Large-scale online assessment uncovers a distinct Multiple Sclerosis subtype with selective cognitive impairment
File(s)
Published version
Author(s)
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Cognitive impairments in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are prevalent and disabling yet often unaddressed. Here, we optimised automated online assessment technology for people with MS and used it to characterise their cognitive deficits in greater detail and at a larger population scale
than previously possible. The study involved 4,526 UK MS Register members over three stages. Stage 1 evaluated 22 online cognitive tasks and established their feasibility. Based on MS discriminability a 12-task battery was selected. Stage 2 validated the resulting battery at scale, while Stage 3 compared it to a standard neuropsychological assessment. Clustering analysis identified a prevalent MS subtype exhibiting significant cognitive deficits with minimal motor impairment. Disability in this group is currently unrecognised and untreated. These findings underscore the importance of cognitive assessment in MS, the feasibility of integrating online tools into patient registries, and the potential of such large-scale data to derive insights into symptom heterogeneity.
than previously possible. The study involved 4,526 UK MS Register members over three stages. Stage 1 evaluated 22 online cognitive tasks and established their feasibility. Based on MS discriminability a 12-task battery was selected. Stage 2 validated the resulting battery at scale, while Stage 3 compared it to a standard neuropsychological assessment. Clustering analysis identified a prevalent MS subtype exhibiting significant cognitive deficits with minimal motor impairment. Disability in this group is currently unrecognised and untreated. These findings underscore the importance of cognitive assessment in MS, the feasibility of integrating online tools into patient registries, and the potential of such large-scale data to derive insights into symptom heterogeneity.
Date Issued
2025-09-03
Date Acceptance
2025-07-11
Citation
Nature Communications, 2025, 16
ISSN
2041-1723
Publisher
Nature Portfolio
Journal / Book Title
Nature Communications
Volume
16
Copyright Statement
Copyright This paper is embargoed until publication. Once published the Version of Record (VoR) will be available on immediate open access.
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Publication Status
Published
Article Number
ARTN 6938