What have we learned about cognition in myasthenia gravis?: a review of methods and results.

Full Abstract

Most individuals with myasthenia gravis (MG) complain of cognitive impairment, but empirical studies of cognition in MG have produced mixed results. In the present review, we critically examined the methodology and results of previous studies that investigated cognition in MG. Results from our review revealed that none of the studies met at least 50% of criteria under review. The most common shortcomings of previous studies included small sample size, no exclusion for visual difficulties in patients, inadequate assessment of mood, and poor control for prednisone use. Despite these methodological difficulties, mild impairments on measures of learning have been identified. These findings need to be replicated with adequate control of potential confounds before any conclusions can be made regarding cognition in this disease. Suggestions for design of future studies are provided.

Author information

Author/s: Paul, R H (RH); Cohen, R A (RA); Zawacki, T (T); Gilchrist, J M (JM); Aloia, M S (MS);

Affiliation: Miriam Hospital, Brown Medical School, Fain 328, Division of Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, 164 Summit Ave, Providence, RI 20906, USA. rpaul(-atsign-)lifespan.org

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Review

Journal: Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews (Neurosci Biobehav Rev), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2001-Jan; vol 25 (issue 1) : pp 75-81

Dates: Created 2001/02/22; Completed 2001/04/26; Revised 2005/11/16;

PMID: 11166079, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

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