Scientists have found a new link between multiple sclerosis and depression.
Researchers investigated the link between brain lesions from multiple
sclerosis and neural circuits in the brain associated with depression. They
found that patients with MS and depression were more likely to have brain
lesions on neural circuits linked to depression. The researchers say that
further studies are needed to see if brain stimulation targets useful for
depression may help those with MS and depression.
In multiple sclerosis (MS), immune cells attack myelin sheaths that encase
nerves, including those in the brain and spinal cord. Myelin sheaths are
insulating fatty layers that enable communication between neurons. Early
symptoms of MS may include fatigue, vision problems, and numbness. Around
50%of people with MS also experience depression at some point in their
life, and around 20% have the condition each year.
Understanding more about the underlying neuroanatomy for depression in
those with MS could help identify treatment targets for brain stimulation
techniques.
