Metabolomic profile of insulin resistance in patients with multiple sclerosis is associated to the severity of the disease.

Background: Dysglycemia and adiposity have been related to disability in patients with multiple sclerosis. The objective of this work was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of insulin resistance in patients with multiple sclerosis using the metabolomics Quantose score.

Methods: A total of 64 patients were accrued in the study. A blood sample was drawn to estimate the Quantose score, which is derived from fasting measurements of insulin, α-hydroxybutyrate, linoleoyl-glycerophosphocholine, and oleate, three nonglucose metabolites shown to correlate with insulin-stimulated glucose disposal.

Results: Insulin resistance was documented in 33 out of 64 patients and it was found in association with the degree of disability and the time from diagnosis. Patients with the secondary progressive form of the disease showed the highest prevalence.

Conclusion: Insulin resistance is frequent in patients with multiple sclerosis and might contribute to metabolic complications and general disability. Early markers of dysglycemia should be sought for in these patients to avoid additional deterioration of their quality of life.