Lipid Profiles, Cognitive Function, and the role of Physical Activity in Multiple Sclerosis

resumen

Esraa Fahmy*, Ehab S. Ramadan, Nahla A. Nosair, Salma Ragab

Background: Delayed cognition is common among patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) affecting their quality of life. In MS, lipid biomarkers are associated with neurodegeneration, and the blood-brain barrier disruption. This study aimed to investigate the role of lipid components in MS and their association with cognition.

Methods: This case-control study included 71 patients with MS and 71 healthy control participants. The definitive diagnosis of MS was determined according to the revised McDonald criteria. Demographic and clinical data of patients were obtained. In addition, blood samples were collected from all participants. The lipid biomarkers panel included total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The physical disabilities were assessed using EDSS, progression index (PI), whereas the cognitive function was assessed utilizing BICAMS.

Results: The Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) was demonstrating negative correlation with TC, LDL-C, and TC/HDL-C in MS patients. Higher TG levels were associated with increased impairment and disease progression in MS patients, as TG exhibited a positive correlation with disease severity and progression.

Conclusions: Lipid biomarkers are associated with cognitive impairment in MS. The results suggest a potential association between lipid biomarkers and cognitive impairment.