Longitudinal Network Changes and Conversion to Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis
Marijn Huiskamp, A. J. C. Eijlers, Tommy A.A. Broeders, Jasmin Pasteuning, Iris Dekker, Bernard M.J. Uitdehaag, Frederik Barkhof, Alle Meije Wink, Jeroen J.G. Geurts, Hanneke E. Hulst, Menno M. Schoonheim
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To characterize functional network changes related to conversion to cognitive impairment in a large sample of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) over a period of 5 years. METHODS: < -2 on ≥2 tests, n = 72), and longitudinal conversion between groups was determined. Network function was quantified with eigenvector centrality, a measure of regional network importance, which was computed for individual resting-state networks at both time points. RESULTS: < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Of all patients, 19% worsened in their cognitive status over 5 years. Conversion from intact cognition to impairment is related to an initial disturbed functioning of the VAN, then shifting toward DMN dysfunction in CI. Because the VAN normally relays information to the DMN, these results could indicate that in MS normal processes crucial for maintaining overall network stability are progressively disrupted as patients clinically progress.