Multiple Sclerosis-Related Fatigue Lacks a Unified Definition: A Narrative Review Publisher

Summary: MS-related fatigue impacts patients significantly, yet the exact causes remain unclear. Future research could enhance diagnosis & management. #MultipleSclerosis #FatigueResearch

Adibi I^{1, 2} ; Sanayei M^{2, 3} ; Tabibian F² ; Ramezani N² ; Pourmohammadi A² ; Azimzadeh K²
Source: Journal of Research in Medical Sciences Published:2022

Abstract

Fatigue is the most common symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS). Although MS-related fatigue (MS-F) strongly affects quality of life and social performance of patients, there is currently a lack of knowledge about its pathophysiology, which in turns leads to poor objective diagnosis and management. Recent studies have attempted to explain potential etiologies as well as treatments for MS-F. However, it seems that without a consensus on its nature, these data could not provide a route to a successful approach. In this Article, we review definitions, epidemiology, risk factors and correlated comorbidities, pathophysiology, assessment methods, neuroimaging findings, and pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments of MS-F. Further studies are warranted to define fatigue in MS patients more accurately, which could result in precise diagnosis and management. © 2022 Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications. All rights reserved.