There is still a role for the blink reflex in the diagnosis and follow-up of multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Objective: The evolution of the diagnostic criteria for multiple sclerosis (MS) has essentially evolved to clinical manifestations and magnetic resonance imaging. Inexpensive, quick to apply, non-invasive, quantitative and reliable neurophysiological tests are rare in daily practice and absent in clinical trials.

Method: The blink reflex was assessed in 50 patients with remitting-relapsing MS (RRMS) and 100 matched controls.

Results: Patients with RRMS had abnormalities in the blink reflex waves in relation to controls. If only RRMS patients were considered, these abnormalities were more pronounced in patients with longer disease duration, higher disability and for those with clinical or image lesions in the brainstem.

Conclusion: Neurophysiological tests, such as the blink reflex, can be used for helping the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with RRMS, since the reflex can identify dissemination in time and in space in a clear and quantitative manner.

Significance: Potential good methods for diagnosis and follow-up of MS should be considered for clinical trials and daily practice.

Keywords: Blink reflex; Evoked potentials; Multiple sclerosis; Neurophysiology.