An Overview of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms and Pathogenesis in MS

Multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the central nervous system, is well recognized to cause physical disability. MS also very commonly causes neuropsychiatric symptoms that, though disabling, are often under-recognized by care providers. The most common neuropsychiatric symptoms, affecting over half MS patients, include cognitive impairment, depression, and fatigue. This chapter is intended to provide readers with an overview of these neuropsychiatric symptoms as they relate to MS including information about their prevalence, underlying pathophysiology, clinical presentations, clinical assessments, and treatment strategies. Through increasing understanding of the neuropsychiatric symptoms in MS, the authors hope to promote a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to the care of MS patients.