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Abstract
Cognitive impairment can be detected in a sizeable proportion of paediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. It involves memory, complex attention, information processing speed, executive functions, linguistic abilities, and intelligent quotient. It has a great impact on school, everyday and social activities, and significantly progresses overtime in the great majority of the subjects.

These findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive and systematic assessment of MS-related cognitive difficulties in paediatric cases. Moreover, despite the acknowledged relevance of cognitive impairment in this age range, specific interventions for paediatric MS are lacking.

As for rehabilitative strategies, there is some evidence of efficacy in other diseases, in particular brain trauma, tumor, and stroke. The development of effective rehabilitative strategies tailored to the needs of young MS patients is a priority for future research in the field.

Emilio Portaccio1 , Benedetta Goretti1, Valentina Zipoli1, Bahia Hakiki1, Marta Giannini1, Luisa Pastò1, Lorenzo Razzolini1 and Maria Pia Amato1

(1) Department of Neurology, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni, 85, 50134 Florence, Italy

Source: SpringerLink Milan © Springer 2010 (22/07/10)

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