Theory of Mind, Perception of Affective Prosody and Empathy in Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis

Despite extensive knowledge on cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis, little is known concerning social cognition in secondary progressive MS (SPMS). Social cognition is defined as the neuropsychological abilities of Theory of Mind, perception of face and prosody, and empathy. Earlier studies have failed to distinguish between different grades of severity and different courses the diseases run. We have previously shown that already in the early stages of relapsing remitted MS, mild deficits of social cognition can be identified. In the present study, 25 patients with SPMS were tested regarding their theory of mind, perception of affective prosody and facial expressions, and empathy and were compared to 25 healthy controls. Significant deficits in perception of affective prosody and facial expression, theory of mind and executive functions were found. According to self-reports, empathy was described as being unimpaired. Deficits in social cognition negatively influence daily life of patients and interaction between neurologists and patients.