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Pinto AA, De Seze J, Jacob A, Reddel S, Yudina A, Tan K. Comparison of IVIg and TPE efficacy in the treatment of neurological disorders: a systematic literature review. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2023; 16:17562864231154306. [PMID: 37006460 PMCID: PMC10064470 DOI: 10.1177/17562864231154306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) are among the main immunotherapies for neurological disorders. Their benefit is greatest in immune-mediated conditions, but their distinct efficacy cannot be simply explained. Objectives: This review aimed to systematically identify studies comparing the efficacy of TPE and IVIg treatments for selected autoimmune neurological disorders and identify optimal therapies for each condition. Data Sources and Methods: PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched for original publications from 1990 to 2021. Additional publications were identified via expert recommendations. Conference abstracts older than 2017, review articles and articles without information on TPE and IVIg comparison in title and abstract were excluded. Risks of bias were descriptively addressed, without a meta-analysis. Results: Forty-four studies were included on Guillain–Barré syndrome (20 studies – 12 adult, 5 paediatric, 3 all ages), myasthenia gravis (11 studies –8 adult, 3 paediatric), chronic immune–mediated polyradiculoneuropathy (3 studies –1 adult, 2 paediatric), encephalitis (1 study in adults), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (5 studies –2 adult, 3 all ages) and other conditions (4 studies – all ages). TPE and IVIg were mostly similarly efficacious, measured by clinical outcomes and disease severity scores. Some studies recommended IVIg as easy to administer. TPE procedures, however, have been simplified and the safety has been improved. TPE is currently recommended for management of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder relapses and some myasthenia gravis subtypes, in which rapid removal of autoantibodies is crucial. Conclusion: Despite some limitations (e.g. the low evidence levels), this review provides an extensive 30-year-long overview of treatments for various conditions. Both IVIg and TPE are usually comparably efficacious options for autoimmune neurological disorders, with few exceptions. Treatment choices should be patient-tailored and based on available clinical resources. Better designed studies are needed to provide higher-level quality of evidence regarding clinical efficacy of TPE and IVIg treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jerome De Seze
- Department of Neurology, CHU Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Anu Jacob
- Department of Neurology, The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
- Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Stephen Reddel
- Department of Neurology, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anna Yudina
- Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies, Zaventem, Belgium
| | - Kevin Tan
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore
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Shivaram S, Nagappa M, Varghese N, Seshagiri DV, Duble S, Siddappa SA, Hesarur N, Sinha S, Taly AB. Rituximab in Myasthenia Gravis- Experience from a Low- and Middle-Income Country (LMIC) Setting. Neurol India 2022; 70:1931-1941. [PMID: 36352590 DOI: 10.4103/0028-3886.359277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an immune-mediated disorder of the neuromuscular junction. About 10% are refractory to immunosuppressive therapy. AIMS To analyze the response of patients with generalized MG to rituximab. METHODS AND MATERIALS A retrospective review of patients with MG who received rituximab was carried out (n = 13, M:F = 6:7, mean age: 44.84 ± 15.73 years). Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA), MGFA post-intervention status (MGFA-PIS), and Myasthenia Gravis Status and Treatment Intensity (MGSTI) were assessed before and after rituximab. RESULTS The duration of MG was 104.07 ± 92.25 months. Before rituximab, the MGFA was IIA/IIB/IIIA/IIIB/IVB/V in 1/1/2/6/2/1 patients and MGSTI was four in eight patients and six in three patients. The mean duration of follow up was 20.92 ± 14.06 months (range, 4 to 42 months). Dose reduction or discontinuation of cholinesterase inhibitors could be achieved 12 patients. Complete stable remission (CSR) and pharmacologic remission (PR) were achieved in one and four patients respectively and five patients had minimal manifestations. Most patients attained level 0, 1 or 2 MGSTI at last follow up. No rituximab infusion-related adverse events were noted. Three patients had exacerbation of MG between one to five weeks after rituximab administration. Three patients died, one each due to a cardiac event unrelated to MG or treatment, complications related to myasthenic crisis, and coronavirus disease. CONCLUSIONS Rituximab was effective in bringing about remission in MG and can be considered as a first-line agent. However, it has to be administered under close supervision as some patients develop exacerbation of MG akin to steroid-induced worsening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumanth Shivaram
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Madhu Nagappa
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Nibu Varghese
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Doniparthi V Seshagiri
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Shishir Duble
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Nagabushan Hesarur
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Sanjib Sinha
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Arun B Taly
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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Lynch E, Peek E, Reilly M, FitzGibbons C, Robertson S, Suzuki M. Current Progress in the Creation, Characterization, and Application of Human Stem Cell-derived in Vitro Neuromuscular Junction Models. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2022; 18:768-780. [PMID: 34212303 PMCID: PMC8720113 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10201-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) such as embryonic stem cells (ESCs) or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are of great value for studying developmental processes, disease modeling, and drug testing. One area in which the use of human PSCs has become of great interest in recent years is for in vitro models of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). The NMJ is a synapse at which a motor neuron releases acetylcholine to bind to skeletal muscle and stimulate contraction. Degeneration of the NMJ and subsequent loss of muscle function is a common feature of many neuromuscular diseases such as myasthenia gravis, spinal muscular atrophy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In order to develop new therapies for patients with neuromuscular diseases, it is essential to understand mechanisms taking place at the NMJ. However, we have limited ability to study the NMJ in living human patients, and animal models are limited by physiological relevance. Therefore, an in vitro model of the NMJ consisting of human cells is of great value. The use of stem cells for in vitro NMJ models is still in progress and requires further optimization in order to yield reliable, reproducible results. The objective of this review is (1) to outline the current progress towards fully PSC-derived in vitro co-culture models of the human NMJ and (2) to discuss future directions and challenges that must be overcome in order to create reproducible fully PSC-derived models that can be used for developmental studies, disease modeling, and drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen Lynch
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Emma Peek
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Megan Reilly
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Claire FitzGibbons
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Samantha Robertson
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Masatoshi Suzuki
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, USA,Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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4
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Akan O, Polat EC, Çulha MG, Önol SD. The impact of myasthenia gravis on lower urinary tract functions. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14873. [PMID: 34525243 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To assess the functions of the lower urinary tract (LUT) in patients with myasthenia gravis (MG). MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 36 patients (18 males and 18 females) with MG and 29 healthy controls were enrolled. Participants completed a 3-day voiding diary and responded to questionnaires "Overactive Bladder Symptom Score" (OABSS) and "International Consultation on Incontinence-Short Form" (ICIQ-SF). All patients underwent uroflowmetry and ultrasonography (US). The data were compared based on the onset of disease and serological status. RESULTS The most common urinary symptoms were nocturia (80.5%), incontinence (61%) and urgency (47%). OABSS was higher in patients than controls (P = .008). Duration of urinary symptoms was longer, and nocturia was more common in late-onset MG (LOMG) than in early-onset MG (EOMG; P = .029, P = .023). The duration of disease and urinary symptoms statistically increased in ACh-Ab (-) group compared with ACh-Ab (+) group (P = .003, P = .027). Night-time urination frequency significantly increased while daytime voided volume (VV) decreased in LOMG compared with EOMG (P = .003 and P = .01). Residual volume on the US was significantly higher in LOMG than that in EOMG (P = .004). The duration of disease was positively correlated with tQmax and daytime urination frequency (P = .013, r = .48; P = .016, r = .398). A negative association was found between duration of disease and daytime VV (P = .04, r = -.344). CONCLUSION LUT dysfunction may manifest disease in MG, particularly in late-onset forms. The lack of ACh-Ab seemed to prolong the duration of disease and urinary disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onur Akan
- Department of Neurology, University of Health Sciences, Prof. Dr. Cemil Taşçıoğlu City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Emre Can Polat
- Department of Urology, University of Health Sciences, Prof. Dr. Cemil Taşçıoğlu City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Gökhan Çulha
- Department of Urology, University of Health Sciences, Prof. Dr. Cemil Taşçıoğlu City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Suzan Deniz Önol
- Department of Radiology, University of Health Sciences, Prof. Dr. Cemil Taşçıoğlu City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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Johnson S, Katyal N, Narula N, Govindarajan R. Adverse Side Effects Associated with Corticosteroid Therapy: A Study in 39 Patients with Generalized Myasthenia Gravis. Med Sci Monit 2021; 27:e933296. [PMID: 34707081 PMCID: PMC8562011 DOI: 10.12659/msm.933296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The tolerability of high-dose oral corticosteroids in patients with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) has not been systematically assessed. We evaluated adverse side effects (ASEs) of corticosteroid treatment in patients with gMG. Material/Methods Retrospective analysis was conducted of ASEs reported as being related to corticosteroid treatment in 39 patients with gMG who were treated with oral corticosteroids for ≥1 year. Results Median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 60 (21) years, 53.8% of patients were women, and 66.7% were aged ≤65 years. Median (IQR) prednisone treatment duration was 14 (2) months; median (IQR) daily dose was 40 (15) mg. The median number of ASEs reported as corticosteroid-related was 2/patient (IQR, 1). Pre-diabetes and weight gain were most common (each 43.6% of patients). Bruising, insomnia, and osteoporosis were more prevalent in patients aged >65 years, while irritability, osteopenia, and pre-diabetes were more common in patients aged ≤65 years, although differences were not statistically significant. Irritability and weight gain were more prevalent in women (P=0.010 for irritability); osteoporosis and pre-diabetes more common in men (P=0.015 for osteoporosis). ASEs were generally more common in the high-dose prednisone group (>30 mg/day), but were only statistically significant for irritability (P=0.001). Conclusions Corticosteroid-related ASEs were common in patients with gMG. Some of these ASEs can have serious medical consequences, and certain ASEs appeared to be associated with specific patient characteristics. Demographics and comorbidities of patients with gMG must be carefully considered before corticosteroid initiation. Potential ASEs, such as unanticipated osteoporosis in men, require extra vigilance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Johnson
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nakul Katyal
- Department of Neurology, University of Missouri Health Care, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Naureen Narula
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Northwell Health - Staten Island University Hospital, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Raghav Govindarajan
- Department of Neurology, University of Missouri Health Care, Columbia, MO, USA
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Chronic low-dose intravenous immunoglobulins as steroid-sparing therapy in myasthenia gravis. J Neurol 2021; 268:3871-3877. [PMID: 33829320 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10544-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) has been proven beneficial in myasthenic crisis, but their role as maintenance therapy is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine if maintenance therapy with low-dose IVIg improves clinical outcome and may be used as a steroid-sparing agent in myasthenia gravis (MG). METHODS We retrospectively reviewed charts of all MG patients treated with IVIg from January 2006 to December 2019. Long-term treatment response to IVIg was assessed by improvement in the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) clinical classification scale as primary end point, as well as the ability to reduce the time-weighted average required dose of prednisone as secondary end-point, in a follow-up period of 36 months. RESULTS 109 patients were treated with IVIg. The mean follow-up time was 34.03 ± 5.5 months. Sixty-seven patients (61.4%) responded to therapy with at least one-point improvement of the MGFA scale. There was no statistical difference in demographic and clinical characteristics between IVIg responders and non-responders. The mean prednisone dose decreased significantly from 33.1 ± 14.5 mg at baseline to 7.2 ± 7.8 mg after 36 months of IVIg treatment (P < 0.0001), with the greatest effect after 6 months (33.1 ± 14.5 mg Vs. 17.9 ± 11.7 mg; P < 0.0001). In the follow-up period of 36 months, most patients (92.5%) remained clinically and pharmacologically stable under chronic IVIg treatment. CONCLUSION This retrospective study demonstrates that chronic low-dose IVIg treatment in patients with MG improves clinical outcomes and has a prolonged and significant steroid-sparing effect over a period of 3 years.
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Bennani HN, Lagrange E, Noble J, Malvezzi P, Motte L, Chevallier E, Rostaing L, Jouve T. Treatment of refractory myasthenia gravis by double-filtration plasmapheresis and rituximab: A case series of nine patients and literature review. J Clin Apher 2020; 36:348-363. [PMID: 33349954 DOI: 10.1002/jca.21868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease mediated by circulating autoantibodies (anti-AchR, anti-MuSK, etc.). More than 20% of myasthenic patients are refractory to conventional treatments (plasma exchange, IVIg, steroids, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil). Rituximab (B-lymphocyte-depleting anti-CD20) and apheresis (double-filtration plasmapheresis [DFPP] and immunoadsorption [IA]) are interesting therapeutic alternatives. METHODS This monocentric pilot study included nine refractory myasthenic patients (March 2018 to May 2020) treated by DFPP and/or IA associated with rituximab (375 mg/m2 ). Clinical responses were assessed using the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) score. RESULTS Average age of patients was 53 ± 17 years. Gender ratio (M/F) was 3:6. The combination of apheresis and rituximab reduced median MGFA score from IV to II after 12 months of follow-up. Clinical improvement assessed by MGFA score was sustained in the long-term for all patients, during an average follow-up of 14 ± 9 months, allowing them to be self-sufficient and out sick-leave. The median number of apheresis sessions was 7 (5-30). The dose of prednisolone was reduced in two patients from 40 mg/d and 30 mg/d to 7.5 mg/d and 10 mg/d, respectively. It was stopped in a patient who was taking 30 mg/d. No infectious, bleeding, or thrombosis complications were noted. CONCLUSION The combination of rituximab and DFPP was effective to treat refractory MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza N Bennani
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Emmeline Lagrange
- Exploration Fonctionnelle du Système Nerveux instead of Service de Neurologie, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Johan Noble
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Paolo Malvezzi
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Lionel Motte
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Eloi Chevallier
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Lionel Rostaing
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, La Tronche, France
| | - Thomas Jouve
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, La Tronche, France
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8
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Blum TG, Misch D, Kollmeier J, Thiel S, Bauer TT. Autoimmune disorders and paraneoplastic syndromes in thymoma. J Thorac Dis 2020; 12:7571-7590. [PMID: 33447448 PMCID: PMC7797875 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-2019-thym-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Thymomas are counted among the rare tumour entities which are associated with autoimmune disorders (AIDs) and paraneoplastic syndromes (PNS) far more often than other malignancies. Through its complex immunological function in the context of the selection and maturation of T cells, the thymus is at the same time highly susceptible to disruptive factors caused by the development and growth of thymic tumours. These T cells, which are thought to develop to competent immune cells in the thymus, can instead adopt autoreactive behaviour due to the uncontrolled interplay of thymomas and become the trigger for AID or PNS affecting numerous organs and tissues within the human body. While myasthenia gravis is the most prevalent PNS in thymoma, numerous others have been described, be they related to neurological, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, haematological, dermatological, endocrine or systemic disorders. This review article sheds light on the pathophysiology, epidemiology, specific clinical features and therapeutic options of the various forms as well as courses and outcomes of AID/PNS in association with thymomas. Whenever suitable and backed by the limited available evidence, the perspectives from both the thymoma and the affected organ/tissue will be highlighted. Specific issues addressed are the prognostic significance of thymectomy on myasthenia gravis and other thymoma-associated AID/PND and further the impact and safety of immunotherapies on AID and PND relating to thymomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Gerriet Blum
- Department of Pneumology, Lungenklinik Heckeshorn, Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Misch
- Department of Pneumology, Lungenklinik Heckeshorn, Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens Kollmeier
- Department of Pneumology, Lungenklinik Heckeshorn, Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Thiel
- Department of Pneumology, Lungenklinik Heckeshorn, Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Berlin, Germany
| | - Torsten T Bauer
- Department of Pneumology, Lungenklinik Heckeshorn, Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Berlin, Germany
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Garcia-Garcia J, Díaz-Maroto I, Martínez-Martín A, Pardal-Fernández JM, Segura T. A series of patients with refractory myasthenia gravis. Neurologia 2020; 38:S0213-4853(20)30293-0. [PMID: 33172684 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2020.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advances in the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) have improved quality of life and prognosis for the majority of patients. However, 10%-20% of patients present refractory MG, with frequent relapses and significant functional limitations. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with refractory MG were selected from a cohort of patients diagnosed with MG between January 2008 and June 2019. Refractory MG was defined as lack of response to treatment with prednisone and at least 2 immunosuppressants, inability to withdraw treatment without relapse in the last 12 months, or intolerance to treatment with severe adverse reactions. RESULTS We identified 84 patients with MG, 11 of whom (13%) met criteria for refractory MG. Mean (standard deviation) age was 47 (18) years; 64% of patients with refractory MG had early-onset generalised myasthenia (as compared to 22% in the group of patients with MG; P<.01), with a higher proportion of women in this group (P<.01). Disease severity at diagnosis and at the time of data analysis was higher among patients with refractory MG, who presented more relapses during follow-up. Logistic regression analysis revealed an independent association between refractory MG and the number of severe relapses. CONCLUSIONS The percentage of patients with refractory MG in our series (13%) is similar to those reported in previous studies; these patients were often women and presented early onset, severe forms of onset, and repeated relapses requiring hospital admission during follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Garcia-Garcia
- Servicio de Neurología, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, Albacete, España.
| | - I Díaz-Maroto
- Servicio de Neurología, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, Albacete, España
| | - A Martínez-Martín
- Servicio de Neurología, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, Albacete, España
| | - J M Pardal-Fernández
- Servicio de Neurofisiología Clínica, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, Albacete, España
| | - T Segura
- Servicio de Neurología, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, Albacete, España
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10
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Anagnostouli M, Vakrakou AG, Zambelis T, Boufidou F, Nikolaou C, Karandreas N, Kilidireas C. Myasthenia gravis, atypical polyneuropathy and multiple autoimmune phenomena in the same patient, with HLA-immunogenetic profile expectable for Greek chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy: a case report. Int J Neurosci 2020; 132:593-600. [PMID: 32988257 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1829616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The comorbidity of myasthenia gravis (MG), with other autoimmune disorders like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is relatively frequent but the co-occurrence with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) along with various autoimmune manifestations in the absence of thymoma is of extreme rarity. Our aim is to report a case of a woman who presented the concomitant appearance of MG, axonal sensory-motor polyneuropathy and hepatitis that may indicate an underlying pathogenetic link among the different autoimmune disorders. MATERIALS AND METHODS/RESULTS We present a case of a 54-year-old woman, with a generalized MG and a chronic sensory-motor polyneuropathy, hypothyroidism, anaemia, hepatitis, livedo reticularis and facial flush, of assumed autoimmune background, like SLE, although with persistent negative ANA antibodies, from the beginning and through the whole following years. The Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-DRB1 genotyping showed a profile of alleles (DRB1*11:01/11:04) compatible with CIDP of mainly female gender in Greece and frequencies close to those of Sjogren's syndrome and scleroderma's in the Greek population. The diagnostic problems, the atypical clinical, electrophysiological and immunological features are discussed, along with the rarity of the case, with this exceptional combination of autoimmune manifestations, which could be truly associated under the clinical umbrella of a systemic disease, like SLE. However, our patient did not ever fulfil the SLE criteria. CONCLUSIONS To raise awareness among clinicians about the exceptional combination of autoimmune manifestations driven by a specific HLA background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Anagnostouli
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece.,Immunogenetics Laboratory, 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Aigli G Vakrakou
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Thomas Zambelis
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece.,Laboratory of Electrophysiology, 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Fotini Boufidou
- Department of Biopathology and Immunology, Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Chrysoula Nikolaou
- Department of Biopathology and Immunology, Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Karandreas
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece.,Laboratory of Electrophysiology, 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Constantinos Kilidireas
- 1st Department of Neurology, Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece.,Neuroimmunology Laboratory, 1st Department of Neurology of Medical School of Athens National and Kapodistrian University, NKUA, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Yang H, Liu D, Hong X, Sun H, Zheng Y, Yang B, Wang W. Effectiveness and safety of thymectomy plus prednisone compares with prednisone monotherapy for the treatment of non-thymomatous Myasthenia Gravis: Protocol for a systematic review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e20832. [PMID: 32569233 PMCID: PMC7310738 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000020832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathogenesis of myasthenia gravis (MG) has strong connection with thymic abnormalities. Thymic hyperplasia or thymoma can be found with most patients. Thymectomy is currently one of the regular treatment in clinic, which is, however, still controversial for non-thymomatous MG. This research will assess the effectiveness and safety of thymectomy plus prednisone compared to prednisone monotherapy for the treatment of non-thymomatous MG systematically. METHODS According to eligibility and ineligibility criteria, 8 databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, the Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wan-fang Database, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), China Science and Technology Journal Database (CSTJ), will be searched to gather the up-to-standard articles from September 2000 to September 2025. Inclusion criteria are as follows: randomized controlled trials of thymectomy plus prednisone for the treatment of non-thymomatous MG. The quantitative myasthenia gravis score (QMG) and the dose of prednisone required will be accepted as the main outcomes. Data synthesis, subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and meta-regression analysis will be conducted using RevMan 5.3 software. We will use Egger or Begg test to evaluate symmetry on a funnel plot which is made to assess reporting bias, and use trial sequential analysis (TSA) to exclude the probability of false positives. RESULTS This systematic review will measure the QMG and the dose of prednisone required, the myasthenia gravis activities of daily living scale scores (MG-ADL), treatment-associated complications, incidence of myasthenic crisis and other aspects to comprehensively assess the clinical benefits of thymectomy plus prednisone for MG patients without thymoma. CONCLUSION The conclusion of this study will achieve convincing evidence to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of thymectomy plus prednisone for the treatment of non-thymomatous MG. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD 42020167735.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huili Yang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine
- Department of Graduate School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine
| | - Dandan Liu
- Department of Graduate School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine
- General Hospital of Southern Theater Command of PLA, Guangzhou
| | - Xinxin Hong
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen
| | - Haonan Sun
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Yu Zheng
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine
| | - Biying Yang
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine
| | - Wanshun Wang
- Department of Graduate School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine
- General Hospital of Southern Theater Command of PLA, Guangzhou
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Wang L, Zhang L. Emerging Roles of Dysregulated MicroRNAs in Myasthenia Gravis. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:507. [PMID: 32508584 PMCID: PMC7253668 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare acquired autoimmune neuromuscular disease. Autoantibodies, cellular immunity, complement, and cytokines are involved in the pathogenesis of MG. It is characterized by the dysfunction of neuromuscular junction transmission and skeletal muscle weakness. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding small molecule ribonucleic acids that regulate various biological processes (e.g., development, differentiation, and immunity) at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels of gene expression. miRNAs play an important regulatory role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, including MG. In recent studies, the functional mechanisms underlying the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of MG have received increasing attention. miRNAs are highly stable and have high specificity in peripheral body fluids. Therefore, the miRNAs in body fluids may represent promising biomarkers for determining the prognosis of MG and the efficacy of treatment. This article reviews the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of MG, highlights the potential of miRNAs as new biomarkers for the diagnosis of MG, and deepens our understanding of disease processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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