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O'Donnell E, Schuette A, Waltz M, Aaen G, Benson L, Gorman M, Lotze T, Mar S, Ness J, Rodriguez M, Tillema JM, Schreiner T, Wheeler Y, Casper TC, Chitnis T. Patient and family views on research priorities and design of clinical trials and research studies in pediatric multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2024:13524585241274580. [PMID: 39286941 DOI: 10.1177/13524585241274580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES This survey study aimed to (1) identify patient/family research priorities in pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS), and (2) delineate optimized methods for research study/clinical trials design, engagement, and implementation. METHODS Participants were as follows: (1) parents of a child (<18 years) with POMS enrolled in a national registry, (2) adolescents (13-17 years) with POMS in the registry, and (3) adults (18-40 years) with POMS receiving care at a registry affiliated clinic. Of 293 eligible participants, 192 completed surveys. RESULTS Experiences with health care and medications were generally positive but there remain areas of priority improvement. Incentives to participate in clinical trials included medications previously tested and in pill form, bloodwork/study visits required ⩾ every 3 months, cognitive testing ⩽1 hour, compensation for travel and time, ability to continue current multiple sclerosis (MS) medication, option to take study medication if on placebo, and individualized study feedback. Priorities for clinical research were (1) psychosocial impact, (2) cognitive/academic impact, (3) environmental risk, and (4) nutrition. CONCLUSIONS Results highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to study design and a focus on the impact of disease on daily life to best engage patients and families in POMS clinical trials and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen O'Donnell
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Gregory Aaen
- Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Soe Mar
- St. Louis Children's Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jayne Ness
- Children's Hospital of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Tanuja Chitnis
- Division of Child Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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2
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Ow N, Karp A, Ogeil J, Dilenge ME, Sébire G, Dahan-Oliel N, Kuspinar A, Mayo NE. Quality of life in Pediatric-Onset Multiple Sclerosis: Different disease course, different impact, different measurement approach needed. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 63:103820. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.103820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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3
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Ow N, Mozafarinia M, Mayo NE. Quality of life measures in pediatric multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Dev Med Child Neurol 2021; 63:1051-1058. [PMID: 33769574 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIM To identify generic measures used to measure quality of life (QoL) in pediatric multiple sclerosis research, estimate an overall score of children and adolescents with pediatric multiple sclerosis, and compare the scores to scores of typically developing children and adolescents. METHOD A systematic search was conducted on four databases. All studies were included if: the sample was children with pediatric demyelinating disorders; self-reported QoL/health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures or results were reported; and the mean age of the sample was below 21 years. Quality of the included articles was appraised using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool checklist. A meta-analysis was also conducted. RESULTS A total of 12 full-text articles were included. Content analysis showed that many components of QoL were not included in the measures. Seven studies were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analyzed score was 75.7 (95% confidence interval 71.2-80.3) with a pooled standard deviation of 16.6. Scores of typically developing children and children with pediatric multiple sclerosis were similar. INTERPRETATION Most measures assessed HRQoL and not QoL. Development of a condition-specific measure of QoL for children and adolescents with pediatric multiple sclerosis would make an important contribution to the field. What this paper adds Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures were used to measure quality of life in pediatric multiple sclerosis. HRQoL scores in pediatric multiple sclerosis were similar to typically developing children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki Ow
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center (RI-MUHC), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Maryam Mozafarinia
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center (RI-MUHC), Montreal, QC, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Nancy E Mayo
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center (RI-MUHC), Montreal, QC, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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4
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Characteristics of pediatric multiple sclerosis: A tertiary referral center study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0243031. [PMID: 33264341 PMCID: PMC7710048 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The present study represents one of the largest series of pediatric multiple sclerosis (PedMS) in Western Balkan region. This is the first study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of PedMS in the Serbian population. Methods This retrospective study on 54 PedMS, aged 7–17 years, was performed at the Clinic of Neurology and Psychiatry for Children and Youth in Belgrade, Serbia, a tertiary center for the diagnosis and treatment of children with neurological and psychiatric diseases. Results Female to male ratio was 37 (68.5%): 17 (31.5%). Family history of MS was noted in 9.3% and autoimmune diseases in 24.1% patients. Co-occurring migraine was in 7,4%. Monofocal onset of disease was present in 77.8% patients. The most common initial symptoms were optic neuritis (37%), sensory disturbances (31.5%), motor deficit (24.1%), cerebellar (18.5%) and brainstem lesions (16.7%), pain (9.3%), acute disseminated encephalomyelitis like symptoms (1.9%), and hearing loss (3.7%). Visual evoked potentials were pathological in 75.9% of patients. Oligoclonal bands were positive in 68.5% of patients. Magnetic resonance imaging showed periventricular (94.4%), infratentorial (77.8%), juxtacortical and cortical changes (55.6%) and changes in the cervical spinal cord (33.3%). The median EDSS score was 2.0. Conclusion Our cohort significantly differs from the literature data regarding more frequent occurrence of optic neuritis, hearing loss as a first symptom, the relapsing-remitting course of the disease, higher proportion of early onset of disease, presence of co-occurring migraine and the frequent occurrence of epilepsy and other autoimmune diseases in the family.
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Padilha IG, Fonseca APA, Pettengill ALM, Fragoso DC, Pacheco FT, Nunes RH, Maia ACM, da Rocha AJ. Pediatric multiple sclerosis: from clinical basis to imaging spectrum and differential diagnosis. Pediatr Radiol 2020; 50:776-792. [PMID: 31925460 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-019-04582-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) deserves special attention because of its impact on cognitive function and development. Although knowledge regarding pediatric MS has rapidly increased, understanding the peculiarities of this population remains crucial for disease management. There is limited expertise about the efficacy and safety of current disease-modifying agents. Although pathophysiology is not entirely understood, some risk factors and immunological features have been described and are discussed herein. While the revised International Pediatric MS Study Group diagnostic criteria have improved the accuracy of diagnosis, the recently revised McDonald criteria also offer some new insights into the pediatric population. It is fundamental that radiologists have strong knowledge about the vast spectrum of demyelinating disorders that can occur in childhood to ensure appropriate diagnosis and provide early treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor G Padilha
- Division of Neuroradiology, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences, Rua Dr. Cesário Motta Jr. 112, Vila Buarque, São Paulo, SP, 01221-020, Brazil.
- Division of Neuroradiology, Diagnósticos da América AS - DASA, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Ana P A Fonseca
- Division of Neuroradiology, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences, Rua Dr. Cesário Motta Jr. 112, Vila Buarque, São Paulo, SP, 01221-020, Brazil
- Division of Neuroradiology, Diagnósticos da América AS - DASA, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana L M Pettengill
- Division of Neuroradiology, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences, Rua Dr. Cesário Motta Jr. 112, Vila Buarque, São Paulo, SP, 01221-020, Brazil
- Division of Neuroradiology, Diagnósticos da América AS - DASA, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diego C Fragoso
- Division of Neuroradiology, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences, Rua Dr. Cesário Motta Jr. 112, Vila Buarque, São Paulo, SP, 01221-020, Brazil
- Division of Neuroradiology, Fleury Medicina e Saúde, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe T Pacheco
- Division of Neuroradiology, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences, Rua Dr. Cesário Motta Jr. 112, Vila Buarque, São Paulo, SP, 01221-020, Brazil
- Division of Neuroradiology, Diagnósticos da América AS - DASA, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renato H Nunes
- Division of Neuroradiology, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences, Rua Dr. Cesário Motta Jr. 112, Vila Buarque, São Paulo, SP, 01221-020, Brazil
- Division of Neuroradiology, Diagnósticos da América AS - DASA, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio C M Maia
- Division of Neuroradiology, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences, Rua Dr. Cesário Motta Jr. 112, Vila Buarque, São Paulo, SP, 01221-020, Brazil
- Division of Neuroradiology, Fleury Medicina e Saúde, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antônio J da Rocha
- Division of Neuroradiology, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences, Rua Dr. Cesário Motta Jr. 112, Vila Buarque, São Paulo, SP, 01221-020, Brazil
- Division of Neuroradiology, Diagnósticos da América AS - DASA, São Paulo, Brazil
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6
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Feng J, Rensel M. Review Of The Safety, Efficacy And Tolerability Of Fingolimod In The Treatment Of Pediatric Patients With Relapsing-Remitting Forms Of Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). PEDIATRIC HEALTH MEDICINE AND THERAPEUTICS 2019; 10:141-146. [PMID: 31814792 PMCID: PMC6858833 DOI: 10.2147/phmt.s220817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) is an immune-mediated, demyelinating, neurodegenerative disease that accounts for 3-5% of all multiple sclerosis (MS) cases. Although evidence suggests that it has similar risk factors and disease pathophysiology as adult-onset MS (AOMS), there are distinctive features in disease characteristics and patient demographics of POMS that require unique therapeutic development and treatment considerations. Gilenya® (Novartis International AG, Basel, Switzerland) (fingolimod) is a sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator that prevents lymphocytic outflow from peripheral lymph nodes. It has demonstrated efficacy in AOMS. In POMS, there have been three observational studies and one pivotal clinical trial evaluating the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of fingolimod. Currently, fingolimod is the only Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency approved disease-modifying therapy to treat POMS. This review will critically evaluate the available evidence of fingolimod in the treatment of POMS in detail, as well as discussing its treatment implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Feng
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mary Rensel
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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7
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW With the recognition that pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) is characterized by more prominent disease activity, earlier age at onset of disability milestones, and more prominent cognitive impairment compared with physical disability earlier in the disease course compared with adult-onset multiple sclerosis (AOMS), there has been increasing interest in identifying optimal and safe treatment approaches to achieve better disease control in this group. Injectable therapies have been traditionally used as first line in this population, although not formally approved. This review focuses on current treatment and monitoring approaches in POMS. RECENT FINDINGS In the past few years, and despite the paucity of FDA-approved medications for use in POMS, an increasing trend toward using newer disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in this group is observed. However, escalation (as opposed to induction) remains the most frequent approach, and many children continue to be untreated before age 18, particularly before age 12. The only FDA- and EMA-approved disease-modifying therapy in POMS is fingolimod; however, dimethyl fumarate, teriflunomide, natalizumab, ocrelizumab, and alemtuzumab either have been evaluated in observational studies or are being currently investigated in formal randomized controlled trials for use in POMS and appear to be safe in this group. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation has also been evaluated in a small series. Clinical outcome measures and MS biomarkers have been poorly studied in POMS; however, the use of composite functional scores, neurofilament light chain, optical coherence tomography, and imaging findings is being increasingly investigated to improve early diagnosis and efficient monitoring of POMS. Off-label use of newer DMTs in POMS is increasing, and based on retrospective data, and phase 2 trials, this approach appears to be safe in children. Results from ongoing trials will help clarify the safety and efficacy of these therapies in the future. Fingolimod is the only FDA-approved medication for use in POMS. Outcome measures and biomarkers used in AOMS are being studied in POMS and are greatly needed to quantify treatment response in this group.
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8
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Sa M, Green L, Abdel-Mannan O, Chong WKK, Jacques T, Clarke A, Childs AM, Lim M, Hemingway C, Hacohen Y. Is chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS) in children the same condition as in adults? Dev Med Child Neurol 2019; 61:490-496. [PMID: 30146710 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.13997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
This case series describes three children with chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS), an inflammatory condition characterized by a relapsing-remitting disease course responsive to steroids. The patients (two males, age 3y and 13y; one female, age 14y) presented with ataxia, dysarthria, and multiple cranial neuropathies. All patients demonstrated bilateral nodular lesions with contrast enhancement in the brainstem and cerebellum on magnetic resonance imaging, and perivascular lymphocytes and macrophages infiltrates on brain biopsies. Despite an initially good response to corticosteroids, all patients eventually became steroid-dependent or -resistant, with frequent relapses on maintenance immunosuppressive therapy. Natalizumab and intravenous immunoglobulin stopped neurological disease progression in Patient 1 but he died at 17 years from respiratory complications. Patient 2 went into remission on infliximab and intravenous methylprednisolone for several months but was then diagnosed with Epstein-Barr virus driven B-cell lymphoma 3 years after symptom onset. Patient 3 failed to respond to treatment and died 4 years after diagnosis. CLIPPERS disease in children is aggressive, with poor response to immunotherapy. Earlier use of newer immunotherapeutic agents such as natalizumab may be beneficial. Potential side effects need to be considered carefully. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Paediatric chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS) appears a more severe condition than previously reported in adults. Aggressive treatment before neuroaxonal loss may be required for a better outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Sa
- Paediatric Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Lydia Green
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Omar Abdel-Mannan
- Paediatric Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - W K Kling Chong
- Neuroradiology Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Thomas Jacques
- Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Antonia Clarke
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, St Georges Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Anne-Marie Childs
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Ming Lim
- Children's Neurosciences, Evelina London Children's Hospital at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, King's Health Partners Academic Health Science Centre, London, UK.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Cheryl Hemingway
- Paediatric Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Yael Hacohen
- Paediatric Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK.,Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
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9
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Rotondo E, Graziosi A, Di Stefano V, Mohn AA. Methylprednisolone-induced hepatotoxicity in a 16-year-old girl with multiple sclerosis. BMJ Case Rep 2018; 11:11/1/e226687. [PMID: 30567201 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2018-226687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease with demyelination of the central nervous system. High-dosage corticosteroids are the first-line therapy in the acute relapsing of MS. We report a case of severe high-dose methylprednisolone-induced acute hepatitis in a patient with a new diagnosis of MS. A 16-year-old girl was admitted for urticaria, angioedema, nausea and vomiting a month later she had been diagnosed with MS and treated with high-dosage methylprednisolone. Laboratory investigations showed hepatic insufficiency with grossly elevated liver enzymes. A liver biopsy showed focal centrilobular hepatocyte necrosis with interface hepatitis. Methylprednisolone-induced hepatotoxicity can confuse the clinical picture of patients with MS and complicate the differential diagnosis. We believe that each specialist should know it and monitor patients with MS taking high doses of methylprednisolone. As there is no screening model that predicts idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity, we promote screening for potential liver injury following pulse steroid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Rotondo
- Department of Paediatrics, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Di Stefano
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti, Italy
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10
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Wang CX, Greenberg BM. Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis: From Recognition to Practical Clinical Management. Neurol Clin 2018; 36:135-149. [PMID: 29157395 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2017.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (MS) is a rare but increasingly recognized condition that both parallels and diverges from adult-onset MS. Exposure to key risk determinants for MS disease pathogenesis may occur during childhood. The diagnosis of pediatric MS can be challenging due to potential for atypical presentations and a broad differential diagnosis. MS disease-modifying therapies have not been rigorously studied in children and raise difficult questions on how to manage a chronic inflammatory neurologic disease in a population of patients with developing central nervous and immune systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia X Wang
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-8806, USA
| | - Benjamin M Greenberg
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-8806, USA.
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11
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Abstract
Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS), once thought to be rare, is now being diagnosed in increasing numbers in children. Despite improvements to diagnostic criteria, the diagnosis and management of POMS remains challenging. The aim of this study is to retrospectively describe a growing POMS patient population seen at a single center over a 13 year period. Epidemiologic, clinical, neuroimaging, laboratory features and therapeutic management and outcome data were collected and analyzed. These data support associations between MS and environmental triggers such as obesity and vitamin D deficiency. Presenting symptoms, magnetic resonance imaging and laboratory findings were consistent with the existing literature; however, the prevalence of cortical lesions and abnormal saccadic pursuit is higher than other reports. Data also demonstrate a shift in practice from first- to second-line therapies over the observed period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Yamamoto
- 1 Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Matthew Ginsberg
- 2 Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Department of Pediatric Neurology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mary Rensel
- 3 Mellen Center, Department of Neurology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Manikum Moodley
- 4 Center for Pediatric Neurology, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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12
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Ghezzi A, Bianchi A, Baroncini D, Bertolotto A, Malucchi S, Bresciamorra V, Lanzillo R, Milani N, Martinelli V, Patti F, Chisari C, Rottoli M, Simone M, Paolicelli D, Visconti A. A multicenter, observational, prospective study of self- and parent-reported quality of life in adolescent multiple sclerosis patients self-administering interferon-β1a using RebiSmart™-the FUTURE study. Neurol Sci 2017; 38:1999-2005. [PMID: 28831635 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-017-3091-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Besides the impact of disease per se, the use of immunomodulatory therapies in adolescents with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) may have an effect on quality of life (QL). The FUTURE (Quality of liFe in adolescent sUbjecTs affected by mUltiple sclerosis treated with immunomodulatoRy agEnt using self-injecting device) study was designed to evaluate the changes in QL of Italian adolescents with RRMS receiving treatment with IFN-β1a (Rebif; 22 μg), administered subcutaneously three times weekly using the RebiSmart™ electronic autoinjection device over a 52-week period. Fifty adolescents with RRMS were enrolled and 40 completed the study. Changes from baseline to end of treatment (EoT) in adolescent self-reported and parent-reported QL were assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (PedsQL), which has been validated for use in pediatric MS and for which an Italian version is available. The adolescent self-reported total PedsQL4.0 score and all of its subscales tended to increase from baseline to EoT, the only exception being "Emotional functioning." In parent-reported measures, the total PedsQL4.0 score increased significantly from baseline to EoT (+ 5.27 points, p = 0.041). Significant increases were also evident for parent-reported "Psychosocial health summary score" (+ 5.90 points; p = 0.015) and "School functioning" (+ 7.84 points; p = 0.029). Our results indicate that adolescents with RRMS using the electronic injection device RebiSmart™ for self-administration of Rebif® can experience long-term improvements in QL.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ghezzi
- Azienda Ospedaliera S. Antonio Abate, Gallarate, Italy.
| | - A Bianchi
- Azienda Ospedaliera S. Antonio Abate, Gallarate, Italy
| | - D Baroncini
- Azienda Ospedaliera S. Antonio Abate, Gallarate, Italy
| | - A Bertolotto
- AOU S. Luigi Gonzaga Neurologia 2 CRESM, Orbassano, Italy
| | - S Malucchi
- AOU S. Luigi Gonzaga Neurologia 2 CRESM, Orbassano, Italy
| | - V Bresciamorra
- Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - R Lanzillo
- Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - N Milani
- Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | | | - F Patti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, and Advanced Technologies, Neuroscience Section, Multiple Sclerosis Center, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - C Chisari
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, and Advanced Technologies, Neuroscience Section, Multiple Sclerosis Center, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - M Rottoli
- Neurologia USS Malattie Autoimmuni - Centro Sclerosi Multipla ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - M Simone
- Dip di Scienze mediche di Base, Neuroscienze ed Organi di Senso Università di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - D Paolicelli
- Dip di Scienze mediche di Base, Neuroscienze ed Organi di Senso Università di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - A Visconti
- Medical Affair Department Merck Serono, Rome, Italy
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13
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Nosadini M, Sartori S, Sharma S, Dale RC. Immunotherapeutics in Pediatric Autoimmune Central Nervous System Disease: Agents and Mechanisms. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2017; 24:214-228. [PMID: 29103429 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2017.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Beyond the major advances produced by careful clinical-radiological phenotyping and biomarker development in autoimmune central nervous system disorders, a comprehensive knowledge of the range of available immune therapies and a deeper understanding of their action should benefit therapeutic decision-making. This review discusses the agents used in neuroimmunology and their mechanisms of action. First-line treatments typically include corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, and plasmapheresis, while for severe disease second-line "induction" agents such as rituximab or cyclophosphamide are used. Steroid-sparing agents such as mycophenolate, azathioprine, or methotrexate are often used in potentially relapsing or corticosteroid-dependent diseases. Lessons from adult neuroimmunology and rheumatology could be translated into pediatric autoimmune central nervous system disease in the future, including the potential utility of monoclonal antibodies targeting lymphocytes, adhesion molecules for lymphocytic migration, cytokines or their receptors, or complement. Finally, many agents used in other fields have multiple mechanisms of action, including immunomodulation, with potential usefulness in neuroimmunology, such as antibiotics, psychotropic drugs, probiotics, gut health, and ketogenic diet. All currently accepted and future potential agents have adverse effects, which can be severe; therefore, a "risk-versus-benefit" determination should guide therapeutic decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Nosadini
- Neuroimmunology group, Institute for Neuroscience and Muscle Research, Kids Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at Westmead, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia; Paediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Stefano Sartori
- Paediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Suvasini Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, Associated Kalawati Saran Children Hospital, Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi, India
| | - Russell C Dale
- Neuroimmunology group, Institute for Neuroscience and Muscle Research, Kids Research Institute at the Children's Hospital at Westmead, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.
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Iaffaldano P, Simone M, Lucisano G, Ghezzi A, Coniglio G, Brescia Morra V, Salemi G, Patti F, Lugaresi A, Izquierdo G, Bergamaschi R, Cabrera-Gomez JA, Pozzilli C, Millefiorini E, Alroughani R, Boz C, Pucci E, Zimatore GB, Sola P, Lus G, Maimone D, Avolio C, Cocco E, Sajedi SA, Costantino G, Duquette P, Shaygannejad V, Petersen T, Fernández Bolaños R, Paolicelli D, Tortorella C, Spelman T, Margari L, Amato MP, Comi G, Butzkueven H, Trojano M. Prognostic indicators in pediatric clinically isolated syndrome. Ann Neurol 2017; 81:729-739. [DOI: 10.1002/ana.24938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2016] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Iaffaldano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sense Organs; University of Bari Aldo Moro; Bari Italy
| | - Marta Simone
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sense Organs; University of Bari Aldo Moro; Bari Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lucisano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sense Organs; University of Bari Aldo Moro; Bari Italy
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, CORESEARCH; Pescara Italy
| | - Angelo Ghezzi
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Sant'Antonio Abate Hospital; Gallarate Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Brescia Morra
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - Giuseppe Salemi
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience; University of Palermo; Palermo Italy
| | - Francesco Patti
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences and Technologies, Multiple Sclerosis Center; University of Catania; Catania Italy
| | - Alessandra Lugaresi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuro Motor Sciences; University of Bologna; Bologna Italy
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Science and Bellaria Hospital; Bologna Italy
| | - Guillermo Izquierdo
- Department of Neurology; Virgin of Hope of Macarena University Hospital; Seville Spain
| | - Roberto Bergamaschi
- Interdepartment Multiple Sclerosis Research Center; C. Mondino National Institute of Neurology Foundation; Pavia Italy
| | | | - Carlo Pozzilli
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Department of Neurology and Psychiatry; Sapienza University; Rome Italy
| | - Enrico Millefiorini
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Umberto I Hospital; Sapienza University; Rome Italy
| | - Raed Alroughani
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine; Amiri Hospital; Kuwait City Kuwait
| | - Cavit Boz
- Karadeniz Technical University; Trabzon Turkey
| | - Eugenio Pucci
- Neurology Unit, ASUR Marche Hospital; Macerata Italy
| | | | - Patrizia Sola
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurology Unit; University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Sant'Agostino-Estense Hospital; Modena Italy
| | - Giacomo Lus
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, II Division of Neurology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine; Second University of Naples; Naples Italy
| | - Davide Maimone
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital; Catania Italy
| | - Carlo Avolio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences; University of Foggia; Foggia Italy
| | - Eleonora Cocco
- Department of Public Health, Clinical and Molecular Medicine; University of Cagliari; Cagliari Italy
| | - Seyed Aidin Sajedi
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Golestan Hospital; Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences; Ahvaz Iran
| | | | - Pierre Duquette
- Department of Neurology, Notre Dame Hospital; Montreal Quebec Canada
| | - Vahid Shaygannejad
- Neurosciences Research Center and Department of Neurology; Isfahan University of Medical Sciences; Isfahan Iran
| | | | | | - Damiano Paolicelli
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sense Organs; University of Bari Aldo Moro; Bari Italy
| | - Carla Tortorella
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sense Organs; University of Bari Aldo Moro; Bari Italy
| | - Tim Spelman
- Department of Neurology, Box Hill Hospital; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Medicine at Royal Melbourne Hospital; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - Lucia Margari
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sense Organs; University of Bari Aldo Moro; Bari Italy
| | - Maria Pia Amato
- Department of NEUROFARBA; University of Florence; Florence Italy
| | - Giancarlo Comi
- Department of Neurology; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, San Raffaele Scientific Institute; Milan Italy
| | - Helmut Butzkueven
- Department of Neurology, Box Hill Hospital; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Medicine at Royal Melbourne Hospital; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - Maria Trojano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences, and Sense Organs; University of Bari Aldo Moro; Bari Italy
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Jancic J, Nikolic B, Ivancevic N, Djuric V, Zaletel I, Stevanovic D, Peric S, van den Anker JN, Samardzic J. Multiple Sclerosis in Pediatrics: Current Concepts and Treatment Options. Neurol Ther 2016; 5:131-143. [PMID: 27640189 PMCID: PMC5130919 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-016-0052-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, autoimmune, inflammatory, demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. MS is increasingly recognized in the pediatric population, and it is usually diagnosed around 15 years of age. The exact etiology of MS is still not known, although autoimmune, genetic, and environmental factors play important roles in its development, making it a multifactorial disease. The disease in children almost always presents in the relapsing-remittent form. The therapy involves treatment of relapses, and immunomodulatory and symptomatic treatment. The treatment of children with MS has to be multidisciplinary and include pediatric neurologists, ophthalmologists, psychologists, physiotherapists, and if necessary, pediatric psychiatrists and pharmacologists. The basis of MS therapy should rely on drugs that are able to modify the course of the disease, i.e. immunomodulatory drugs. These drugs can be subdivided into two general categories: first-line immunomodulatory therapy (interferon beta-1a, interferon beta-1b, glatiramer acetate) and second-line immunomodulatory therapy (natalizumab, mitoxantrone, fingolimod, teriflunomide, azathioprine, rituximab, dimethyl fumarate, daclizumab). Treatment of relapses involves the use of high intravenous doses of corticosteroids, administration of intravenous immunoglobulins, and plasmapheresis. We summarize here the current available information related to the etiology and treatment options in MS. Early administration of immunomodulatory therapy is beneficial in adults, while more studies are needed to prove their effectiveness in pediatric populations. Therefore, pediatric MS still represents a great challenge for both, the early and correct diagnosis, as well as its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasna Jancic
- Clinic of Neurology and Psychiatry for Children and Youth, Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Blazo Nikolic
- Clinic of Neurology and Psychiatry for Children and Youth, Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nikola Ivancevic
- Clinic of Neurology and Psychiatry for Children and Youth, Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vesna Djuric
- Clinic of Neurology and Psychiatry for Children and Youth, Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivan Zaletel
- Institute of Histology and Embryology "Aleksandar Đ. Kostić", Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dejan Stevanovic
- Clinic of Neurology and Psychiatry for Children and Youth, Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sasa Peric
- Clinic of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Military Medical Academy, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - John N van den Anker
- Division of Paediatric Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, University of Basel Children's Hospital, Basel, Switzerland.,Division of Pediatric Clinical Pharmacology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.,Intensive Care and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janko Samardzic
- Division of Paediatric Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics, University of Basel Children's Hospital, Basel, Switzerland. .,Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1, 11129, Belgrade, Serbia.
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16
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17
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Rossman IT, Cohen JA. Should MRI be the primary endpoint of phase 3 trials in multiple sclerosis? Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2016; 12:489-91. [PMID: 26800293 DOI: 10.1586/1744666x.2016.1145549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ian T Rossman
- a Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research , Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , OH , USA
| | - Jeffrey A Cohen
- a Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research , Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , OH , USA
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18
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Fragoso YD, Alves-Leon SV, Barreira AA, Callegaro D, Brito Ferreira ML, Finkelsztejn A, Gomes S, Magno Goncalves MV, Moraes Machado MI, Marques VD, Cunha Matta AP, Papais-Alvarenga RM, Apostolos Pereira SL, Tauil CB. Fingolimod Prescribed for the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis in Patients Younger Than Age 18 Years. Pediatr Neurol 2015; 53:166-8. [PMID: 26026897 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2015.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Revised: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 03/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There have been no clinical trials for approval of medications for treating multiple sclerosis in patients younger than age 18 years. All treatments are based on personal experience and data from open observational studies. Fingolimod is an oral drug for multiple sclerosis that has been shown to be efficient and safe in adults. The aim of our study is to describe patients with multiple sclerosis who started treatment with fingolimod before the age of 18 years. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS Seventeen patients treated with fingolimod were identified in the Brazilian database of children and adolescents with multiple sclerosis. The average time of use of the drug was 8.6 months. RESULTS Fingolimod showed a good safety and efficacy profile in these patients, all of whom had very active multiple sclerosis. After starting treatment with fingolimod, only one patient had a relapse and a new lesion on magnetic resonance imaging. The patients' degree of disability did not progress. No major adverse events were reported in relation to the first dose of the drug, nor in the short- and medium-term treatment. No patient has been followed for longer than 18 months, thus limiting long-term conclusions. CONCLUSIONS Off-label use of fingolimod in patients younger than age 18 years may be a good therapeutic option for multiple sclerosis control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yara Dadalti Fragoso
- Department of Neurology and MS Unit, Universidade Metropolitana de Santos, Santos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Soniza Vieira Alves-Leon
- Department of Neurology and MS Unit, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Department of Neurology and MS Unit, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Dagoberto Callegaro
- Department of Neurology and MS Unit, Hospital das Clinicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Alessandro Finkelsztejn
- Department of Neurology and MS Unit, Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Sidney Gomes
- Department of Neurology and MS Unit, Hospital Beneficencia Portuguesa and Hospital Paulistano, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Carlos Bernardo Tauil
- Department of Neurology and MS Unit, Hospital de Base do Distrito Federal, Brasilia, DF, Brazil
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19
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Hinton D, Kirk S. Paediatric multiple sclerosis: a qualitative study of families' diagnosis experiences. Arch Dis Child 2015; 100:623-9. [PMID: 25552262 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2014-306523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine children's and parents' experiences of obtaining a diagnosis of paediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) and identify potential facilitators and barriers to early diagnosis. DESIGN Qualitative, semi-structured interviews conducted face-to-face in home settings with 31 parents and 21 children and adolescents (8-17 years old) with a clinical diagnosis of MS. Participants were recruited from 16 NHS Trusts and four MS voluntary organisations in the UK. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim and analysed using the constant comparative method. RESULTS Time to diagnosis ranged from 1 to 96 months (median 11.5, mean 23.3, SD 27.3). The findings suggest that delayed presentation to healthcare services, generalists' assumptions about the nature of reported symptoms, lack of awareness of paediatric MS and delayed referral to specialists in paediatric MS were barriers to early investigation and accurate diagnosis. Children, adolescents and parents felt that their concerns about the child's health were not always taken seriously during medical consultations and that clinicians could be reluctant to diagnose MS in childhood. This created additional uncertainty about the child's condition and long-term prognosis. CONCLUSIONS Obtaining a diagnosis of paediatric MS can be a challenging and lengthy process with potentially adverse implications for the health of children/adolescents. Valuing families' knowledge and experience of their child's health, performing a thorough medical examination early in the disease course and organising prompt referrals may aid the early investigation and diagnosis of this disease. In view of the diagnostic challenges, children/adolescents with suspected MS would benefit from early referrals to specialists in paediatric MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Hinton
- University of Manchester, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, Manchester, UK
| | - Susan Kirk
- University of Manchester, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, Manchester, UK
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20
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Boster AL, Ford CC, Neudorfer O, Gilgun-Sherki Y. Glatiramer acetate: long-term safety and efficacy in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2015; 15:575-86. [DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2015.1040768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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21
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Parrish JB, Farooq O, Weinstock-Guttman B. Cognitive deficits in pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis: what does the future hold? Neurodegener Dis Manag 2014; 4:137-46. [PMID: 24832031 DOI: 10.2217/nmt.14.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis is relatively rare and research regarding disease characteristics is in its infancy. Regardless, there are a growing number of studies finding early cognitive deficits in this population. There are some similarities in outcomes to those seen in the adult-onset multiple sclerosis population, but also several important differences. With specific regard to cognitive functioning in pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis, there is evidence of deficit in nearly a third of patients, with impairment primarily in areas of processing speed, visual-spatial processing and language. There are additional findings of fatigue and depression that impact functional outcomes requiring further attention in assessment and treatment considerations. This paper also explores other areas requiring increased focus, including treatment and outcomes, neuroimaging and additional disease-modifying factors (comorbidities, socioeconomic status, race and so on).
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy B Parrish
- Department of Neurology, University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo General Medical Center, 100 High Street, Ste. D-2, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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22
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Lugaresi A, di Ioia M, Travaglini D, Pietrolongo E, Pucci E, Onofrj M. Risk-benefit considerations in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2013; 9:893-914. [PMID: 23836975 PMCID: PMC3699254 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s45144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system and mainly affects young adults. Its natural history has changed in recent years with the advent of disease-modifying drugs, which have been available since the early 1990s. The increasing number of first-line and second-line treatment options, together with the variable course of the disease and patient lifestyles and expectations, makes the therapeutic decision a real challenge. The aim of this review is to give a comprehensive overview of the main present and some future drugs for relapsing-remitting MS, including risk-benefit considerations, to enable readers to draw their own conclusions regarding the risk-benefit assessment of personalized treatment strategies, taking into account not only treatment-related but also disease-related risks. We performed a Medline literature search to identify studies on the treatment of MS with risk stratification and risk-benefit considerations. We focused our attention on studies of disease-modifying, immunomodulating, and immunosuppressive drugs, including monoclonal antibodies. Here we offer personal considerations, stemming from long-term experience in the treatment of MS and thorough discussions with other neurologists closely involved in the care of patients with the disease. MS specialists need to know not only the specific risks and benefits of single drugs, but also about drug interactions, either in simultaneous or serial combination therapy, and patient comorbidities, preferences, and fears. This has to be put into perspective, considering also the risks of untreated disease in patients with different clinical and radiological characteristics. There is no single best treatment strategy, but therapy has to be tailored to the patient. This is a time-consuming task, rich in complexity, and influenced by the attitude towards risk on the parts of both the patient and the clinical team. The broader the MS drug market becomes, the harder it will be for the clinician to help the patient decide which therapeutic strategy to opt for.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Lugaresi
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University “G d’Annunzio”, Chieti, Italy
| | - Maria di Ioia
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University “G d’Annunzio”, Chieti, Italy
| | - Daniela Travaglini
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University “G d’Annunzio”, Chieti, Italy
| | - Erika Pietrolongo
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University “G d’Annunzio”, Chieti, Italy
| | - Eugenio Pucci
- Operative Unit Neurologia ASUR Marche Area Vasta 3, Macerata, Italy
| | - Marco Onofrj
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University “G d’Annunzio”, Chieti, Italy
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