White matter changes and social cognitive function in MS: When all is no longer in the eyes

The mechanisms and consequences of cognitive impairment in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are slowly being uncovered. Interest in this area has in part increased due to the lack of clear evidence for effective therapies.1 A separate, major motivator is that cognitive impairment is not just a predictor of unemployment but is the leading predictor of occupational disability.2 This increasing interest in cognitive function has been mirrored by a parallel increase in studies of social cognition: a collection of psychological processes that facilitate interpersonal communication and interaction by helping individuals understand how others think and feel. These abilities may influence employment, but also relationships with spouses, caregivers, friends, and family members. Social cognition is therefore potentially of particular relevance to people with MS, for whom peer support is one of the main determinants of quality of life.3 Yet there is a relative lack of research in this area, despite recent evidence that deficits in these social cognitive processes may be similar in magnitude to many of the other neurocognitive deficits that are observed in MS.4
Source: Neurology - Category: Neurology Authors: Tags: MRI, All Neuropsychology/Behavior, Neuropsychological assessment, Multiple sclerosis EDITORIALS Source Type: research