How much is the cost of multiple sclerosis--systematic literature review.

UNLABELLED: In Poland, a data on MS costs is lacking. AIM: The systematic review of cost of illness studies was conducted to estimate the average annual cost of MS patient and its breakdown. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The PubMed database was searched for relevant literature. Following search criteria were used: "multiple sclerosis", "costs", "cost of illness" and "disease burden". Articles written in English including total costs published 2002-2012 were included. In total 17 studies were classified. The costs were re-calculated into USD Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). The available approach from the literature was used for the cost breakdown presentation. RESULTS: The average patient was 47 years old with EDSS equals 4 and 13 years from the date of diagnosis. The average annual cost was 41 133 US$ PPP. The direct costs did not exceed 70% of total costs in any study. The pharmaceutical expenses were one of the most important contributors to the direct costs. Only 40% of patients were active on the labor market what translated into the loss of productivity and consequently an increase in total costs. CONCLUSIONS: The preformed systematic review revealed that multiple sclerosis imposes a huge economic burden on the healthcare system and society. It happens due to productivity loss and caregiver burden.