Enhanced cognitive outcomes with telehealth-based tDCS in multiple sclerosis: Results from a sham-controlled RCT.

BACKGROUND

Cognitive impairment is common in multiple sclerosis (MS). Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with adaptive cognitive training (aCT) may improve clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of active vs. sham home-based tDCS + aCT on cognitive function.

METHODS

Participants with MS and fatigue, without depression or severe cognitive impairment, were randomized to complete 30 remotely supervised 20-minute sessions of active (2.0 mA) or sham tDCS targeting the left anodal dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, paired with aCT. Randomization was stratified by high (H) vs. low (L) EDSS. The Brief International Cognitive Assessment in MS (BICAMS) was administered at baseline and intervention end, with scores converted to demographics-adjusted z-scores.

RESULTS

Out of 117 participants, 106 completed BICAMS assessments. Compliance was high; 92% completed >25 sessions. Mean change in BICAMS z-score was significantly greater in the active (n = 55: 0.06 ± 0.56) versus sham (n = 51: -0.16 ± 0.50) group (p = 0.035). The interaction between treatment and EDSS for BICAMS z-score was not significant (p = .254), but benefits were greater in H EDSS (-0.00 ± 0.57 vs. -0.37 ± 0.39; p = .022) than L EDSS (0.11 ± 0.56 vs. -0.01 ± 0.53; p = .411).

CONCLUSIONS

Active vs. sham tDCS + aCT resulted in significantly better cognitive outcomes, with the greatest benefit in those with high neurologic disability.CLINICALTRIALS.GOV; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03838770; IDENTIFIER: NCT03838770.