INTRODUCTION: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting both adults and children, often accompanied by various psychiatric disorders. Research on psychiatric symptoms in pediatric MS is relatively limited in comparison with adult-onset MS. To evaluate depression and anxiety levels in pediatric MS patients and compare them to healthy controls, and to assess the impact of clinical and sociodemographic variables on these levels.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 15 pediatric MS patients and 15 age and socioeconomic-matched healthy controls. Anxiety and depression levels were assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI).
RESULTS: No significant difference was observed between the MS group and controls in terms of CDI scores, STAI state, and anxiety trait scores. Nevertheless, individuals in the MS group exhibited higher levels of trait anxiety. The average disability score among MS participants was low (0.33), potentially explaining the comparable psychiatric symptom levels with the controls. Sociodemographic data revealed a significant difference in fathers’ education levels between the groups.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Depression and anxiety levels in pediatric MS patients were similar to healthy controls, possibly attributed to the low disability levels in the MS group. Extensive research is crucial to understand better psychiatric comorbidities and their correlation with disability progression in pediatric MS.

The primary focus in treating restless legs syndrome (RLS) is medical interventions. Although the benefits of physical activity are becoming increasingly evident, studies on the impact of exercise in people with both multiple sclerosis (MS) and RLS are limited. In this case report, we explored the effects of aerobic activity on RLS severity and related symptoms in a woman with RLS and MS. The RLS diagnostic criteria guided the diagnosis. Given the extensive impact of RLS symptoms, comprehensive assessment tools were utilized. Over 24 sessions, the patient performed aerobic exercise using a reclined exercise bike under the supervision of a physical therapist. Initially, each session lasted 20 min and consisted of 2-3 min of warm-up, 15 min of activity, and 2-3 min of cool-down. The duration of each session gradually increased to 30 min over 12 weeks. The study findings indicate that aerobic exercise may alleviate RLS severity, enhance sleep quality, reduce daytime sleepiness, improve gait, and enhance the quality of life in people with RLS and MS.