Executive functions in multiple sclerosis: an analysis of temporal ordering, semantic encoding, and planning abilities.
Previous studies have consistently demonstrated impairments in conceptual reasoning and set-shifting abilities in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Other executive functions have been less frequently examined. We compared 44 MS patients and 48 demographically matched controls on a temporal-ordering and semantic-encoding task and on a test of planning (Tower of Hanoi). Compared with controls, MS patients experienced deficient semantic encoding and planning but unimpaired temporal-order memory. For both tasks, post hoc analyses indicated that chronic-progressive MS patients contributed most to the group differences. A combination of poor planning and slowed information-processing speed was hypothesized to have contributed to MS patients' impaired Tower of Hanoi performance. Further research is needed to explore the possible relationship between semantic-encoding and planning deficits in MS and social and occupational disabilities.
Arnett
P A
PA
Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman 99164-4820, USA. parne@mail.wsu.edu
Rao
S M
SM
Grafman
J
J
Bernardin
L
L
Luchetta
T
T
Binder
J R
JR
Lobeck
L
L
D003463:Cues; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008606:Mental Processes / Q000502:physiology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000523:psychology*; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011597:Psychomotor Performance / Q000502:physiology; D013998:Time Perception / Q000502:physiology*; D014705:Verbal Behavior / Q000502:physiology*