CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS: FATIGUE AS A CHALLENGING SYMPTOM AND ITS IMPACT ON THE PATIENT'S QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, often associated with disabling symptoms, among which fatigue stands out as one of the main determinants of reduced quality of life. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of fatigue in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis, as well as to investigate its main pathophysiological mechanisms and impacts on functionality. This is an integrative literature review conducted through searches in the PubMed, SciELO, and Virtual Health Library databases, with previously established inclusion and exclusion criteria. After the selection process, 9 studies were included in the review. The results showed that the prevalence of fatigue ranged from 58.7% to 78.4% among patients, being associated with reduced motivation, impairment in physical and cognitive performance, and significant impact on activities of daily living. A relationship was also observed between higher levels of fatigue and greater functional disability, as well as associations with psychosocial factors such as depression and anxiety. It is concluded that fatigue has a multifactorial nature and exerts a significant impact on the functionality and quality of life of patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Therefore, early recognition and the adoption of multidisciplinary therapeutic strategies are essential for its proper management.