Hand dexterity and direct disease related cost in multiple sclerosis

Methods The nine hole peg test (9HPT) is an emerging outcome measure in clinical trials in multiple sclerosis (MS). In this study we investigated how performance on the 9HPT at baseline is related to annualized direct MS related cost. Methods We enrolled patients with a definite diagnosis of MS from two Canadian MS centers. 9HPT and demographic information were recorded at baseline, and patients prospectively recorded all MS related costs for 6 months. Costs were compared among five groups according to the baseline 9HPT, and we built a multiple linear regression model including cost (dependent variable) and 9HPT at baseline, age, disease duration, sex and disease course (independent predictor variables). Results We analyzed data from 298 patients. Cost significantly increased with increasing 9HPT scores (p < 0.0001), with the costs for health care providers, changes to the home or car and long-term care dominating in the most disabled patient groups. The 9HPT score was a significant predictor of cost in the regression model (p = 0.006). Conclusion Performance on the 9HPT is closely related to cost. Our data add another aspect of patient relevance to using the 9HPT as an outcome measure in clinical trials.