Cognitive impairment in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: What do we know?

The aim of this study is to make a descriptive review of the bibliography available on cognitive dysfunction in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). We selected fifteen studies that quantitatively assess the relationship between NMOSD and one or more cognitive variables. Results showed that patients with NMOSD had a decrease in cognitive functions. Cognitive dysfunctions were found in 35-67% of patients with NMOSD, specifically in the attention, memory and information processing speed. Cognitive dysfunctions were found to relate to injuries in white matter as well as clinical variables and depression.