Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-term disease that attacks the central nervous system (CNS), which consists of the brain and spinal cord. MS is often accompanied by feelings of depression. Several studies have reported high rates of depression in MS. Nevertheless, the variation in the reported prevalence rates of depression in MS is found in some literature. Thus, this review aim to critically appraise the published literature related to the prevalance of depression in patients with MS. A literature search was performed using the following electronic databases: Ovid Medline (1900 to 2016), Embase (1997 to 2016 February 05), Embase Classic (1947 to 1973), and PsycINFO (1806 to 1966). A study was included if the following criteria were met: 1) using English-language; 2) the study provides primary data; 3) the participants are multiple sclerosis’s patients with depression manifestation; and 4) reporting the estimated prevalence of MS and depression. Ten studies met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The study have heterogeneity regarding the study setting and sampling frame. Although there is a variation in the reported prevalence rate, all studies found that depression occurrence is higher in the MS population.

Keywords: multiple sclerosis; depression; prevalence, central nervous system.