MS research update - 07 August 2009
- Potential link between susceptibility to allergies and risk of developing MS
- Improved injection devices may improve adherence to multiple sclerosis drug treatments
- Self-management programme helps people with MS manage cognitive changes
- Potential risk of DVT in late stage MS
Potential link between susceptibility to allergies and risk of developing MS
Allergies are generally thought to exist as a result of an exaggerated immune response. The term 'atopic allergy' refers to types of allergies which occur as a result of a response to a substance or 'allergen' present in an individual's environment. The present study investigated a potential link between previous medical history of any type of allergic disorder and MS. The findings revealed no significant association between MS and allergic disorders in general, but the presence of one or more atopic allergy is significantly associated with a decreased risk of developing MS. The authors hypothesise that people who are more susceptible to atopic allergies carry a lower risk of developing MS than those who are not. However, further research is needed to clarify the potential link between allergies and risk of MS.
Pedotti R, Farinotti M, Falcone, C et al.
Allergy and multiple sclerosis: a population-based case-control study.
Multiple Sclerosis 2009; 15(8):899-906.
Medline abstract
Improved injection devices may improve adherence to multiple sclerosis drug treatments
Many factors are known to influence how likely it is for an individual with MS to remain on disease modifying drug treatments. Amongst these factors are: injection anxiety; a perceived lack of effectiveness; and intolerable side effects. The present study proposes that adjustments to drug formulation which may alter drug characteristics such as storage and mode of delivery, improved patient support and education that accompanies treatment programmes, and improved injection devices, may improve patients' experience of drug treatment and consequently improve adherence.
Lugaresi A.
Addressing the need for increased adherence to multiple sclerosis therapy: can delivery technology enhance patient motivation?
Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery 2009 [Epub ahead of print].
Medline abstract
Self-management programme helps people with MS manage cognitive changes
There is increasing evidence to suggest that people who feel they have some control over their condition have a better quality of life. Self-management programmes have proven effective channels through which people with long-term conditions can learn how to take some control over their condition in the short and longer term. The present pilot study recruited 35 people with MS with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairments to a five week, group-based community program addressing strategies to self-manage MS cognitive changes. Participants were taught various cognitive compensatory strategies and at the end of the programme reported increased effectiveness in managing cognitive problems.
Shevil E, Finlayson M.
Pilot study of a cognitive intervention program for persons with multiple sclerosis.
Health Education Research 2009 [Epub ahead of print].
Medline abstract
Potential risk of DVT in late stage MS
A progressive loss of mobility is often seen in people with MS, particularly in progressive forms of MS. Restricted mobility can result in venous and lymphatic stasis (a stopping or slowing of normal blood flow) which is a risk condition for venous thromboembolisim. However, there is a scarcity of data relating to the frequency of venous thromboembolism as a complication of progressing MS. The present prospective study aimed to assess the frequency of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients with late-stage MS attending a neurology centre for rehabilitation. The majority of the 132 study participants were either wheelchair users or bedridden. Only 25 participants reported they could still walk with or without help. Over the study period, DVT was seen in 43.9% of study participants. The study authors, whilst recognising the limitations of this single-centre study, conclude that the frequency of DVT in late-stage MS may be over 40% and further randomised controlled trials to find the most suitable treatment schedule for thrombosis phroylaxis are needed.
Arpaiab G, Bavera PM, Caputo D, et al.
Risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) n bedridden or wheelchair-bound multiple sclerosis patients.
Thrombosis Research 2009[Epub ahead of print].
Medline abstract