Cognitive deficits in multiple sclerosis: a review of functional MRI studies

Abstract  

Cognitive dysfunction frequently occurs during the course of multiple sclerosis (MS). In patients with MS the severity of
cognitive manifestations is not closely related to indices of structural brain damage. Neuroplasticity may contribute to the
maintenance of normal performance despite scattered brain lesions. Changes in functional organization of the cerebral cortex
have been reported by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies in MS. fMRI studies provide an interesting way
of understanding how the brain changes its functional organization in response to MS, and might be useful in the study of
the effects of rehabilitative or pharmacological therapy on brain plasticity. The purpose of this review is to examine major
fMRI studies focusing on cognitive dysfunction in MS.

• Content Type Journal Article
• DOI 10.1007/s10072-010-0379-1
• Authors
  • Francesca Caramia, Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Viale dell'Universita 30, 00185 Rome, Italy
  • E. Tinelli, Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Viale dell'Universita 30, 00185 Rome, Italy
  • A. Francia, Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Viale dell'Universita 30, 00185 Rome, Italy
  • C. Pozzilli, Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Viale dell'Universita 30, 00185 Rome, Italy

• Journal Neurological Sciences
• Online ISSN 1590-3478
• Print ISSN 1590-1874