Language disorders in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review

Background: Although cognitive impairments are common in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), language impairments are not well defined. Objective: The goal of this review was to examine the presence and nature of language disorders associated with MS. Method: A search of PubMed and PsycINFO databases was conducted using combinations of the following terms: language disorders, language pathology, language impairment, multiple sclerosis, communication, language and speech. Studies were chosen based on the original language of the text, year of publication, peer review status and specificity of the results regarding language and communication disorders. Results: This review covers 30 articles from 13 countries. The studies involved patients with different types of MS. Various language impairments were reported in MS. However, since the methods used in the studies varied widely, it is difficult to draw any conclusions thus far. Conclusion: Given the various cognitive deficits in MS, it is expected that higher language abilities would be affected. This aspect should be investigated in future studies.