Socioeconomic impact of depression and pain in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

BACKGROUND

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are associated with a high burden of depression, pain, and physical disability, all of which significantly impair quality of life. At the same time, discussions on the cost-effectiveness of treatment strategies are gaining importance. However, it is not yet known whether specific symptom burdens are particularly cost-driving. This study aims to provide a comprehensive cost analysis considering depression and pain to optimise future healthcare strategies.

METHODS

This prospective cross-sectional multicentre study was conducted at twelve centres of the Neuromyelitis Optica Study Group (NEMOS). Over a three-year period, 115 NMOSD patients were recruited. Disease-related costs, pain, and depression were assessed using standardised questionnaires. A generalised linear model analysis and graphical sub-cost analysis were performed to identify key cost drivers. The robustness of our findings was confirmed using two independent depression rating scales.

RESULTS

In our sample of 115 patients, 77% suffered from chronic pain with a median pain intensity of 4.0 on the numeric rating scale (NRS). Moreover, 56% of patients reported depressive symptoms. In multivariate regression analysis, depression emerged as a significant predictor of total costs (p < 0.001) alongside the EDSS score (p < 0.001) and age (p = 0.004). In contrast, pain was not significantly influencing total costs (p = 0.057), despite being reported by the majority of patients. Graphical analyses highlighted informal costs as the main cost driver in patients with increasing depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Depressive symptoms are not only common in NMOSD patients but also represent a major cost driver alongside neurological disability. Addressing these symptoms is essential for optimal patient care and may help reduce the socioeconomic burden.