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Jamali E, Shapoori S, Farrokhi MR, Vakili S, Rostamzadeh D, Iravanpour F, Tavakoli Oliaee R, Jafarinia M. Effect of Disease-Modifying Therapies on COVID-19 Vaccination Efficacy in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Comprehensive Review. Viral Immunol 2023; 36:368-377. [PMID: 37276047 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2023.0035] [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: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
According to current knowledge, the etiopathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) is complex, involving genetic background as well as several environmental factors that result in dysimmunity in the central nervous system (CNS). MS is an immune-mediated, inflammatory neurological disease affecting the CNS. As part of its attack on the axons of the CNS, MS witnesses varying degrees of myelin and axonal loss. A total of about 20 disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are available today that, both in clinical trials and in real-world studies, reduce disease activity, such as relapses, magnetic resonance imaging lesions, and disability accumulation. Currently, the world is facing an outbreak of the new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which originated in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, in December 2019 and spread rapidly around the globe. Viral infections play an important role in triggering and maintaining neuroinflammation through direct and indirect mechanisms. There is an old association between MS and viral infections. In the context of MS-related chronic inflammatory damage within the CNS, there has been concern regarding COVID-19 worsening neurological damage. A high rate of disability and increased susceptibility to infection have made MS patients particularly vulnerable. In addition, DMTs have been a concern during the pandemic since many DMTs have immunosuppressive properties. In this article, we discuss the impact of DMTs on COVID-19 risks and the effect of DMTs on COVID-19 vaccination efficacy and outcome in MS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Jamali
- Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences and Technology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Peyvand Pathobiology and Genetic Laboratory, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shima Shapoori
- Science Foundation Ireland (SFI), Center for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Majid Reza Farrokhi
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sina Vakili
- Infertility Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Davoud Rostamzadeh
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
- Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Farideh Iravanpour
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Razieh Tavakoli Oliaee
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Morteza Jafarinia
- Shiraz Neuroscience Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Liu N, Yu W, Sun M, Zhang W, Zhou D, Sun J, Wang M. Outcome of COVID-19 Infection in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis Who Received Disease-Modifying Therapies: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Neurol 2023:19.e26. [PMID: 36929061 DOI: 10.3988/jcn.2022.0348] [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: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed of the outcome of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) who received disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). METHODS Relevant studies published before November 2022 in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Web of Science databases were retrieved using the following search expression: ("multiple sclerosis" OR "MS") AND ("DMT" OR "disease modifying therapies") AND ("COVID-19"). Two authors independently screened the articles and extracted the data. Qualitative analyses and a meta-analysis constituted 22 of the 794 retrieved articles. Differences in the hospitalization and mortality rates were used as the main measures of efficacy, and the meta-analysis was performed using RevMan software. RESULTS 22 clinical trials were selected. The hospitalization rate was lower in the 3,216 patients who received DMTs than in the 774 patients who did not receive any treatment, with a moderate effect size of 0.43 (p<0.00001). The mortality rate was also lower among patients with MS treated using DMTs than in controls (odds ratio [OR]=0.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.13-0.27, p<0.00001). The hospitalization rates for COVID-19 infection in patients with MS treated with anti-CD20 therapy also increased markedly (OR=3.32, 95% CI=2.63-4.20, p<0.00001). However, there was no significant difference between patients with MS who did and did not receive DMTs. CONCLUSIONS In summary, the application of DMTs was found to be valuable for patients with MS infected with COVID-19. However, more clinical studies are needed to determine the use of anti-CD20 drugs in patients with MS during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Liu
- Department of Neurology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - WuHan Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Mengjiao Sun
- Department of Neurology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Dan Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of Neurology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - ManXia Wang
- Department of Neurology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, China.
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The impact of DAMP-mediated inflammation in severe COVID-19 and related disorders. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 195:114847. [PMID: 34801526 PMCID: PMC8600760 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The host response to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is highly heterogeneous, ranging from mild/asymptomatic to severe. The moderate to severe forms of COVID-19 often require hospitalization, are associated with a high rate of mortality, and appear to be caused by an inappropriately exaggerated inflammatory response to the virus. Emerging data confirm the involvement of both innate and adaptive immune pathways both in protection from SARS-CoV-2, and in driving the pathology of severe COVID-19. In particular, innate immune cells including neutrophils appear to be key players in the inflammation that causes the vicious cycle of damage and inflammation that underlies the symptomatology of severe COVID-19. Several recent studies support a link between damage and inflammation, with damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) playing a key role in the pathology of severe COVID-19. In this review, we put into perspective the role of DAMPs and of components of the DAMP-signaling cascade, including Siglecs and their cognate ligands CD24 and CD52, in COVID-19. Further, we review clinical data on proposed therapeutics targeting DAMP pathways to treat SARS-CoV-2 infection and the regulation of these signaling cascades in COVID-19. We also discuss the potential impact of DAMP-mediated inflammation in other indications related to COVID-19, such as ARDS, endothelial dysfunction, hypercoagulation, and sepsis.
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SARS-CoV2 infection as a potential trigger for severe relapse in a patient with multiple sclerosis who stopped disease modifying treatment due to COVID-19 pandemic. NEUROIMMUNOLOGY REPORTS 2021. [PMCID: PMC8285927 DOI: 10.1016/j.nerep.2021.100005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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SARS-CoV-2 infection after alemtuzumab in a multiple sclerosis patient: milder disease symptoms in comparison with coinfected relatives: a case report and review of the literature. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:4881-4884. [PMID: 34431013 PMCID: PMC8384460 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05567-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Literature data reporting SARS-CoV-2 infection in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients recently treated with immunodepleting agents as cladribine and alemtuzumab are very limited. The relationship between iatrogenic immunodeficiency and risk related to SARS-CoV-2 infection and its severe complications is still not clear. Cautiously, the start of immunosuppressant drugs as alemtuzumab and cladribine during the current COVID-19 pandemic is not recommended unless treatment benefits significantly outweigh potential risks. We report the case of a 30-year-old female MS patient infected by SARS-CoV-2 virus 4 months after alemtuzumab II cycle, while she was still leukopenic and lymphopenic. She had no complications and also presented milder COVID-related signs and symptoms as compared to her coinfected relatives (father, mother and her partner). Anti-S1 and S2 SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, tested 1 month and a half after the infection, resulted positive. We review all cases reported in literature of SARS-CoV-2 infection in MS patients treated with alemtuzumab. None of them had complications or severe disease.
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Reyes S, Cunningham AL, Kalincik T, Havrdová EK, Isobe N, Pakpoor J, Airas L, Bunyan RF, van der Walt A, Oh J, Mathews J, Mateen FJ, Giovannoni G. Update on the management of multiple sclerosis during the COVID-19 pandemic and post pandemic: An international consensus statement. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 357:577627. [PMID: 34139567 PMCID: PMC8183006 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In this consensus statement, we provide updated recommendations on multiple sclerosis (MS) management during the COVID-19 crisis and the post-pandemic period applicable to neurology services around the world. Statements/recommendations were generated based on available literature and the experience of 13 MS expert panelists using a modified Delphi approach online. The statements/recommendations give advice regarding implementation of telemedicine; use of disease-modifying therapies and management of MS relapses; management of people with MS at highest risk from COVID-19; management of radiological monitoring; use of remote pharmacovigilance; impact on MS research; implications for lowest income settings, and other key issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saúl Reyes
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia; School of Medicine, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Tomas Kalincik
- CORe, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Melbourne MS Centre, Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eva Kubala Havrdová
- Department of Neurology and Center for Clinical Neuroscience, General University Hospital and First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Noriko Isobe
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Julia Pakpoor
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Laura Airas
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Reem F Bunyan
- Department of Neurology, Neurosciences Center, King Fahd Specialist Hospital (KFSH)-Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anneke van der Walt
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jiwon Oh
- Division of Neurology, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joela Mathews
- Department of Pharmacy, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Farrah J Mateen
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gavin Giovannoni
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK.
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Buonomo AR, Viceconte G, Zappulo E, Maraolo AE, Russo CV, Carotenuto A, Moccia M, Gentile I. Update on infective complications in patients treated with alemtuzumab for multiple sclerosis: review and meta-analysis of real-world and randomized studies. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2021; 20:1237-1246. [PMID: 34310251 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2021.1942454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to systematically assess the pooled prevalence of infective complications in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and real-world studies (RWSs) investigating alemtuzumab treatment in multiple sclerosis (MS), also looking at selected infections and their severity. METHODS We included in the analysis RCTs and RWSs investigating the use of alemtuzumab in MS in which infective complications were reported, as well as case reports of rare infections. We conducted a meta-analysis of proportions and a random effect model meta-regression to investigate heterogeneity. RESULTS The pooled prevalence of infective complications in alemtuzumab treated MS patients is 24%. The most common reported infections are respiratory tract infections (47%) and the most part of the infections are mild-to-moderate (85%). Severe infections account for 6% of the total estimate. We found first-time-reported cases of invasive aspergillosis, hepatitis E virus infection, EBV hepatitis, and cerebral toxoplasmosis. The prevalence of infections is higher in studies conducted before 2009, and in studies with higher proportion of male participants. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians should be aware that the prevalence of serious infections during alemtuzumab can be higher than expected from RCTs. Peculiar opportunistic infections should be considered when evaluating a patient treated with alemtuzumab who develops signs of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Riccardo Buonomo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Giulio Viceconte
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Emanuela Zappulo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Alberto Enrico Maraolo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Cinzia Valeria Russo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonio Carotenuto
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Marcello Moccia
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Ivan Gentile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
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Cabreira V, Abreu P, Soares-dos-Reis R, Guimarães J, Sá MJ. Multiple Sclerosis, Disease-Modifying Therapies and COVID-19: A Systematic Review on Immune Response and Vaccination Recommendations. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:773. [PMID: 34358189 PMCID: PMC8310076 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9070773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the risks of COVID-19 in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) receiving disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and their immune reactions is vital to analyze vaccine response dynamics. A systematic review on COVID-19 course and outcomes in patients receiving different DMTs was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Emerging data on SARS-CoV-2 vaccines was used to elaborate recommendations. Data from 4417 patients suggest that MS per se do not portend a higher risk of severe COVID-19. As for the general population, advanced age, comorbidities, and higher disability significantly impact COVID-19 outcomes. Most DMTs have a negligible influence on COVID-19 incidence and outcome, while for those causing severe lymphopenia and hypogammaglobulinemia, such as anti-CD20 therapies, there might be a tendency of increased hospitalization, worse outcomes and a higher risk of re-infection. Blunted immune responses have been reported for many DMTs, with vaccination implications. Clinical evidence does not support an increased risk of MS relapse or vaccination failure, but vaccination timing needs to be individually tailored. For cladribine and alemtuzumab, it is recommended to wait 3-6 months after the last cycle until vaccination. For the general anti-CD20 therapies, vaccination must be deferred toward the end of the cycle and the next dose administered at least 4-6 weeks after completing vaccination. Serological status after vaccination is highly encouraged. Growing clinical evidence and continuous surveillance are extremely important to continue guiding future treatment strategies and vaccination protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Cabreira
- Serviço de Neurologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (P.A.); (R.S.-d.-R.); (J.G.); (M.J.S.)
- Departamento de Neurociências Clínicas e Saúde Mental, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Abreu
- Serviço de Neurologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (P.A.); (R.S.-d.-R.); (J.G.); (M.J.S.)
- Departamento de Neurociências Clínicas e Saúde Mental, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Soares-dos-Reis
- Serviço de Neurologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (P.A.); (R.S.-d.-R.); (J.G.); (M.J.S.)
- Departamento de Neurociências Clínicas e Saúde Mental, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação da Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Guimarães
- Serviço de Neurologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (P.A.); (R.S.-d.-R.); (J.G.); (M.J.S.)
- Departamento de Neurociências Clínicas e Saúde Mental, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria José Sá
- Serviço de Neurologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (P.A.); (R.S.-d.-R.); (J.G.); (M.J.S.)
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Fernando Pessoa, 4249-004 Porto, Portugal
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Kasarello K, Mirowska-Guzel D. Anti-CD52 Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis: An Update in the COVID Era. Immunotargets Ther 2021; 10:237-246. [PMID: 34268256 PMCID: PMC8273745 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s240890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
CD52 is a small surface glycoprotein composed of 12 amino acids. CD52 is found mostly on the surface of mature immune cells, such as lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and dendritic cells, as well as the male genital tract: within the epididymis and on the surface of mature sperm. Low CD52 expression is also found in neutrophils. CD52 function is not fully understood, although experiments with anti-CD52 antibodies have shown that CD52 is essential for lymphocyte transendothelial migration and may contribute to costimulation of CD4+ T cells and T-cell activation and proliferation. Although knowledge about exact CD52 function is still poor, CD52 presence on the surface of a broad spectrum of immune cells makes it a therapeutic target, especially in immunomediated diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. In multiple sclerosis, alemtuzumab is registered for adult patients with the relapsing-remitting form of the disease defined by clinical and imaging features. Despite the high efficacy of the drug, the main issue is its safety. The main adverse effects of alemtuzumab are associated with drug infusion due to cytokine release and cytotoxic effects of antibodies associated with lymphocyte depletion, which leads to immunosuppression, and secondary autoimmunity that may be the effect of excessive B-cell repopulation and cancer. This review presents current knowledge on the drug's mechanism of action, efficacy and safety data from clinical trials, and real-world observations, including available though scarce data on using alemtuzumab in the COVID era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaja Kasarello
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dagmara Mirowska-Guzel
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Second Department of Neurology, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
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Should Immunosuppressive Therapy Be Modified During a Pandemic? J Neuroophthalmol 2021; 41:266-271. [PMID: 33999890 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000001274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic impact on people with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS) continues to worry. The disease modifying therapies in pwMS can add a more severe risk of infection when compared to the general population. Alemtuzumab is an anti-CD52 monoclonal antibody and it is one of the most immunosuppressive drugs used in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). CASE DESCRIPTION We present a case of Covid-19 infection that occurred in a 24-year-old woman with MS and treated with alemtuzumab. The infection occurred 4 months after administration of the first course of alemtuzumab and had a benign course with subsequent development of antibodies. Furthermore, we present a brief review of the literature on similar published cases. DISCUSSION We reviewed 17 articles concerning COVID-19 infection in MS patients in treatment with Alemtuzumab. In our case and all screened cases no severe course of disease was noted and no fatality was observed. Systematic compilation of this observation comforts clinicians about the course of Covid-19 infection despite alemtuzumab immunosuppressive treatment CONCLUSIONS: The risk of serious COVID-19 disease in MS patients treated with alemtuzumab is unknown. Physicians need to monitor carefully pwMS treated with alemtuzumab and to consider COVID-19 infection related relapse in the MS patients. Further research is recommended to evaluate the beneficial-risk profile of alemtuzumab in pandemic era.
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12
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COVID-19 and disease-modifying therapies in patients with demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system: A systematic review. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 50:102800. [PMID: 33578206 PMCID: PMC7845520 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.102800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Introduction The Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to expand across the world. This pandemic has had a significant impact on patients with chronic diseases. Among patients with demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system (CNS), such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD), concerns remain about the potential impact of COVID-19 on these patients given their treatment with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory therapies. In this study, we review the existing literature investigating the impact of disease-modifying therapies(DMT) on COVID-19 risks in this group of patients. Method For this systematic review, we searched PubMed from January 1, 2020, to December 3, 2020. The following keywords were used: “COVID-19” AND “Multiple Sclerosis” OR “Neuromyelitis Optica.” Articles evaluating COVID-19 in patients with demyelinating diseases of CNS were included. This study evaluates the different aspects of the DMTs in these patients during the COVID-19 era. Results and conclusion A total of 262 articles were found. After eliminating duplicates and unrelated research papers, a total of 84 articles met the final inclusion criteria in our study. Overall, the experiences of 2493 MS patients and 37 NMOSD patients with COVID-19 were included in this review. Among them, 46(1.8%) MS patients died(the global death-to-case ratio of Covid-19 was reported about 2.1%). Among DMTs, Rituximab had the highest mortality rate (4%). Despite controversies, especially concerning anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapies, a relation between DMT-use and COVID-19 disease- course was not found in many studies. This observation reinforces the recommendation of not stopping current DMTs. Other variables such as age, higher expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scores, cardiac comorbidities, and obesity were independent risk factors for severe COVID-19. Despite the risks of infection, most patients were willing to continue their DMT during the pandemic because of more significant concern about the risk of relapse or worsening MS symptoms. After the infection, an immune response's attenuation was seen in the patients on Fingolimod and anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies. This may be a critical finding in future vaccinations.
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Eliseeva DD, Vasiliev AV, Abramova AA, Kochergin IA, Zakharova MN. [Monoclonal antibody therapies for rapidly progressive and highly active multiple sclerosis in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2021; 121:31-36. [PMID: 34387443 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202112107231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, reducing the risk of infection for immunocompromised patients remains an important issue. Patients with aggressive multiple sclerosis (MS) require immunosuppressive therapy in order to control the overactive autoimmune response. Preliminary international and national trials demonstrate that older age, higher disability status and progressive MS are generally associated with a more severe clinical course of COVID-19. However, uncertainty remains about the effect of disease-modifying therapies on the COVID-19 clinical presentation. In this article, we pay special attention to monoclonal antibodies used for immune reconstitution therapy, which results in significant changes to the T-cell and/or B-cell repertoire. Based on the published data from registries in different countries, we attempted to estimate the benefits and risks of these therapies in a complicated epidemiological setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A V Vasiliev
- «Neuroclinic» (Yusupov Hospital), Moscow, Russia
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14
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Experience in Multiple Sclerosis Patients with COVID-19 and Disease-Modifying Therapies: A Review of 873 Published Cases. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9124067. [PMID: 33339436 PMCID: PMC7766122 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9124067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic is a challenge for all participants in the healthcare system. At the beginning of the pandemic, many physicians asked themselves what risk their patients, especially those with chronic diseases, were exposed to. We present an overview of all patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and SARS-CoV-2 infection published in the literature so far. In total, there are publications on 873 SARS-CoV-2 positive MS patients and information on the outcome can be given for 700 patients. With regard to the different disease modifying therapies (DMTs), by far the most cases were described under anti-CD20 treatment (n = 317). The mortality rate of all MS patients was 4% and a further 3% required invasive or non-invasive ventilation. When looking at the severe and fatal cases, it is particularly noticeable that patients without DMTs, with previous cardiovascular diseases, or with a severe degree of disability are at risk. Immunosuppressive therapy itself does not appear to be a substantial risk factor. Rather, it is reasonable to assume that the therapies could be protective, either directly, by mitigating the cytokine storm, or indirectly, by reducing the disease activity of MS.
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15
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Zrzavy T, Wimmer I, Rommer PS, Berger T. Immunology of COVID-19 and disease-modifying therapies: The good, the bad and the unknown. Eur J Neurol 2020; 28:3503-3516. [PMID: 33090599 PMCID: PMC7675490 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Objective The outbreak of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic, caused by a previously unknown infectious agent, posed unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems and unmasked their vulnerability and limitations worldwide. Patients with long‐term immunomodulatory/suppressive therapies, as well as their physicians, were and are concerned about balancing the risk of infection and effects of disease‐modifying therapy. Over the last few months, knowledge regarding SARS‐CoV‐2 has been growing tremendously, and the first experiences of infections in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) have been reported. Methods This review summarizes the currently still limited knowledge about SARS‐CoV‐2 immunology and the commonly agreed modes of action of approved drugs in immune‐mediated diseases of the central nervous system (MS and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder). Specifically, we discuss whether immunosuppressive/immunomodulatory drugs may increase the risk of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and, conversely, may decrease the severity of a COVID‐19 disease course. Results At present, it can be recommended in general that none of those therapies with a definite indication needs to be stopped per se. A possibly increased risk of infection for most medications is accompanied by the possibility to reduce the severity of COVID‐19. Conclusions Despite the knowledge gain over the last few months, current evidence remains limited, and, thus, further clinical vigilance and systematic documentation is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Zrzavy
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Isabella Wimmer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paulus S Rommer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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16
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Viswanathan S. Management of Idiopathic CNS inflammatory diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic: Perspectives and strategies for continuity of care from a South East Asian Center with limited resources. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2020; 44:102353. [PMID: 32653804 PMCID: PMC7341969 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2020.102353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The Covid-19 pandemic poses a grave health management challenge globally of unprecedented nature. Management of idiopathic Central Nervous system inflammatory disorders (iCNSID) such as Multiple sclerosis, Neuromyelitis optica and its spectrum disorders and related conditions during this pandemic needs to be addressed with affirmative and sustainable strategies in order to prevent disease related risks, medication related complications and possible COVID-19 disease associated effects. Global international iCNSIDs agencies and recent publications are attempting to address this but such guidance is not available in South East Asia. Here we outline prospectively qualitatively and quantitatively novel strategies at a tertiary center in Malaysia catering for neuroimmunological disorders despite modest resources during this pandemic. In this retrospective study with longitudinal follow-up, we describe stratification of patients for face to face versus virtual visits in the absence of formal teleneurology, stratification of patients for treatment according to disease activity, rescheduling, deferring initiation or extending treatment intervals of certain disease modifying therapies(DMT's) or immunosuppressants(IS), especially those producing lymphocyte depletion in MS and the continuation of IS in patients with NMO/NMOSD. Furthermore, we highlight the use off-label treatments such as Intravenous immunoglobulins/rituximab,bridging interferons/Teriflunomide temporarily replacing more potent DMT choices,supply challenges of IS/DMT's and tailoring blood watches and neuroimaging surveillance based on the current health needs to stave off the pandemic and prevent at risk patients with iCNSID/health care workers from possibly being exposed to the COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Viswanathan
- Department of Neurology, Kuala Lumpur Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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17
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Kothari A, Singh V, Nath UK, Kumar S, Rai V, Kaushal K, Omar BJ, Pandey A, Jain N. Immune Dysfunction and Multiple Treatment Modalities for the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: Races of Uncontrolled Running Sweat? BIOLOGY 2020; 9:E243. [PMID: 32846906 PMCID: PMC7563789 DOI: 10.3390/biology9090243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused a global pandemic threat with more than 11.8 million confirmed cases and more than 0.5 million deaths as of 3 July 2020. Given the lack of definitive pharmaceutical interventions against SARS-CoV-2, multiple therapeutic strategies and personal protective applications are being used to reduce the risk of high mortality and community spread of this infection. Currently, more than a hundred vaccines and/or alternative therapeutic regimens are in clinical trials, and some of them have shown promising results in improving the immune cell environment and controlling the infection. In this review, we discussed high-performance multi-directory strategies describing the uncontrolled deregulation of the host immune landscape associated with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and treatment strategies using an anti-neoplastic regimen. We also followed selected current treatment plans and the most important on-going clinical trials and their respective outcomes for blocking SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis through regenerative medicine, such as stem cell therapy, chimeric antigen receptors, natural killer (NK) cells, extracellular vesicular-based therapy, and others including immunomodulatory regimens, anti-neoplastic therapy, and current clinical vaccine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Kothari
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh 249203, India; (A.K.); (V.S.)
| | - Vanya Singh
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh 249203, India; (A.K.); (V.S.)
| | - Uttam Kumar Nath
- Department of Medical Oncology & Hematology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh 249203, India;
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA;
| | - Vineeta Rai
- Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
| | - Karanvir Kaushal
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh 249203, India;
| | - Balram Ji Omar
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh 249203, India; (A.K.); (V.S.)
| | - Atul Pandey
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior, The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Neeraj Jain
- Department of Medical Oncology & Hematology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh 249203, India;
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18
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Torre‐Fuentes L, Matías‐Guiu J, Hernández‐Lorenzo L, Montero‐Escribano P, Pytel V, Porta‐Etessam J, Gómez‐Pinedo U, Matías‐Guiu JA. ACE2, TMPRSS2, and Furin variants and SARS-CoV-2 infection in Madrid, Spain. J Med Virol 2020; 93:863-869. [PMID: 32691890 PMCID: PMC7404937 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.26319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that some individuals may present genetic susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection, with particular research interest in variants of the ACE2 and TMPRSS2 genes, involved in viral penetration into cells, in different populations and geographic regions, although insufficient information is currently available. This study addresses the apparently reasonable hypothesis that variants of these genes may modulate viral infectivity, making some individuals more vulnerable than others. Through whole-exome sequencing, the frequency of exonic variants of the ACE2, TMPRSS2, and Furin genes was analyzed in relation to presence or absence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in a familial multiple sclerosis cohort including 120 individuals from Madrid. The ACE2 gene showed a low level of polymorphism, and none variant was significantly associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. These variants have previously been detected in Italy. While TMPRSS2 is highly polymorphic, the variants found do not coincide with those described in other studies, with the exception of rs75603675, which may be associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The synonymous variants rs61735792 and rs61735794 showed a significant association with infection. Despite the limited number of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, some variants, especially in TMPRSS2, may be associated with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Torre‐Fuentes
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Jorge Matías‐Guiu
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Laura Hernández‐Lorenzo
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Paloma Montero‐Escribano
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Vanesa Pytel
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Jesús Porta‐Etessam
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Ulises Gómez‐Pinedo
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
| | - Jordi A. Matías‐Guiu
- Department of Neurology, Instituto de Neurociencias IdISSCHospital Clínico San CarlosMadridSpain
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19
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Fernández-Díaz E, Gracia-Gil J, García-García JG, Palao M, Romero-Sánchez CM, Segura T. COVID-19 and multiple sclerosis: A description of two cases on alemtuzumab. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2020; 45:102402. [PMID: 32711297 PMCID: PMC7366111 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2020.102402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Alemtuzumab is a treatment for highly active multiple sclerosis (MS). Immunosuppression is considered a risk factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection and there is still lack of evidence to guide MS practice. Methods/results We describe the clinical and immunological evolution of two MS patients under alemtuzumab treatment who were affected by COVID-19, one of them only one week after receiving her last dose, and both recovered without sequelae. Conclusion In selected patients (young, without comorbidities, and with high activity), MS itself could be more dangerous than COVID-19, so we should consider continuing MS treatment as previously planned, including alemtuzumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Fernández-Díaz
- Neurology Department, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, Hermanos Falcó 37, Albacete, Castilla-La Mancha 02006, Spain.
| | - Julia Gracia-Gil
- Neurology Department, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, Hermanos Falcó 37, Albacete, Castilla-La Mancha 02006, Spain
| | | | - María Palao
- Neurology Department, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, Hermanos Falcó 37, Albacete, Castilla-La Mancha 02006, Spain
| | - Carlos M Romero-Sánchez
- Neurology Department, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, Hermanos Falcó 37, Albacete, Castilla-La Mancha 02006, Spain
| | - Tomás Segura
- Professor of Neurology (Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha), Chair of Neurology Department, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
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20
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Gomez-Mayordomo V, Montero-Escribano P, Matías-Guiu JA, González-García N, Porta-Etessam J, Matías-Guiu J. Clinical exacerbation of SARS-CoV2 infection after fingolimod withdrawal. J Med Virol 2020; 93:546-549. [PMID: 32644205 PMCID: PMC7361541 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.26279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The role of disease‐modifying therapies in patients with autoimmune disorders during severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV2) infection is controversial. Immunocompromised patients could have a more severe coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) due to the absence of an adequate immune response against the SARS‐CoV‐2. However, therapies that act on immune response could play a protective role by dampening the cytokine‐release syndrome. Fingolimod is a drug used for immune therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) through the sequestration of activated lymphocytes in the lymph nodes. We report the case of a 57‐year‐old man with relapsing‐remitting MS treated with fingolimod that showed a reactivation of COVID‐19 with signs of hyperinflammation syndrome after fingolimod withdrawal. Our case suggests that discontinuation of fingolimod during COVID‐19 could imply a worsening of SARS‐CoV2 infection. We report a patient with Multiple Sclerosis presenting COVID‐19 when treated with fingolimod. Hyperinflammation syndrome was observed after fingolimod withdrawal. Discontinuation of fingolimod during COVID‐19 could imply a worsening of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Gomez-Mayordomo
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurosciences, San Carlos Health Research Institute (IdISSC), Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Montero-Escribano
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurosciences, San Carlos Health Research Institute (IdISSC), Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi A Matías-Guiu
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurosciences, San Carlos Health Research Institute (IdISSC), Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria González-García
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurosciences, San Carlos Health Research Institute (IdISSC), Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Porta-Etessam
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurosciences, San Carlos Health Research Institute (IdISSC), Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Matías-Guiu
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurosciences, San Carlos Health Research Institute (IdISSC), Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
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21
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Zheng C, Kar I, Chen CK, Sau C, Woodson S, Serra A, Abboud H. Multiple Sclerosis Disease-Modifying Therapy and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications on the Risk of Infection and Future Vaccination. CNS Drugs 2020; 34:879-896. [PMID: 32780300 PMCID: PMC7417850 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-020-00756-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is expected to linger. Decisions regarding initiation or continuation of disease-modifying therapy for multiple sclerosis have to consider the potential relevance to the pandemic. Understanding the mechanism of action and the possible idiosyncratic effects of each therapeutic agent on the immune system is imperative during this special time. The infectious side-effect profile as well as the route and frequency of administration of each therapeutic agent should be carefully considered when selecting a new treatment or deciding on risk mitigation strategies for existing therapy. More importantly, the impact of each agent on the future severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type-2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine should be carefully considered in treatment decisions. Moreover, some multiple sclerosis therapies may have beneficial antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2 while others may have beneficial immune-modulating effects against the cytokine storm and hyperinflammatory phase of the disease. Conventional injectables have a favorable immune profile without an increased exposure risk and therefore may be suitable for mild multiple sclerosis during the pandemic. However, moderate and highly active multiple sclerosis will continue to require treatment with oral or intravenous high-potency agents but a number of risk mitigation strategies may have to be implemented. Immune-modulating therapies such as the fumerates, sphinogosine-1P modulators, and natalizumab may be anecdotally preferred over cell-depleting immunosuppressants during the pandemic from the immune profile standpoint. Within the cell-depleting agents, selective (ocrelizumab) or preferential (cladribine) depletion of B cells may be relatively safer than non-selective depletion of lymphocytes and innate immune cells (alemtuzumab). Patients who develop severe iatrogenic or idiosyncratic lymphopenia should be advised to maintain social distancing even in areas where lockdown has been removed or ameliorated. Patients with iatrogenic hypogammaglobulinemia may require prophylactic intravenous immunoglobulin therapy in certain situations. When the future SARS-CoV-2 vaccine becomes available, patients with multiple sclerosis should be advised that certain therapies may interfere with mounting a protective immune response to the vaccine and that serological confirmation of a response may be required after vaccination. They should also be aware that most multiple sclerosis therapies are incompatible with live vaccines if a live SARS-CoV-2 vaccine is developed. In this article, we review and compare disease-modifying therapies in terms of their effect on the immune system, published infection rates, potential impact on SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility, and vaccine-related implications. We propose risk mitigation strategies and practical approaches to disease-modifying therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal Zheng
- Raabe College of Pharmacy, Ohio Northern University, Ada, OH USA
| | - Indrani Kar
- System Pharmacy Services, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Claire Kaori Chen
- Specialty Pharmacy, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Crystal Sau
- Specialty Pharmacy, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, OH USA ,Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Program, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland Medical Center, Bolwell, 5th Floor, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
| | - Sophia Woodson
- Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Program, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland Medical Center, Bolwell, 5th Floor, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
| | - Alessandro Serra
- Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Program, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland Medical Center, Bolwell, 5th Floor, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA ,VA Multiple Sclerosis Center of Excellence, Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Hesham Abboud
- Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Program, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland Medical Center, Bolwell, 5th Floor, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
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