Sick leave in the prodromal phase of multiple sclerosis and its association with diagnostic delay: A short report.

Abstract

The prodromal features of multiple sclerosis (MS) are non-specific and are prevalent in the general population. Several studies indicate an increased use of healthcare resources by individuals with MS in the years preceding their diagnosis, suggesting a trend of deteriorating health prior to the clinical manifestation of MS. This study aimed to capture the possible associations of sick leave with the timing of the diagnosis of MS. Our findings suggest that sick leave with neurological diagnoses - excluding MS, and other diagnoses during the year before MS onset is associated with a shorter time to MS diagnosis.