Perceptions on the value of bodily functions in multiple sclerosis

Item Type:	Article
Title:	Perceptions on the value of bodily functions in multiple sclerosis
Creators Name:	Heesen, C. and Haase, R. and Melzig, S. and Poettgen, J. and Berghoff, M. and Paul, F. and Zettl, U. and Marziniak, M. and Angstwurm, K. and Kern, R. and Ziemssen, T. and Stellmann, J.P.
Abstract:	BACKGROUND: In neurological diseases presenting with a plethora of symptoms, the value of bodily functions for a given patient might be a guide for clinical management. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is paradigmatic in this respect, and little is known about the value of different bodily functions of patients and their physicians' perceptions. METHODS: In a multicenter study, 171 patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), 61% with a clinically active disease within the last 2 years were followed over up to 3 years and yearly patients and their study physician rated on the perceived value of 13 bodily functions via a priority list. Differences between patients and physicians as well as modulating disease demographic factors were analyzed. RESULTS: Patients with RRMS rated visual function followed by thinking and memory and walking highest while physicians stressed mobility, followed by thinking and memory and alertness most. Ratings were independent from disease duration or disability. Strongest value judgment differences were seen in swallowing regarded more relevant by patients and hand function regarded more relevant by physicians. In general, patients' and physicians' ratings through time were quite stable. Collapsing physical items into a physical functioning scale and mental items in a mental function scale, both dimensions were regarded equally important by patients while physicians underscored physical functioning (P = .016). CONCLUSION: There are differences between patients and physicians in value statements of bodily functions in MS. In particular, visual functioning is under-recognized by physicians.
Keywords:	Bodily Functions, Multiple Sclerosis, Patient Perspective, Physician Perspective, Quality of Life
Source:	Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
ISSN:	0001-6314
Publisher:	Wiley-Blackwell
Volume:	137
Number:	3
Page Range:	356-362
Date:	March 2018
Official Publication:	https://doi.org/10.1111/ane.12881
PubMed:	View item in PubMed

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