Factors that Infl uence the Prediction of the Quality of Life with Multiple Sclerosis (Prediction of The Quality of Life and Multiple Sclerosis)

Th e purpose of this research was to defi ne the predictive factors of quality of life in the domain of physical and mental health, measured on the specifi c MSQoL-54 scale (Th e multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54). In this cross-sectional study an evaluation has been done of the level of neurological disorder that was measured with the use of EDSS (Th e Expanded Disability Status Scale), as well as the presence of depression and anxiety with the use of Hamilton’s Depression Scale (HDRS) and Hamilton’s Anxiety Scale (HARS). After calculating the total sums of each specifi c domain of the MSQoL-54 scale, followed the calculation of the PHC (Physical Health Composite Score) and MHC (Mental Health Composite Score), and then the predictive value of chosen demographic and clinical variables was determined in comparison to the composite scores of the physical and mental functioning. Th e criteria for the inclusion in the study were: MS diagnosis made in accordance to McDonald’s criteria, age between 18-69 years, EDSS<8 and consent of the patients examined. Criteria for exclusion were: exacerbation of the disease in the last month, previously verified psychiatric diseases and use of corticosteroids in the last month. Statistical analysis included linear regressive analysis. Th e most important predictive factors identifi ed in this research, which influence the physical aspects of quality of life, are depression, current age and employment status. The most significant factors that infl uenced the mental aspects of quality of life are depression and occupation. So, apart from physical disability also other clinical and demographic parameters influence the quality of life predictions of patients suff ering from multiple sclerosis.