Psychiatric manifestations of multiple sclerosis: a review

Abstract

Objective: To report the occurrence, type, causes, and management of psychiatric manifestations in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Method: Review of recent, relevant literature.

Results: Psychiatric illness, especially depression, occurs much more frequently than expected in patients with MS, is frequently unrecognized or ignored, and is treatable using standard methods, although patients with MS may be unusually sensitive to side effects of tricyclic antidepressants.

Conclusions: Research is needed to better define the causes of psychiatric syndromes in patients with MS. Those treating MS should increase their awareness of and sensitivity to the likelihood of psychiatric disorder in these patients.