Short Form-36 (SF-36). Results:
Neurological disability and physical functioning worsened significantly, with a
time course dependent on whether a patient had multiple sclerosis of the relapse
onset type or non-relapse onset type. Cognitive and social functioning worsened
significantly over time, but with the same (accelerated) rate of change in both
the RO and NRO groups. Scores on SF-36 mental health, SF-36 role physical, and
SF-36 general health changed only slightly. Conclusion: In the first 10 years
after definite diagnosis, patients with multiple sclerosis showed a more
pronounced decline in physical functioning than in cognitive and social
functioning. There was no time-related decline in mental health, social role due
to physical limitations, or general health.

Langue : ANGLAIS