In a groundbreaking discovery announced on September 3, 2025, scientists have identified a new subtype of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) that presents predominantly with cognitive impairments but minimal motor dysfunction. This significant finding was made possible through a large-scale online cognitive assessment conducted by an international team led by researchers at King's College London.
Unlike traditional MS forms where physical symptoms such as muscle weakness or coordination issues are prominent, this newly recognized subtype affects brain functions related to memory, attention, processing speed, and executive control, leaving motor abilities largely intact. This means that many patients with this subtype may go undiagnosed as their physical capabilities appear normal.
The research emphasized that cognitive impairment affects approximately 40-70% of MS patients, yet it is often under-assessed in standard clinical practices that focus on mobility and sensory symptoms. To address this, the team developed an accessible online tool to efficiently evaluate cognitive function across diverse patient populations worldwide.
Brain imaging studies of those with this subtype revealed distinct patterns of cortical thinning and white matter changes in brain regions responsible for high-level cognitive tasks, such as the prefrontal cortex. These findings not only challenge the traditional understanding of MS as a uniformly physical disease but also highlight the necessity for routine cognitive screening.
Experts believe this discovery will enable more precise patient stratification and foster tailored therapeutic approaches, including cognitive rehabilitation and targeted drug treatments. The identification of this subtype underscores the importance of integrating comprehensive cognitive assessments into MS management to improve quality of life and treatment outcomes.
This research heralds a new era in MS care, promoting better recognition of hidden cognitive symptoms and offering hope for personalized medicine strategies to millions affected globally.
