Investigation of the Risk Factors of COVID-19 Seropositivity and Symptomatic COVID-19 in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

In the current situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) represent a population of particular interest because they may be at higher risk of contracting COVID-19. The present study aims to determine the risk factors of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) seropositivity and symptomatic COVID-19 in MS patients, in Qom Province, Iran.

In this cross-sectional study, 486 patients diagnosed with MS were included in the study. First, the demographic characteristics of patients were collected. Then, the patients underwent serology tests for anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. Later, the risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity and symptomatic COVID-19 were assessed. Finally, SPSS software, version 22 was used to analyze the data.

Fifty-five patients (11.8%) were seropositive for SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG), of whom 25% were symptomatic. The results showed a significant difference between the seropositive and seronegative groups in terms of MS type and comorbidity. Further, comorbidities, including hypertension and hypothyroidism were identified as the major risk factors for developing symptomatic disease. However, none of the variables were statistically associated with the severity of COVID-19.

The present study revealed a significantly lower seroprevalence of COVID-19 in MS patients than in the population. Based on the results, most seropositive patients were asymptomatic. Comorbidity was identified as the major risk factor for both SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity and symptomatic COVID-19. However, no relationship was observed between patients’ characteristics and MS features with the severity of COVID-19, which reinforces the continuation of regular treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic.