How a very simple test can help clinicians see subtle cognitive changes in multiple sclerosis

L-R: Dr Daniel Merlo , Prof Helmut Butzkueven and A/Prof Anneke
Van Der Walt are first and senior authors on a paper describing a tool
they have developed for assessing cognitive function in MS.

More than 50% of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience cognitive problems as part of their disease. These cognitive problems subtly worsen with time and can be difficult to measure with standard neuropsychological assessments. Hence, it can be challenging for neurologists to monitor and detect small changes in cognitive function in day-to-day practice.

Monash researchers have developed a simple set of tests to detect subtle changes in cognitive function in people living with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). The tests are collectively known as ‘MSReactor’.

Multiple Sclerosis and immunisation

Vaccination for people with MS needs to be planned: MJA.
Image: Shutterstock

The immunisation status of patients newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) must not be overlooked when beginning treatment with immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), according to the authors of a Perspective published 19 April by the Medical Journal of Australia.

“Determining immunisation status when commencing DMTs is key, as is an individualised approach to risk–benefit assessment when considering vaccinations,” wrote the authors, led by Dr Cassie Nesbitt, a neurologist at Alfred Health in Melbourne.

MS team improved patient care under pandemic conditions

Multiple Sclerosis Neuroimmunology Clinic members. L-R: Robb Wesselingh,
Kelly Glekas, Anneke van der Walt, Mastura Monif, Helmut Butzkueven,
Louise Rath, Olga Skibina, Janene Richards, Cassie Nesbitt

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system that attacks the myelin sheath covering nerves. It can be detected on MRI scans as lesions present in the brain and spinal cord. It is a disease that is chronic, so treatment is required on an ongoing basis to prevent relapses or flares. 

During 2020's COVID-19 lockdowns this proved to be a challenge, but one which the Monash-Alfred Health Multiple Sclerosis Neuroimmunology (MSNI) Clinic team met.