Longitudinal Changes in Neuropsychological Functioning in Japanese Patients with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1: A Five Year Follow-Up Study

Background: Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a form of muscular dystrophy that causes various symptoms, including those of the central nervous system. Some studies have reported cognitive decline in patients with DM1, although the available evidence is limited.

Objective: This study aimed to describe longitudinal differences in neuropsychological function in patients with DM1.

Methods: A total of 66 Japanese adult patients with DM1 were investigated using a neuropsychological battery to assess several cognitive domains, including memory, processing speed, and executive function. The patients underwent neuropsychological evaluation approximately five years after baseline (Times 1 and 2).

Results: Thirty-eight patients underwent a second neuropsychological evaluation. The participants in the Time 2 evaluation were younger than those who did not participate in Time 2. Patients showed a decline in the Mini-Mental State Examination, Trail Making Test (TMT), Block Design, and Symbol Digit Modalities Test at Time 2 (P < 0.05). Age at Time 1 was associated with a decline in TMT-A and TMT-B scores (rho = 0.57 and 0.45, respectively).

Conclusion: These results suggest a cognitive decline in patients with DM1 and warrant further investigation into the possible effects of age-related changes.