Visual Evoked Potential Latency Prolongation in MS: Correlation with Cognitive Performance on a Computerized Testing Battery (P07.260)

Objective: To examine the association of visual evoked potential (VEP) latency and high-contrast visual acuity (VA) with cognitive function in MS patients using a standardized computerized battery. Background Cognition and vision are now recognized as important domains for clinical trials assessment in MS. The correlation of VEP conduction delay and VA with cognitive impairment has not been described. Design/Methods: Participants received a VEP evaluation as well as a Snellen vision test and completed a standardized, validated MindStreams battery designed to detect mild impairment (NeuroTrax Corp., NY) in their primary language. VEP latency categories were: normal =113 and =130 and =150 and 170 msec. Results: Among MS patients (n=435, 870 eyes), Accounting for age, disease duration, and within-patient, inter-eye correlations, abnormal VEP latency was associated with poorer overall battery performance (Global Cognitive Score, p Conclusions: Abnormal VEP latency and high-contrast VA in patients with MS may be associated with reduced cognitive function, particularly in domains related to executive function. Longer VEP latency may be particularly related to poorer visual spatial processing. Further studies will examine the role of afferent visual dysfunction and retinal axonal and neuronal loss in the relation of VEP latency to cognitive impairment and work disability in MS cohorts. Disclosure: Dr. Chahin has nothing to disclose. Dr. Balcer has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec, Vaccinex and Bayer as a consultant and has received honoraria from Biogen Idec and Novartis. Dr. Zarif has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec as a consultant. Ms. Bumstead has received personal compenstion for activities with Biogen Idec and Teva Neuroscience as a consultant. Dr. Fafard has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mebrahtu has nothing to disclose. Dr. Galetta has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec Teva, and Novartis as a speaker.Dr. Galetta has received research support from Biogen Idec. Dr. Doniger has received personal compensation for activities with NeuroTrax Corporation as an employee. Dr. Gudesblatt has received personal compensation for activities with Biogen Idec, Teva Neuroscience, Lundbeck Research USA, Inc. and Medtronic as a consultant.