Cognitive dysfunction refers to a broad range of changes and abnormalities in our thinking that affects a person’s memory, perception, language, problem-solving, and other mental abilities. Cognitive dysfunction is not a specific medical condition, rather a term used to describe a group of symptoms that can arise from underlying brain conditions. Part 2 of the Neuroimmunity Series will describe cognitive dysfunction that results from three common neuroautoimmune diseases: multiple sclerosis, autoimmune encephalitis, and neurosarcoidosis.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is a neuroautoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to inflammation and damage to the protective myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers. It is believed to be caused by the dysregulation of certain immune cells, which are crucial in defending the brain from viruses and certain bacteria. When these cells become dysregulated, they target the body’s own cells and tissues, leading to autoimmune disorders. Cognitive deficits of MS include poor attention, decreased memory, motor changes, and reduced speed of information processing which occur in approximately 40% of patients.
Autoimmune Encephalitis (AE)
Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) is a type of inflammatory neuroautoimmune disorder characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy brain tissue. In patients with AE, the body’s immune system produces antibodies that target specific proteins found on neurons, leading to inflammation and damage in the brain. Since there are many specific proteins affected in patients with autoimmune encephalitis, there can be a wide range of thinking changes. Symptoms of AE include memory problems, mood swings, personality changes, tremors, seizures, loss of coordination, hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and difficulty understanding language.
Neurosarcoidosis
Neurosarcoidosis is a rare form of sarcoidosis (a disease involving abnormal collections of inflammatory cells that form lumps known as granulomata) that specifically involves the nervous system. It is characterized by the development of granulomas that can build up on the brain, spinal cord, cranial nerves, or the protective membranes of these areas. This leads to thinking changes in processing speed, attention concentration, memory, to name a few. In addition, physical problems can occur with vision, difficulty swallowing, fatigue, headaches, weakness in sensory nerves, and in some cases seizures.
Neuropsychologist’s Role
The role of the neuropsychologist with neuroautoimmune disorders is to evaluate a person’s thinking and behavioral abilities that typically becomes disrupted as a result of the above conditions. Upon obtaining objective neurocognitive data, the neuropsychologist works with your medical team to address the severity, treatments needed, and outcomes of these patients. Reintegration into work, life, school, etc., is a vital part of treatment. Here at NRS|LS, our board-certified neuropsychologists are prepared to treat you or your family member that may be affected by impaired neuroimmunity causing a variety of psychological and neuropsychological changes.
Stay tuned for Part 3 of the Neuroimmunity Series.
Please call our office for further information.
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Julianna R. Greco
Academy of Allied Health and Science
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Robert B. Sica, Ph.D.
Board-Certified in Neuropsychology
Director, Neuropsychological Rehabilitation Services|LifeSpan