Objective: This study explores utility of the MDS Nonmotor-Symptom Questionnaire (MDS-NMS-Q) in neuropsychological evaluations of people with Parkinson’s disease (PwP) considering Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS).

Background: Nonmotor symptoms are common in PwP considering DBS. These symptoms are often reported to fluctuate according to medication state. The MDS-NMS-Q is a validated self-report questionnaire that surveys 13 domains of neuropsychiatric, autonomic, and somatic PD symptoms. It also queries degree of fluctuation for 6 domains and 2 symptoms.

Method: The MDS-NMS-Q is administered to all PwP undergoing neuropsychological evaluation for DBS in our clinic. Responses are integrated with the treatment planning. This study explores PD nonmotor symptom severity and fluctuation reporting in this cohort.

Results: A sample of n=10 PwP has been collected, with an additional 15 anticipated before July. Completion time ranges from 4-10 minutes with minimal clarification needed. Preliminary analysis finds that those meeting diagnostic criteria for Mild Cognitive Impairment (PD-MCI) endorse greater cognitive dysfunction. Scores from the anxiety, depression, and apathy domains on the MDS-NMS-Q are correlated with responses from the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Starkstein Apathy Scale, respectively. The majority of PwP endorse non-motor fluctuations, with bladder symptoms, fatigue, and anxiety being the most common and significant.

Conclusion: The MDS-NMS-Q offers clinical utility in assessing nonmotor symptom severity and fluctuations in PwP considering DBS. Preliminary results support concurrent validity of domains scores. Future studies will examine changes in nonmotor symptoms and fluctuations following DBS at 1-year follow-up.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/application-of-the-mds-nonmotor-symptom-questionnaire-in-evaluation-of-deep-brain-stimulation-candidates/