Disease-related determinants of quality of life 10 years after clinically isolated syndrome

Abstract

Background: The main clinical determinants of quality of life (QOL) 5 years after clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) are Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score and conversion to clinically definite multiple sclerosis (CDMS). The aim of this study was to determine the demographic, clinical, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) factors associated with QOL 10 years after CIS.

Methods: Controlled High Risk Avonex® Multiple Sclerosis Prevention Study in Ongoing Neurologic Surveillance (CHAMPIONS) 10-year patients were assessed for CDMS, EDSS score, MRI T2 activity, brain parenchymal fraction, and patient-reported QOL. Associations were evaluated using analysis of variance models.

Results: A second clinical event consistent with CDMS and higher EDSS scores at years 5 and 10 were associated with lower 36-item Short Form Health Status Survey (SF-36) Physical Component Summary scores at year 10 (P < .01). Patients with earlier onset of CDMS had worse patient-reported Physical Component Summary, SF-36 Mental Component Summary, fatigue, and pain scores at year 10 than patients with later or no onset of CDMS. Neither initial randomization group nor any MRI metrics assessed at baseline or during follow-up were associated with QOL at 10 years.

Conclusions: These results support the development of therapies for patients with CIS that significantly reduce the risk of conversion to CDMS and the progression of physical disability to milestones as low as EDSS scores of 2.0.