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Gilhus NE, Andersen H, Andersen LK, Boldingh M, Laakso S, Leopoldsdottir MO, Madsen S, Piehl F, Popperud TH, Punga AR, Schirakow L, Vissing J. Generalized myasthenia gravis with acetylcholine receptor antibodies: A guidance for treatment. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16229. [PMID: 38321574 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Generalized myasthenia gravis (MG) with antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor is a chronic disease causing muscle weakness. Access to novel treatments warrants authoritative treatment recommendations. The Nordic countries have similar, comprehensive health systems, mandatory health registers, and extensive MG research. METHODS MG experts and patient representatives from the five Nordic countries formed a working group to prepare treatment guidance for MG based on a systematic literature search and consensus meetings. RESULTS Pyridostigmine represents the first-line symptomatic treatment, while ambenonium and beta adrenergic agonists are second-line options. Early thymectomy should be undertaken if a thymoma, and in non-thymoma patients up to the age of 50-65 years if not obtaining remission on symptomatic treatment. Most patients need immunosuppressive drug treatment. Combining corticosteroids at the lowest possible dose with azathioprine is recommended, rituximab being an alternative first-line option. Mycophenolate, methotrexate, and tacrolimus represent second-line immunosuppression. Plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin are used for myasthenic crises and acute exacerbations. Novel complement inhibitors and FcRn blockers are effective and fast-acting treatments with promising safety profiles. Their use depends on local availability, refunding policies, and cost-benefit analyses. Adapted physical training is recommended. Planning of pregnancies with optimal treatment, information, and awareness of neonatal MG is necessary. Social support and adaptation of work and daily life activities are recommended. CONCLUSIONS Successful treatment of MG rests on timely combination of different interventions. Due to spontaneous disease fluctuations, comorbidities, and changes in life conditions, regular long-term specialized follow-up is needed. Most patients do reasonably well but there is room for further improvement. Novel treatments are promising, though subject to restricted access due to costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Henning Andersen
- Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Linda Kahr Andersen
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marion Boldingh
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sini Laakso
- Department of Neurology, Brain Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Translational Immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Sidsel Madsen
- The National Rehabilitation Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Fredrik Piehl
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - John Vissing
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Zhou A, Ho S, Vickers A. Eculizumab in myasthenia gravis: A review. Saudi J Ophthalmol 2024; 38:34-40. [PMID: 38628404 PMCID: PMC11016999 DOI: 10.4103/sjopt.sjopt_74_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody against complement C5, is a novel therapy to treat refractory myasthenia gravis (MG). The present review was undertaken to study the role of eculizumab in MG. This includes the drug's mechanism, pharmacokinetics, clinical trial findings, tolerability, side effects, safety, dosage, administration, and cost. An English-language search for relevant items was undertaken using Embase and PubMed from 1946 to present. Clinical trial registries/databases and websites were also searched for relevant data. Keywords were eculizumab and MG. The present review found 103 articles after initial screening. Current data support eculizumab as an effective, safe, and tolerable drug in cases of refractory MG. However, its cost can prevent it from being widely accessible to a majority of the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avery Zhou
- Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Sabrina Ho
- Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Aroucha Vickers
- Department of Neurology, Valley Hospital Medical Center, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- Department of Neuro-Ophthalmology, Las Vegas Neurology Center, Las Vegas, NV, USA
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Fuse K, Araki A, Morozumi S, Yasui K, Kazuta T, Noda S, Katsuno M. [A case of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive ocular myasthenia gravis with anti-titin antibody and anti-Kv1.4 antibody positive inflammatory myopathy]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2023; 63:830-835. [PMID: 37989286 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.cn-001908] [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: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
An 84-year-old man was diagnosed with anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody-positive ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) at the age of 77 and received treatment. The patient was referred to our department with swelling and pain in his right upper arm, which had spread to other limbs. His serum anti-AChR antibody and creatine kinase levels were elevated, and MRI of the limbs displayed signal changes suggesting inflammation in the several muscles. Despite showing no sign of thymoma, he was positive for serum anti-titin and anti-Kv1.4 antibodies. We performed a muscle biopsy, which led to a diagnosis of inflammatory myopathy (IM). IM associated with OMG is relatively mild. Age-related immune dysregulation may cause both OMG and IM. Evaluation of disease activity with serum anti-AChR antibody levels, and assessment of prognosis with examining anti-striational antibodies are necessary for appropriate management of IM associated with MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenshiro Fuse
- Department of Neurology, Japanese Red Cross Aichi Medical Center Nagoya Daini Hospital
| | - Amane Araki
- Department of Neurology, Japanese Red Cross Aichi Medical Center Nagoya Daini Hospital
| | - Saori Morozumi
- Department of Neurology, Japanese Red Cross Aichi Medical Center Nagoya Daini Hospital
| | - Keizo Yasui
- Department of Neurology, Japanese Red Cross Aichi Medical Center Nagoya Daini Hospital
| | - Tomoyuki Kazuta
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine
- Department of Neurology, Chutoen General Medical Center
| | - Seiya Noda
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine
- Department of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Suzuka Hospital
| | - Masahisa Katsuno
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine
- Department of Clinical Research Education, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine
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Maher DI, Hogarty D, Ben Artsi E. Acute onset ocular myasthenia gravis after vaccination with the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Orbit 2023; 42:630-634. [PMID: 35499172 DOI: 10.1080/01676830.2022.2062777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease that results in muscle weakness and fatigability. Extraocular involvement may be the first sign of disease. It may be triggered by infections, stress, or medications. We describe a first reported case of ocular MG induced by the viral vector Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine, detail the pathophysiology of vaccine-induced MG, and explore the impact of COVID-19 on MG patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic I Maher
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria,Australia
| | - Daniel Hogarty
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria,Australia
| | - Elad Ben Artsi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria,Australia
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Chen X, Qiu J, Gao Z, Liu B, Zhang C, Yu W, Yang J, Shen Y, Qi L, Yao X, Sun H, Yang X. Myasthenia gravis: Molecular mechanisms and promising therapeutic strategies. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 218:115872. [PMID: 37865142 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115872] [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] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a type of autoimmune disease caused by the blockage of neuromuscular junction transmission owing to the attack of autoantibodies on transmission-related proteins. Related antibodies, such as anti-AChR, anti-MuSK and anti-LRP4 antibodies, can be detected in most patients with MG. Although traditional therapies can control most symptoms, several challenges remain to be addressed, necessitating the development of more effective and safe treatment strategies for MG. With the in-depth exploration on the mechanism and immune targets of MG, effective therapies, especially therapies using biologicals, have been reported recently. Given the important roles of immune cells, cytokines and intercellular interactions in the pathological process of MG, B-cell targeted therapy, T-cell targeted therapy, proteasome inhibitors targeting plasma cell, complement inhibitors, FcRn inhibitors have been developed for the treatment of MG. Although these novel therapies exert good therapeutic effects, they may weaken the immunity and increase the risk of infection in MG patients. This review elaborates on the pathogenesis of MG and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the strategies of traditional treatment and biologicals. In addition, this review emphasises that combined therapy may have better therapeutic effects and reducing the risk of side effects of treatments, which has great prospects for the treatment of MG. With the deepening of research on immunotherapy targets in MG, novel opportunities and challenges in the treatment of MG will be introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China
| | - Jiayi Qiu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China
| | - Zihui Gao
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China
| | - Boya Liu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China
| | - Chen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China
| | - Weiran Yu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China
| | - Jiawen Yang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Medical College, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China
| | - Yuntian Shen
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China
| | - Lei Qi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China
| | - Xinlei Yao
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China.
| | - Hualin Sun
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China.
| | - Xiaoming Yang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, PR China.
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Çelebisoy N, Orujov A, Balayeva F, Özdemir HN, Ak AK, Gökçay F. Prognostic predictors of remission in ocular myasthenia gravis. Acta Neurol Belg 2023; 123:1927-1932. [PMID: 36474006 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-022-02151-4] [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] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) constitutes 15% of all myasthenia gravis patients. METHODS One hundred eight patients with OMG followed-up for over 36 months were retrospectively evaluated regarding factors associated with remission. Demographic features, neuro-ophthalmologic findings at onset, acetylcholine receptor (AChR Ab) and muscle-specifc tyrosine kinase antibodies (MuSK Ab), thymic status, single fiber electromyography (SFEMG) results were the variables considered. RESULTS Median age of disease onset was 57 years (range 18-82 years). Clinical features at onset was isolated ptosis in 55 (50.9%) and isolated diplopia in 33 (30.6%) patients. Combined ptosis and diplopia were present in 20 (18.5%) patients. Among 75 patients with ptosis, it was unilateral in 65 (86.7%) and bilateral in 10 (13.3%). AChR Abs were found in 66 (61.1%) and MuSK Abs in 2 (1.9%) patients. SFEMG abnormality was detected in 74 (68.5%) patients. Thymoma was present in 16 (14.8%) and thymic hyperplasia in 6 (5.6%) patients. Forty-one patients (37.9%) had been treated with pyridostigmine alone. Sixty-seven (62%) patients were given immunosupressive drugs. In 53 (49.1%) prednisone was used and in 14 (12.9%) patients it was combined with azathioprine. Thymectomy was performed in all 16 patients with thymoma. Complete stable remission (CSR) was achieved in 49 (45.4%) patients. Fifty-nine (54.6%) patients had reached minimal manifestation (MM) status; 32 (29.6%) having a status of MM-1 and 27 (25%) a status of MM-3. CONCLUSIONS The presence of AchR Abs (p = 0.034) and an abnormal SFEMG (p = 0.006) at onset as increased risk factors for the presence of ongoing signs necessitating medical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neşe Çelebisoy
- Department of Neurology, Ege University Medical School, 35100, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Asim Orujov
- Department of Neurology, Ege University Medical School, 35100, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Fidan Balayeva
- Department of Neurology, Ege University Medical School, 35100, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Ayşın Kısabay Ak
- Department of Neurology, Celal Bayar University Medical School, 45000, Manisa, Turkey.
| | - Figen Gökçay
- Department of Neurology, Ege University Medical School, 35100, Izmir, Turkey
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Gosain D, Das T. Myasthenia Gravis Presenting as Bulbar Palsy. Cureus 2023; 15:e46082. [PMID: 37900462 PMCID: PMC10611170 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis is a rare autoimmune condition that affects postsynaptic cholinergic receptors, resulting in symptoms of muscular fatigue. Clinical signs could be subtle and variable, often leading to many differentials. This leads to inappropriate tests being performed and a delay in diagnosis. Although ocular signs are more common, it may rarely present as bulbar palsy. Our patient, in her 30s, was referred to the emergency department after six months of symptom onset when she was discovered to be at a high risk of silent aspiration. Her presentation was predominantly bulbar palsy, but after appropriate tests, she was eventually diagnosed with generalized myasthenia gravis with a concurrent thymoma. Her treatment included pyridostigmine, corticosteroid, and immunoglobulins, while a thymectomy was scheduled as a planned procedure. Prompt diagnosis and timely management can reduce morbidity and mortality in such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhruv Gosain
- General Internal Medicine, Peterborough City Hospital, Peterborough, GBR
| | - Tapas Das
- Gastroenterology, Peterborough City Hospital, Peterborough, GBR
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García Estévez DA, Pardo Fernández J. Myasthenia gravis. Update on diagnosis and therapy. Med Clin (Barc) 2023:S0025-7753(23)00218-X. [PMID: 37248131 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2023.04.006] [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: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease caused by the presence of specific antibodies targeting different postsynaptic components of the neuromuscular junction, and is clinically characterized by the presence of fatigueable muscle weakness. In the etiopathogenesis plays a central role the thymus and the most frequently detected pathogenic autoantibodies are targeted to the acetylcholine receptor. The increase in the knowledge of the immunological components of the neuromuscular junction in the last two decades has been fundamental to identify new pathogenic antibodies, reduce the percentage of patients with seronegative myasthenia, and propose a classification of patients into subgroups with clinical-therapeutic interest. In addition, in recent years, new drugs have been developed for the treatment of patients with myasthenia gravis that are refractory to conventional immunosuppressive treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Apolinar García Estévez
- Servicio de Neurología, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Ourense, Ourense, España; Grupo de investigación Neurociencias Clínicas, Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias Galicia-Sur, SERGAS-UVIGO, Vigo, Pontevedra, España.
| | - Julio Pardo Fernández
- Unidad de Enfermedades Neuromusculares, Servicio de Neurología, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela. Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, España
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Bi Z, Cao Y, Gui M, Lin J, Zhang Q, Li Y, Ji S, Bu B. Dynamic nomogram for predicting generalized conversion in adult-onset ocular myasthenia gravis. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:1383-1391. [PMID: 36469201 PMCID: PMC10023757 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06519-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the factors and risk mapping model of progression from ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) to generalized myasthenia gravis (GMG) in adult-onset patients. METHODS A retrospective, observational cohort study was performed for 435 OMG patients with onset age older than 14 years old. Multivariate Cox regression was used to identify the independent factors affecting generalized conversions that then were incorporated into the construction of the nomogram. RESULTS Two hundred thirty-seven patients (54.5%) had transformed into GMG after a median of 1.1 years (range 0.1--9.1 years). The 6-, 12-, and 24-month generalized conversion rates were 31.7%, 49.8%, and 65.4%, respectively. Multivariable analysis showed that the early-onset age, male sex, concomitant autoimmune diseases (AID), positive results of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies, repetitive nerve stimulation abnormalities, the presence of thymoma, and prednisone treatment were significantly associated with the generalized conversions (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.598, 0.686, 1.554, 1.541, 2.020, 2.510, and 0.556, respectively). A nomogram was established to predict the possibility of generalization-free survival (GFS) in adult-onset OMG patients, and the model demonstrated good predictive performance with a C-index of 0.736 (95% confidence interval 0.703 ~ 0.769). Moreover, subgroup analyses were performed based on the presence or absence of prednisone therapy, and the results indicated that prednisone therapy has better prevention of generalized conversions in male, non-thymoma patients, and patients without other AID. CONCLUSION A new predictive nomograph and web-based survival calculator we developed show favorable applicability and accuracy in predicting long-term GFS in adult-onset OMG patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuajin Bi
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yayun Cao
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Department of Radiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Mengcui Gui
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Suqiong Ji
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Bitao Bu
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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Kapoor B, Gulati M, Gupta R, Singla RK. Microbiota dysbiosis and myasthenia gravis: Do all roads lead to Rome? Autoimmun Rev 2023; 22:103313. [PMID: 36918089 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulated immune system with a failure to recognize self from non-self-antigens is one of the common pathogeneses seen in autoimmune diseases. The complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors is important for the occurrence and development of the disease. Among the environmental factors, disturbed gut microbiota (gut dysbiosis) has recently attracted particular attention, especially with advancement in human microbiome research. Although the alterations in microbiota have been seen in various autoimmune diseases, including those of nervous system, there is paucity of information on neuromuscular system diseases. Myasthenia gravis (MG) is one such rare autoimmune disease of neuromuscular junction, and is caused by generation of pathogenic autoantibodies to components of the postsynaptic muscle endplate. In the recent years, accumulating evidences have endorsed the key role of host microbiota, particularly those of gut, in the pathogenesis of MG. Differential microbiota composition, characterized by increased abundance of Fusobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Proteobacteria, and decreased abundance of Actinobacteria and Firmicutes, has been seen in MG patients in comparison to healthy subjects. Disturbance of microbiota composition, particularly reduced ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes, alter the gut permeability, subsequently triggering the immunological response. Resultant reduction in levels of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) is another factor contributing to the immunological response in MG patients. Modulation of gut microbiota via intervention of probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics (metabiotics), and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is considered to be the futuristic approach for the management of MG. This review summarizes the role of gut microbiota and their metabolites (postbiotics) in the progression of MG. Also, various bacteriotherapeutic approaches involving gut microbiota are discussed for the prevention of MG progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhupinder Kapoor
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India.
| | - Monica Gulati
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia.
| | - Reena Gupta
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Rajeev K Singla
- Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Xinchuan Road, 2222, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; iGlobal Research and Publishing Foundation, New Delhi, India
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Vanoli F, Mantegazza R. Ravulizumab for the treatment of myasthenia gravis. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2023; 23:235-241. [PMID: 36852670 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2023.2185131] [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: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neurological B-cell mediated autoimmune disorder affecting the neuromuscular junction. MG therapeutics have always relied on nonselective immunosuppression with oral steroids and non-steroidal immunosuppressants, mainly with good clinical response. However, clinical stabilization is often reached at the cost of many troublesome side effects and up to 15% of MG patients are deemed as refractory to conventional immunosuppression. This highlights the need of a more targeted and efficacious therapeutic approach. Results from the randomized-controlled period of the CHAMPION study demonstrate a good safety, tolerability, and efficacy profile of ravulizumab compared to placebo. Like eculizumab, ravulizumab is an anti-C5 monoclonal antibody, but with an enhanced pharmacokinetic profile, that allows dosing every 8 weeks. AREAS COVERED We provide an overview of ravulizumab biological features and results from the phase III CHAMPION MG (NCT03920293) study. EXPERT OPINION Data of the CHAMPION MG trial demonstrate that ravulizumab is effective and safe in the treatment of generalized MG. Having a rapid clinical effect, with long-term clinical response, ravulizumab could represent a selective immunosuppressive drug of choice in the future therapeutic algorithm of MG, where conventional immunosuppressants slowly leave room for newer drugs with a more targeted mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiammetta Vanoli
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disease Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy.,Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Disease Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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Uzawa A, Suzuki S, Kuwabara S, Akamine H, Onishi Y, Yasuda M, Ozawa Y, Kawaguchi N, Kubota T, Takahashi MP, Suzuki Y, Watanabe G, Kimura T, Sugimoto T, Samukawa M, Minami N, Masuda M, Konno S, Nagane Y, Utsugisawa K. Impact of Early Treatment with Intravenous High-Dose Methylprednisolone for Ocular Myasthenia Gravis. Neurotherapeutics 2023; 20:518-523. [PMID: 36607596 PMCID: PMC10121971 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01335-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of intravenous high-dose methylprednisolone (IVMP) in ocular myasthenia gravis (MG) has not been fully established. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of early intervention with IVMP for achieving the therapeutic targets (minimal manifestations [MM] or MM or better status with prednisolone ≤ 5 mg/day [MM5mg]) in ocular MG. In this observational study, we included a total of 1710 consecutive patients with MG enrolled in the Japan MG Registry in 2021. Of these, 204 patients with ocular MG who received immunotherapy were analyzed. The clinical course and time to first achieve MM or MM5mg after starting immunotherapy were compared between the early IVMP group (treated with IVMP within 3 months of treatment initiation) and the non-early IVMP group. Despite having greater clinical severity before immunotherapy and lower oral prednisolone doses throughout the course, the early IVMP group (n = 55) showed a higher rate of achievement of MM (P = 0.0040, log-rank test; hazard ratio 1.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13-2.20, P < 0.0001) and MM5mg (P = 0.0005, log-rank test; hazard ratio 1.78, 95% CI 1.27-2.51, P < 0.0001) compared with the non-early IVMP group (n = 149). In conclusion, an early intervention with IVMP is likely to increase the probability of achieving a better long-term outcome and reducing the total dose of corticosteroids in ocular MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiyuki Uzawa
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1, Inohana, Chuo-Ku, Chiba-Shi, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
| | - Shigeaki Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kuwabara
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1, Inohana, Chuo-Ku, Chiba-Shi, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Akamine
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1, Inohana, Chuo-Ku, Chiba-Shi, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Yosuke Onishi
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1, Inohana, Chuo-Ku, Chiba-Shi, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Manato Yasuda
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1, Inohana, Chuo-Ku, Chiba-Shi, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Yukiko Ozawa
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1, Inohana, Chuo-Ku, Chiba-Shi, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Naoki Kawaguchi
- Department of Neurology, Neurology Chiba Clinic, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tomoya Kubota
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Biomedical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masanori P Takahashi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Biomedical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasushi Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Sendai Medical Center, Sendai, Japan
| | - Genya Watanabe
- Department of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Sendai Medical Center, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takashi Kimura
- Department of Neurology, Hyogo Medical University, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Takamichi Sugimoto
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Makoto Samukawa
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Naoya Minami
- Department of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Hokkaido Medical Center, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Masayuki Masuda
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shingo Konno
- Department of Neurology, Toho University Ohashi Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuriko Nagane
- Department of Neurology, Hanamaki General Hospital, Hanamaki, Japan
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease where muscle antibodies form against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR), MuSK, or LRP4 at the neuromuscular junction leading to weakness. Patients worry about consequences for pregnancy, giving birth, nursing, and child outcome. AREAS COVERED This review lists the pharmacological treatments for MG in the reproductive age and gives recommendations. Consequences for pregnancy, giving birth, breastfeeding, and child outcome are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Pyridostigmine, corticosteroids in low doses, and azathioprine are regarded as safe during pregnancy and should be continued. Mycophenolate mofetil, methotrexate, and cyclophosphamide should not be used in reproductive age. Rituximab should not be given during pregnancy. Other monoclonal IgG antibodies such as eculizumab and efgartigimod should be given only when regarded strictly necessary to avoid long-term and severe incapacity. Intravenous and subcutaneous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange are safe treatments during pregnancy and are recommended for exacerbations with moderate or severe generalized weakness. Most MG women have spontaneous vaginal deliveries. Indications for Cesarean section are obstetrical and similar to non-MG women. Neonatal myasthenia manifests as a transient weakness caused by the mother's IgG muscle antibodies and affects 10% of the babies. MG women should be supported in their wish to have children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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14
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Narita T, Nakane S, Nagaishi A, Minami N, Niino M, Kawaguchi N, Murai H, Kira JI, Shimizu J, Iwasa K, Yoshikawa H, Hatanaka Y, Sonoo M, Shimizu Y, Matsuo H. Immunotherapy for ocular myasthenia gravis: an observational study in Japan. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2023; 16:17562864231163819. [PMID: 37051222 PMCID: PMC10084546 DOI: 10.1177/17562864231163819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Treatment for ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) has not yet been well established. Few reports have been published on the clinical practice and outcomes of OMG. Objectives We investigated treatment of OMG and its outcomes in Japan.We investigated treatment of OMG and its outcomes in Japan. Design We performed a retrospective cross-sectional survey of OMG patients from eight hospitals in Japan. Methods Clinical information, including sex, age at onset, initial symptoms, autoantibodies, clinical course, treatment history, complications, and outcomes, was obtained. In addition, we recorded the total number of patients with MG and OMG separately. Results In total, 135 patients with OMG (67 men, 68 women) were included. Treatment of OMG was not simple and involved various immunotherapeutic strategies. Eight patients went into remission spontaneously without immunotherapy. A total of 117 patients showed improvements after treatment, whereas 10 patients showed refractory responses to treatment. Overall outcomes were good; however, symptoms persisted in 60.7% of patients even after treatment. Among 90 patients who received immunotherapy, only two showed a refractory response. Meanwhile, for 45 patients who did not receive immunotherapy, 8 were refractory. Thus, the rate of refractory disease in the group with immunotherapy was significantly lower (p = 0.001, u-test) than in the group without immunotherapy. The proportion of generalized MG patients among all MG cases was low in medical centers where immunotherapy for OMG was frequently performed. Conclusion Although the overall prognosis for patients with OMG was good, symptoms remained in more than half of the patients. Immunotherapy, including corticosteroids, may be beneficial for patients with OMG. Plain language summary Is immunosuppressive therapy beneficial for myasthenia gravis patients with ocular symptoms only? Patients with ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) have only eye symptoms for more than 2 years. Whether this condition is an initial stage of the disease before eventually progressing to generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) is still uncertain. Different from gMG, OMG is not life-threatening. But eye symptoms often cause troublesome problems in life. Doctors have treated OMG patients similarly to patients with gMG. There is no standard clinical practice for OMG. In this study, we examined how patients with OMG were treated at eight different specialist centers in Japan. In 135 patients with OMG, 8 patients became symptom free without treatment, 117 patients showed improvements after treatment, whereas 10 patients did not get well. Overall outcomes were good, but symptoms remained in 60.7% of patients even after treatment. Among 90 patients who received one or more immunotherapies, only 2 did not get well. Meanwhile, for 45 patients who did not receive immunotherapy, 8 remained ill. We found that treatment of OMG was not simple and often needed multiple immunotherapies. Administering immunotherapy, including corticosteroids, may be beneficial for patients with OMG.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Akiko Nagaishi
- Department of Neurology, National Hospital Organization, Nagasaki Kawatana Medical Center, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Naoya Minami
- Department of Neurology, National Hospital Organization, Hokkaido Medical Center, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Masaaki Niino
- Department of Neurology, National Hospital Organization, Hokkaido Medical Center, Sapporo, Japan
| | | | - Hiroyuki Murai
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Neurology, International University of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun-ichi Kira
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Jun Shimizu
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuo Iwasa
- Department of Neurology and Neurobiology of Aging, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Yoshikawa
- Department of Neurology and Neurobiology of Aging, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Health Service Center, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Yuki Hatanaka
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Sonoo
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Shimizu
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Abstract
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder caused by antibodies against elements in the postsynaptic membrane at the neuromuscular junction, which leads to muscle weakness. Congenital myasthenic syndromes are rare and caused by mutations affecting pre- or postsynaptic function at the neuromuscular synapse and resulting in muscle weakness. MG has a prevalence of 150-250 and an annual incidence of 8-10 individuals per million. The majority has disease onset after age 50 years. Juvenile MG with onset in early childhood is more common in East Asia. MG is subgrouped according to type of pathogenic autoantibodies, age of onset, thymus pathology, and generalization of muscle weakness. More than 80% have antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor. The remaining have antibodies against MuSK, LRP4, or postsynaptic membrane antigens not yet identified. A thymoma is present in 10% of MG patients, and more than one-third of thymoma patients develop MG as a paraneoplastic condition. Immunosuppressive drug therapy, thymectomy, and symptomatic drug therapy with acetylcholine esterase inhibitors represent cornerstones in the treatment. The prognosis is good, with the majority of patients having mild or moderate symptoms only. Most congenital myasthenic syndromes are due to dysfunction in the postsynaptic membrane. Symptom debut is in early life. Symptomatic drug treatment has sometimes a positive effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital and Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
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16
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Xu P, Zhang Y, Chang T, Jiang L, Lv Z, Zhang Y, Xu H, Zhang D, Lan T, Cui Y, Hua Z, Gao C, Lu J, Huang Q, Tian J, Ma J, Wang J. Comparative the efficacy and acceptability of immunosuppressive agents for myasthenia gravis: A protocol for systematic review and network meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e31454. [PMID: 36550882 PMCID: PMC9771229 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000031454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunosuppressive drugs are routinely used to treat myasthenia gravis (MG). However, current recommendations provide limited evidence to support treatment options, leading to considerable variation in practice among healthcare specialists. Hence, we present a protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) to update the evidence by comparing the efficacy and acceptability of oral immunosuppressive drugs for the treatment of MG. METHODS We will conduct a systematic review and NMA of all randomized controlled trials evaluating the following oral immunosuppressive drugs for the treatment of MG. Published studies will be searched using the following databases from inception to November 23, 2021: CENTRAL, the CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and 3 Chinese databases (Chinese Biomedical Literatures Database, CNKI, and Wan Fang database). Assessment of study eligibility and data extraction will be conducted independently by 2 reviewers. The main outcome will be a quantitative MG scoring system. We will conduct Bayesian NMA to synthesize all evidence for each outcome and obtain a comprehensive ranking of all treatments. The quality of the evidence will be evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations framework. RESULTS The objective of this study was to assess the relative clinical efficacy and acceptability of first-line immunosuppressants for the treatment of MG, using a systematic review and NMA approach. CONCLUSION In the absence of head-to-head trials comparing therapies, evidence from this NMA of available clinical trials will inform clinicians, patients, and families the risk-benefit profiles of different treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Tianying Chang
- GCP Department, The Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Li Jiang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zhiguo Lv
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yibin Zhang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Hanying Xu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Dongmei Zhang
- Scientific Research Office, The Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Tianye Lan
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yingzi Cui
- GCP Department, The Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Zhen Hua
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chengfei Gao
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jing Lu
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Qingxia Huang
- Research Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jinhui Tian
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China
| | - Jihui Ma
- Department of Health Research, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
- * Correspondence:Jian Wang, Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin Province, China (e-mail: )
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17
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Remijn-Nelissen L, Verschuuren JJGM, Tannemaat MR. The effectiveness and side effects of pyridostigmine in the treatment of myasthenia gravis: a cross-sectional study. Neuromuscul Disord 2022; 32:790-799. [PMID: 36184373 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Pyridostigmine is the most commonly used drug in the symptomatic treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG); however, research into its effectiveness and side effects is scarce. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness, prevalence of side effects and net benefit of pyridostigmine. All MG patients participating in the Dutch-Belgian myasthenia patient registry were included. A dynamic online questionnaire was developed to assess the effectiveness, side effects and net benefit of pyridostigmine. Out of 642 invited patients, 410 patients (64%) fully completed the questionnaire; 61% reported that they currently used pyridostigmine, 36% had discontinued pyridostigmine and 2% reported to never have used pyridostigmine. Patients reported a median effectiveness of 60, IQR 28-78 and net benefit of 65, IQR 45-84. Of all patients currently using pyridostigmine, 91% reported side effects (vs. 55% in the control group). Most frequently reported side effects were flatulence, urinary urgency, muscle cramps, blurred vision and hyperhidrosis. In the group of patients who discontinued pyridostigmine, side effects were the reason for discontinuation in 26%. Diarrhea, abdominal cramps and muscle twitching were the most frequently cited reasons to discontinue pyridostigmine. These results can be used to guide shared decision making prior to starting symptomatic treatment for MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Remijn-Nelissen
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jan J G M Verschuuren
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Martijn R Tannemaat
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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18
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Kang MC, Park KA, Min JH, Oh SY. Myasthenia gravis with ocular symptoms following a ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination: A case report. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2022; 27:101620. [PMID: 35800401 PMCID: PMC9254405 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2022.101620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We report on the case of a 35-year-old man who developed myasthenia gravis with ocular symptoms following a ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine injection. Observations A 35-year-old man complained of binocular diplopia one month following ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination. He had weak infraduction of the left eye. Upper and lower extremity strength was normal on presentation. A serum antiacetylcholine receptor antibody titer was elevated at 1.60 nmol/L. His diplopia improved temporarily following the application of an ice pack for 2 min. Conclusions and importance This case report describes a rare occurrence of myasthenia gravis with ocular symptoms as a potential complication of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chae Kang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Ah Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Corresponding author. Department of Ophthalmology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, South Korea.
| | - Ju-Hong Min
- Department of Neurology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Corresponding author. Department of Neurology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, South Korea.
| | - Sei Yeul Oh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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19
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Generalization of ocular myasthenia gravis 10 years after onset. J Neurol 2022; 269:6597-6604. [PMID: 36001142 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11316-3] [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: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Generalization of ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) represents a pejorative evolution, and no validated generalization-prevention strategy exists. The study aimed to determine the percentage of patients with OMG generalization and identify factors predictive of it to establish a prediction score. METHODS This retrospective, observational study included 151 patients diagnosed with OMG after an initial work-up in our institution. The outcome measure was time to MG generalization. The explanatory variables were age at onset (> 55 years), sex, first-year anti-acetylcholine-receptor antibody-positivity, repetitive nerve stimulation showing electromyogram decrement and corticosteroid use. Kaplan-Meier estimations of the probability of risk of generalization, and descriptive and multivariate Cox model analyses were computed. A nomogram combining explanatory variables was used to establish a score to predict the probability of OMG generalization. RESULTS Among 183 patients' charts identified, 151 had confirmed OMG. Their median follow-up was 5.7 years. Estimations (95% CI) of OMG-generalization risk at 1, 3 and 10 years post-symptom onset, respectively, were: 13.0% (7.3-18.2), 25.1% (17.5-32.0) and 37.8% (27.2-45.2). The p-value-based multivariate analysis associated generalization with female sex, electromyogram decrement and first-year anti-acetylcholine-receptor antibody positivity, and Akaike information criterion-based analysis retained those three parameters and corticosteroid use. A nomogram was built and validated with an optimism-corrected C-statistic of 0.68, and calibration plots showed good fit. CONCLUSIONS Our population's percentage of OMG generalization is in line with recent publications. Using the identified prognostic factors, the nomogram provided a score to predict the probable risk of generalization in our cohort.
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20
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Rao J, Li S, Wang Q, Cheng Q, Ji Y, Fu W, Huang H, Shi L, Wu X. Comparison of Peripheral Blood Regulatory T Cells and Functional Subsets Between Ocular and Generalized Myasthenia Gravis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:851808. [PMID: 35755064 PMCID: PMC9218215 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.851808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aims to discuss the function mechanism of regulatory T cells and its subsets in the pathogenic process of myasthenia gravis by contracting the activation levels of those cells in peripheral blood among healthy people, patients with ocular myasthenia gravis (oMG) and patients with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG). Method Healthy people, newly diagnosed oMG patients, and gMG patients were enrolled in this study. The percentage of the CD3+CD4+CD25+ Treg cells, CD3+CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells, CD3+CD4+CD25+Foxp3hi CD45RA–aTreg cells, CD3+CD4+CD25+Foxp3loCD45RA–n-sTreg cells, and CD3+CD4+CD25+ Foxp3loCD45RA+rTreg cells in the peripheral blood were examined by flow cytometry. And then analyzed the differences of Treg cells and its subsets among the study members. Results The percentage of the CD4+CD25+Treg cells in the peripheral blood of oMG patients and gMG patients were both lower than that of healthy people (p < 0.05), the percentage of patients with oMG had no distinct difference with that of patients with gMG (p = 0.475), however. Also, the percentage of CD3+CD4+CD25+Foxp3+Treg cells in the oMG and gMG patients’ group were both lower than that of healthy group. And the percentage of CD25+Foxp3+Treg cells in the peripheral blood of patients with oMG and healthy people were both higher than that of patients with gMG (p < 0.05). The percentage of rTreg in the CD3+CD4+CD25+Treg of the peripheral blood for both gMG and oMG patients’ group were lower than healthy group (p < 0.05), but there was no statistical significance between the oMG and gMG patients’ group (p = 0.232). The percentage of the aTreg cells in the CD3+CD4+CD25+Treg cells of the peripheral blood for the oMG patients was higher than that of gMG patients (p < 0.05), but both of them were lower than healthy group (p < 0.05). The percentage of n-sTreg cells in the peripheral blood descended among the gMG patients’ group, oMG patients’ group, and healthy group (p < 0.05). Conclusion The changes in the number and function of Treg cells and its subsets can cause the impairment of negative immune regulation, which may mediate the triggering of oMG and its progression to gMG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Rao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Siyu Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qiyu Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qi Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yu Ji
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wenwen Fu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Hui Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ling Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaorong Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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Zhang Y, Li F, Zhu H, Yu H, Wang T, Yan X. Less is not necessarily more: low-dose corticosteroid therapy and long-term prognosis in generalized myasthenia gravis after thymectomy. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:3949-3956. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-05897-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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22
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Risk for generalization in ocular onset myasthenia gravis: experience from a neuro-ophthalmology clinic. Acta Neurol Belg 2022; 122:337-344. [PMID: 33544334 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-020-01582-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Conversion to generalized myasthenia gravis (GMG) within the first 2 years has been reported in 18-85% of patients with ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG). The aim of the study was to investigate the risk factors for generalization in patients with OMG admitted to a neuro-ophthalmology clinic and to determine if there were differences between patients with GMG with predominant bulbar (GMG-B) or extremity muscle (GMG-E) involvement according to the 6th and 24th-month Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America classification ranks. Patients with OMG who were followed-up for at least 24 months were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic, clinical, laboratory features and treatment strategies that can be associated with generalization and time to generalization were evaluated. Of the 139 patients with OMG, 54 (39%) showed generalization with a mean time of 10.3 (range 2-24) months. GMG-B and GMG-E were diagnosed in 31 (22.3%) and 23 patients (16.5%), respectively. Seropositivity for acetylcholine receptor and muscle-specific tyrosine kinase antibodies, abnormal single-fiber electromyography (SFEMG), and the presence of thymic abnormalities (thymoma and hyperplasia) were factors associated with generalization on multivariate analysis without a significant difference between the GMG-B and GMG-E groups. In addition, an abnormal repetitive nerve stimulation test was related to a shortened time to generalization. Bilateral ptosis at onset was found as a risk factor for generalization. In a neuro-ophthalmology clinic, bilateral ptosis as an initial feature of OMG must be approached cautiously because it may be the first sign of impending GMG.
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Sivakumar P, Tagare S, Kumar M. Diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of bed side tests versus laboratory tests in the diagnosis of ocular myasthenia. Indian J Ophthalmol 2022; 70:1331-1337. [PMID: 35326049 PMCID: PMC9240561 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_2015_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess the diagnostic accuracy of forced eyelid closure test (FECT), ice pack test (IPT), repetitive nerve stimulation test (RNS), and acetylcholine receptor (AchR) antibody test in patients with suspected ocular myasthenia. To assess the clinical utility of AchR antibody test in predicting disease progression. Methods Retrospective cohort study of patients diagnosed with ocular myasthenia at a South-Indian neuro-ophthalmology tertiary eye clinic. Baseline characteristics; ocular myasthenia symptoms; results of FECT, IPT, RNS, and AchR antibody test; and progression time to generalized myasthenia (GM) over 36 months from the time of diagnosis were recorded and analyzed using receiver operator curve analysis, multiple logistic regression, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Results FECT had a sensitivity of 96.7% (95% CI: 88.5-99.6) and a specificity of 75% (95% CI: 34.9-96.8). Combination of FECT and IPT, using the positivity of at least one test, increased the sensitivity to 98.3% (95% CI: 91-100), reducing the specificity to 50% (95% CI: 15.7-84.3), whereas using the positivity of both tests, we obtained a sensitivity of 71.7% (95% CI: 58.6-82.5) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI: 63.1-100). In the subset of patients with double negative RNS and AchR antibodies, the positive predictive value of combined FECT and IPT (double positive) was 100%. Patients who developed GM were more likely to have a positive AchR antibody test result (P = 0.001). Conclusion Combined FECT and IPT (double positive) has high diagnostic accuracy even among patients with normal RNS and negative AchR antibodies. Despite low sensitivity, AchR-antibody test has a significant predictive value in disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Sivakumar
- Department of Neuro Ophthalmology and Low Vision Services, Aravind Eye Care, Puducherry, India
| | | | - Mahesh Kumar
- DNB Ophthalmology, Aravind Eye Care, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
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Lei L, Fan Z, Su S, Xu M, Chen H, Zhu W, Luan Q, Da Y. Involvement of Ocular Muscles in Patients With Myasthenia Gravis With Nonocular Onset. J Neuroophthalmol 2022; 42:e260-e266. [PMID: 34369469 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000001325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder involving neuromuscular junctions and more than half of MG patients manifested with extraocular muscle weakness initially. In the remained patients, ocular weakness may occur later in the course of the disease. However, little data are available about ocular involvement in such patients. Therefore, the study aims to investigate ocular weakness in MG patients with nonocular onset and evaluate the associated factors influencing it. METHODS In our monocentric retrospective study, 54 adult-onset patients with MG with nonocular onset were included and were followed up for at least 2 years from the onset. The primary outcome was the occurrence of ptosis, diplopia, or both. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to estimate the time to the ocular weakness, and log-rank tests were used to analyze the association between clinical characteristics and ocular weakness. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to identify factors associated with ocular involvement. RESULTS A total of 47 (87.0%) patients developed ocular weakness during the study period. The median time to ocular weakness was 6.0 months. Time to the ocular involvement was earlier in patients with bulbar onset (P = 0.007), whereas patients receiving pyridostigmine monotherapy and immunomodulatory therapy had a longer median time of ocular weakness (P < 0.0001). No significant difference was noted between ocular weakness and age of onset, gender, and thymoma. The Cox analysis showed that bulbar onset was a risk factor of ocular weakness (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.41-4.99), whereas pyridostigmine monotherapy (adjusted HR 0.28, 95% CI 0.13-0.60) and immunotherapy (adjusted HR 0.09, 95% CI 0.04-0.22) were protective factors. CONCLUSIONS Eighty-seven percent of patients with MG with nonocular onset developed ocular weakness. Bulbar onset was an independent risk factor for ocular involvement, whereas pyridostigmine and immunotherapy were protective factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lei
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Ruan Z, Guo R, Zhou H, Gao F, Lin Y, Xu Q, Yu L, Wu S, Lei T, Zhang M, Gao Y, Lu X, Li H, Sun C, Tang B, Li Z, Chang T. Association of immunosuppression treatment with generalization among patients with ocular myasthenia gravis: a propensity score analysis. Eur J Neurol 2022; 29:1805-1814. [PMID: 35188698 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To analyze disease generalization in patients with ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) treated with immunosuppression compared with patients without immunosuppression treatment. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed data from patients with OMG at seven medical centers in China from January 1, 2015 to May 1, 2019 and compared disease generalization in patients (treated with immunosuppression vs. not treated) within 2 years of disease onset using raw and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analyses. RESULTS In the study population of 813 patients with OMG, 425 (52.3%) with immunosuppression had a mean (SD) onset age of 50.0 (15.1) years, and 188 (44.2%) were women. The remaining 388 (47.7%) patients were not immunosuppressed (mean age, 48.4 [15.0] years; 185 [47.7%] women). Disease generalization developed in 122 (31.4%) and 37 (8.7%) patients in the non-immunosuppression and immunosuppression groups, respectively. Relative to non-immunosuppression, immunosuppression was associated with a lower risk of generalization in a multivariable-adjusted Cox model (hazard ratio [HR], 0.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.18-0.40; P<0.001) and IPTW-weighted Cox model (HR, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.19-0.42; P<0.001). In sensitivity analyses, longer duration of immunosuppression was associated with a lower risk of generalization (HR, 0.90 for every one-month increase; 95% CI, 0.87-0.92; P<0.001; IPTW-adjusted). Combination therapy with steroids and non-steroidal immunosuppressants showed superior efficacy in reducing the risk of generalization (HR, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.07-0.26; P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Immunosuppression significantly reduced the 2-year risk of generalization in patients with OMG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Ruan
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Rongjing Guo
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongyu Zhou
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Neuroimmunology, BGI College & Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou
| | - Ye Lin
- Department of Neurology, The People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Quan Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Nanchang, China
| | - Liping Yu
- Department of Neurology, Xianyang First People's Hospital, Xianyang, China
| | - Songdi Wu
- Department of Neurology, Xi'an No.1 Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Tao Lei
- Department of Neurology, Xi'an Fourth People's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yanwu Gao
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaodan Lu
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Huanhuan Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chao Sun
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Baoli Tang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhuyi Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ting Chang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Albarrán V, Chamorro J, Rosero DI, Saavedra C, Soria A, Carrato A, Gajate P. Neurologic Toxicity of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Review of Literature. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:774170. [PMID: 35237154 PMCID: PMC8882914 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.774170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have entailed a change of paradigm in the management of multiple malignant diseases and are acquiring a key role in an increasing number of clinical sceneries. However, since their mechanism of action is not limited to the tumor microenvironment, their systemic activity may lead to a wide spectrum of immune-related side effects. Although neurological adverse events are much less frequent than gastrointestinal, hepatic, or lung toxicity, with an incidence of <5%, their potential severity and consequent interruptions to cancer treatment make them of particular importance. Despite them mainly implying peripheral neuropathies, immunotherapy has also been associated with an increased risk of encephalitis and paraneoplastic disorders affecting the central nervous system, often appearing in a clinical context where the appropriate diagnosis and early management of neuropsychiatric symptoms can be challenging. Although the pathogenesis of these complications is not fully understood yet, the blockade of tumoral inhibitory signals, and therefore the elicitation of cytotoxic T-cell-mediated response, seems to play a decisive role. The aim of this review was to summarize the current knowledge about the pathogenic mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and therapeutic recommendations regarding the main forms of neurotoxicity related to checkpoint inhibitors.
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Abstract
Myasthenia gravis is a rare autoimmune disease characterised by autoantibodies preventing normal function of acetylcholine receptors at the post-synaptic membrane of the neuromuscular junction. This causes weakness of skeletal muscles that can be variable and fatigable, and often manifests as ptosis and/or diplopia, with 60% of patients demonstrating ocular features at onset, and thus may present initially to eye care practitioners. Approximately 15% of patients have ocular myasthenia gravis, where symptoms remain restricted to this distribution. The majority of patients have blocking antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor, but antibodies directed against other related targets account for a smaller proportion and are associated with specific phenotypes. Associations with both thymoma and with other autoimmune phenomena (particularly thyroid disease) can occur. Clinical examination can identify characteristic findings including fatigable ptosis and Cogan's lid twitch sign. Investigations to confirm the diagnosis include simple office-based procedures such as the ice test, and testing for serum autoantibodies, as well as electrophysiological testing such as repetitive nerve stimulation and single-fibre electromyography. The management of ocular myasthenia gravis is discussed, including non-pharmacological options, pyridostigmine, corticosteroids, other immunosuppressive agents, and thymectomy. The goals of management are to alleviate symptoms, and where possible prevent chronic disability or progression to generalised myasthenia gravis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil H Shuey
- Neuro-ophthalmology Clinic, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia.,Clinical Neurosciences, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia
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28
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Aljaafari D, Ishaque N. Thymectomy in myasthenia gravis: A narrative review. SAUDI JOURNAL OF MEDICINE AND MEDICAL SCIENCES 2022; 10:97-104. [PMID: 35602390 PMCID: PMC9121707 DOI: 10.4103/sjmms.sjmms_80_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Treatment and Management of Disorders of the Neuromuscular Junction. Neuromuscul Disord 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-71317-7.00019-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Salari N, Fatahi B, Bartina Y, Kazeminia M, Fatahian R, Mohammadi P, Shohaimi S, Mohammadi M. Global prevalence of myasthenia gravis and the effectiveness of common drugs in its treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Transl Med 2021; 19:516. [PMID: 34930325 PMCID: PMC8686543 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-03185-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular autoimmune disorder characterized by weakness and disability in the voluntary muscles. There have been several preliminary studies on the epidemiology of myasthenia gravis in different parts of the world and the effectiveness of common drugs in its treatment, but there has been no comprehensive study of the efficacy of common drugs in the treatment of myasthenia gravis. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the epidemiology of myasthenia gravis globally and the effectiveness of common drugs in its treatment using systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS Research studies were extracted from IranDoc, MagIran, IranMedex, SID, ScienceDirect, Web of Sciences (WoS), ProQuest, Medline (PubMed), Scopus and Google Scholar based on Cochran's seven-step guidelines using existing keywords extracted in MeSH browser. The I2 test was used to calculate the heterogeneity of studies, and Begg and Mazumdar rank correlation tests were used to assess publication bias. Data were analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (Version 2). RESULTS In the search for descriptive studies based on the research question, 7374 articles were found. After deleting articles unrelated to the research question, finally, 63 articles with a sample size of 1,206,961,907 people were included in the meta-analysis. The prevalence of MG worldwide was estimated to be 12.4 people (95% CI 10.6-14.5) per 100,000 population. For analytical studies on the effectiveness of common myasthenia gravis drugs, 4672 articles were found initially, and after removing articles unrelated to the research question, finally, 20 articles with a sample size of 643 people in the drug group and 619 people in the placebo group were included in the study. As a result of the combination of studies, the difference between the mean QMGS score index after taking Mycophenolate and Immunoglobulin or plasma exchange drugs in the group of patients showed a significant decrease of 1.4 ± 0.77 and 0.62 ± 0.28, respectively (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION The results of systematic review of drug evaluation in patients with myasthenia gravis showed that Mycophenolate and Immunoglobulin or plasma exchange drugs have positive effects in the treatment of MG. It also represents the positive effect of immunoglobulin or plasma exchange on reducing SFEMG index and QMGS index and the positive effect of Mycophenolate in reducing MG-ADL index, SFEMG and Anti-AChR antibodies index. In addition, based on a meta-analysis of the random-effect model, the overall prevalence of MG in the world is 12.4 people per 100,000 population, which indicates the urgent need for attention to this disease for prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Salari
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Behnaz Fatahi
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Yalda Bartina
- Department of Translation Studies, Faculty of Literature, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mohsen Kazeminia
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Reza Fatahian
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Payam Mohammadi
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Shamarina Shohaimi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Masoud Mohammadi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Gerash University of Medical Sciences, Gerash, Iran
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Rodolico C, Bonanno C, Brizzi T, Nicocia G, Trimarchi G, Lupica A, Pugliese A, Musumeci O, Toscano A. Methotrexate as a Steroid-Sparing Agent in Myasthenia Gravis: A Preliminary Retrospective Study. J Clin Neuromuscul Dis 2021; 23:61-65. [PMID: 34808648 DOI: 10.1097/cnd.0000000000000342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Treatment approach of myasthenia gravis (MG) is still debated; corticosteroids alone or in combination with immunosuppressive agents are the most used drugs. Azathioprine (AZA) has been shown to be effective for MG with a significant steroid-sparing activity, although burdened by side effects. Few studies on methotrexate (MTX) administration showed controversial results. In this cohort, we evaluated the role of MTX as a effective steroid-sparing agent. METHODS Fifteen MG patients treated with MTX, previously treated with AZA for at least 12 months, with poor benefits and uncomfortable side effects AZA related, have been selected. Each patient was evaluated through MG-Activity of Daily Living and Quantitative MG scores 5 times/yr. RESULTS Patients treated with MTX had a significant improvement of MG-Activity of Daily Living and Quantitative MG scores. Furthermore, all patients reduced prednisone dosage, and none complained of side effects. CONCLUSIONS We suggest MTX is effective and well tolerated and could be considered as a steroid-sparing agent in MG treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Rodolico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Carmen Bonanno
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Teresa Brizzi
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
| | - Giulia Nicocia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Antonino Lupica
- Nemo Sud Clinical Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, University Hospital "G. Martino," Messina, Italy
| | - Alessia Pugliese
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Olimpia Musumeci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Toscano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Smith VM, Nguyen H, Rumsey JW, Long CJ, Shuler ML, Hickman JJ. A Functional Human-on-a-Chip Autoimmune Disease Model of Myasthenia Gravis for Development of Therapeutics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:745897. [PMID: 34881241 PMCID: PMC8645836 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.745897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic and progressive neuromuscular disease where autoantibodies target essential proteins such as the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) causing muscle fatigue and weakness. Autoantibodies directed against nAChRs are proposed to work by three main pathological mechanisms of receptor disruption: blocking, receptor internalization, and downregulation. Current in vivo models using experimental autoimmune animal models fail to recapitulate the disease pathology and are limited in clinical translatability due to disproportionate disease severity and high animal death rates. The development of a highly sensitive antibody assay that mimics human disease pathology is desirable for clinical advancement and therapeutic development. To address this lack of relevant models, an NMJ platform derived from human iPSC differentiated motoneurons and primary skeletal muscle was used to investigate the ability of an anti-nAChR antibody to induce clinically relevant MG pathology in the serum-free, spatially organized, functionally mature NMJ platform. Treatment of the NMJ model with the anti-nAChR antibody revealed decreasing NMJ stability as measured by the number of NMJs before and after the synchrony stimulation protocol. This decrease in NMJ stability was dose-dependent over a concentration range of 0.01-20 μg/mL. Immunocytochemical (ICC) analysis was used to distinguish between pathological mechanisms of antibody-mediated receptor disruption including blocking, receptor internalization and downregulation. Antibody treatment also activated the complement cascade as indicated by complement protein 3 deposition near the nAChRs. Additionally, complement cascade activation significantly altered other readouts of NMJ function including the NMJ fidelity parameter as measured by the number of muscle contractions missed in response to increasing motoneuron stimulation frequencies. This synchrony readout mimics the clinical phenotype of neurological blocking that results in failure of muscle contractions despite motoneuron stimulations. Taken together, these data indicate the establishment of a relevant disease model of MG that mimics reduction of functional nAChRs at the NMJ, decreased NMJ stability, complement activation and blocking of neuromuscular transmission. This system is the first functional human in vitro model of MG to be used to simulate three potential disease mechanisms as well as to establish a preclinical platform for evaluation of disease modifying treatments (etiology).
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia M. Smith
- Hybrid Systems Lab, NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
- Hesperos, Inc., Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Huan Nguyen
- Hybrid Systems Lab, NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | | | | | | | - James J. Hickman
- Hybrid Systems Lab, NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
- Hesperos, Inc., Orlando, FL, United States
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Payedimarri AB, Ratti M, Rescinito R, Vasile A, Seys D, Dumas H, Vanhaecht K, Panella M. Development of a Model Care Pathway for Myasthenia Gravis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11591. [PMID: 34770107 PMCID: PMC8582978 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a chronic, life-lasting condition that requires high coordination among different professionals and disciplines. The diagnosis of MG is often delayed and sometimes misdiagnosed. The goal of the care pathway (CP) is to add value to healthcare reducing unnecessary variations. The quality of the care received by patients affected with MG could benefit from the use of CP. We conducted a study aimed to define an inclusive, comprehensive, and multidisciplinary CP for the diagnosis, treatment, and care of MG. The development of the model CP, key interventions, and process indicators is based on the literature review and 85 international MG experts were involved in their evaluation, expressing a judgment of relevance through the Delphi study. 60 activities are included in the model CP and evaluated by the MG experts were valid and feasible. The 60 activities were then translated into 14 key interventions and 24 process indicators. We believe that the developed model CP will help for MG patients to have a timely diagnosis and high-quality, accessible, and cost-effective treatments and care. We also believe that the development of model CPs for other rare diseases is feasible and could aid in the integration of evidence-based knowledge into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil babu Payedimarri
- Department of Translational Medicine (DIMET), Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.R.); (R.R.); (A.V.); (M.P.)
- European Pathway Association, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.S.); (K.V.)
| | - Matteo Ratti
- Department of Translational Medicine (DIMET), Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.R.); (R.R.); (A.V.); (M.P.)
- European Pathway Association, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.S.); (K.V.)
| | - Riccardo Rescinito
- Department of Translational Medicine (DIMET), Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.R.); (R.R.); (A.V.); (M.P.)
- European Pathway Association, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.S.); (K.V.)
| | - Alessandra Vasile
- Department of Translational Medicine (DIMET), Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.R.); (R.R.); (A.V.); (M.P.)
- European Pathway Association, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.S.); (K.V.)
| | - Deborah Seys
- European Pathway Association, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.S.); (K.V.)
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leuven Institute for Healthcare Policy, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Kris Vanhaecht
- European Pathway Association, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.S.); (K.V.)
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leuven Institute for Healthcare Policy, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Quality Management, University Hospitals Leuven, University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Massimiliano Panella
- Department of Translational Medicine (DIMET), Università del Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.R.); (R.R.); (A.V.); (M.P.)
- European Pathway Association, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.S.); (K.V.)
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Guo RJ, Gao T, Ruan Z, Zhou HY, Gao F, Xu Q, Yu LP, Wu SD, Lei T, Li HH, Sun C, Zhang M, Gao YW, Lu XD, Tang YL, Tang BL, Huo FY, Zhu Y, Li ZY, Chang T. Risk Factors for Generalization in Patients with Ocular Myasthenia Gravis: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study. Neurol Ther 2021; 11:73-86. [PMID: 34729706 PMCID: PMC8857387 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-021-00292-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Many patients with ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) progress to generalized disease within the first 2 years of the onset of ocular symptoms. Several retrospective studies have identified risk factors associated with generalization, however these studies included patients on immunosuppression therapy or those undergoing thymectomy, which may reduce the generalization risk. In this study we explored the risk factors for generalization in non-immunosuppressed and non-thymectomized patients with OMG. Methods Data from patients with OMG treated at seven tertiary hospitals in China were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical characteristics, including sex, age at onset, symptoms at onset, comorbid autoimmune diseases, neostigmine test response, repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) findings, presence of serum anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR-Ab), and thymic status based on radiological and pathological studies, were collected. The main outcome measure was disease generalization. The follow-up period was defined as the date of ocular symptom onset to the date of confirmation of generalization or immunotherapy initiation, or last follow-up (defined as 60 months). The Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the risk factors for generalization. Results Overall, 572 patients (269 women) were eligible for inclusion in the analysis, of whom 144 developed generalization. The mean (standard deviation) onset age was 45.5 (19.8) years, and the median (interquartile range) follow-up period was 14.5 (7.0–47.3) months. Multivariable Cox regression analysis demonstrated that both early-onset (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 5.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.64–17.36; p = 0.005) and late-onset (aHR 7.18; 95% CI 2.22–23.27; p = 0.001) in adulthood, abnormal RNS findings (aHR 3.01; 95% CI 1.97–4.61; p < 0.001), seropositivity for AChR-Ab (aHR 2.58; 95% CI 1.26–5.26; p = 0.01), and thymoma (aHR 1.62; 95% CI 1.05–2.49; p = 0.03) were independently associated with increased risk of generalization. Conclusion The risk of generalization increased significantly in patients with adult-onset OMG, abnormal RNS findings, seropositivity for AChR-Ab, and thymoma, suggesting that these risk factors may predict OMG generalization. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40120-021-00292-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong-Jing Guo
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Ting Gao
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Zhe Ruan
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Hong-Yu Zhou
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Quan Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Nanchang, China
| | - Li-Ping Yu
- Department of Neurology, Xianyang First People's Hospital, Xianyang, China
| | - Song-Di Wu
- Department of Neurology, Xi'an No.1 Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Tao Lei
- Department of Neurology, Xi'an Fourth Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Huan-Huan Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Chao Sun
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Yan-Wu Gao
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Xiao-Dan Lu
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Yong-Lan Tang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Bao-Li Tang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Fei-Yan Huo
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Zhu-Yi Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China.
| | - Ting Chang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, China.
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Li H, Ruan Z, Gao F, Zhou H, Guo R, Sun C, Xu Q, Lu Q, Zhou Y, Zhao Z, Yu L, Wu S, Lei T, Gao T, Tang Y, Li C, Huo F, Zhu Y, Sun J, Tang B, Zhang M, Gao Y, Lu X, Li Z, Chang T. Thymectomy and Risk of Generalization in Patients with Ocular Myasthenia Gravis: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:2449-2457. [PMID: 34625864 PMCID: PMC8804035 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01129-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the association between thymectomy and the risk of generalization in patients with ocular myasthenia gravis (MG). Data on patients with ocular MG from seven neurological centers in China were retrospectively reviewed. Ocular MG naïve to immunotherapy was categorized according to whether thymectomy was performed (thymectomized group vs. nonsurgical group). Patients in the thymectomized group all underwent surgery within 2 years since ocular symptom onset. The main outcome measure was the generalization. The follow-up period was defined from the date of ocular symptom onset to the date of generalization confirmation, immunotherapy initiation, or last follow-up (defined as 60 months). Of 519 eligible patients (mean [SD] age, 48.7 [15.2] years, 46.6% women), 31 (23.7%) of 131 generalized in the thymectomized group and 122 (31.4%) of 388 did in the nonsurgical group during a median follow-up of 19 months (IQR 8.0-50.0). Thymectomy was independently associated with reduced generalization risk (adjusted HR 0.41, 95% CI 0.25-0.66, P < 0.001). Multivariable stratified analysis also verified this association across the subgroups. Kaplan-Meier curves showed that the 5-year cumulative rate was significantly lower in the thymectomized group than in the nonsurgical group. To conclude, thymectomy may be considered effective in modifying the progression from ocular to generalized MG irrespective of thymoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Zhe Ruan
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongyu Zhou
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Rongjing Guo
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Chao Sun
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Quan Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital Affiliated To Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qiang Lu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yongan Zhou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhengwei Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Liping Yu
- Department of Neurology, Xianyang First People's Hospital, Xianyang, China
| | - Songdi Wu
- Department of Neurology, Xi'an No.1 Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Tao Lei
- Department of Neurology, Xi'an Fourth Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Ting Gao
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Yonglan Tang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Chunhong Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Feiyan Huo
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Baoli Tang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Yanwu Gao
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Xiaodan Lu
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China
| | - Zhuyi Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China.
| | - Ting Chang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, 569 XinSi Road, Xi'an, 710038, China.
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Zhou L, Wei X. Ocular Immune-Related Adverse Events Associated With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Lung Cancer. Front Immunol 2021; 12:701951. [PMID: 34504488 PMCID: PMC8421677 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.701951] [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: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are novel immunotherapy-based drugs that have become increasingly popular in the treatment of lung cancer. Researchers have recognized ocular immune-related adverse events (irAEs) secondary to ICIs because of their vision-threatening characteristics. However, they are incompletely characterized and no studies have reported the ICI-related ocular irAEs in lung cancer. Therefore, we aimed to comprehensively illustrate the clinical characteristics, contributory factors, diagnosis, and management of ICI-related ocular irAEs in lung cancer, based on previously reported 79 patients. Ophthalmoplegia (40.51%), uveitis (20.25%), and dry eye (17.72%) were the most common ICI-related ocular irAEs in lung cancer. Ptosis was the most common (36.71%) and the highest mortality (23.33%) of ophthalmoplegia. Patients in Asia and patients who underwent combination therapy with programmed cell death-1 and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 inhibitors demonstrated significantly higher frequency of ophthalmoplegia than other ocular irAEs. Most ICI-related ophthalmoplegia and uveitis in lung cancer were observed in the first 10 weeks following the initiation of ICIs. Furthermore, the onset time of dry eye and other ocular irAEs was much longer. In addition, 92.31% of the patients with ocular irAEs other than ophthalmoplegia could be remised. In conclusion, ocular irAEs secondary to ICIs in lung cancer are non-negligible, particularly ophthalmoplegia. Ethnicity and the type of ICIs play important roles in the distribution of ocular irAEs. ICI-related ophthalmoplegia in lung cancer presented with early onset and worse prognosis features, thus necessitating further attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Li F, Li Z, Chen Y, Bauer G, Uluk D, Elsner A, Swierzy M, Ismail M, Meisel A, Rückert JC. Thymectomy in ocular myasthenia gravis before generalization results in a higher remission rate. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2021; 57:478-487. [PMID: 31628812 DOI: 10.1093/ejcts/ezz275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to compare the outcomes of patients with ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) who underwent thymectomy before generalization with the outcomes of those who underwent thymectomy after generalization. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent robotic thymectomy for myasthenia gravis between January 2003 and February 2018. Patients who presented with purely ocular symptoms at myasthenia gravis onset were eligible for inclusion. Exclusion criteria were patients who were lost to follow-up and patients who underwent re-thymectomy. Patients with OMG who developed generalization before thymectomy were categorized into gOMG group and those who did not were categorized into OMG group. The primary outcome was complete stable remission according to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America Post-Intervention Status (MGFA-PIS). RESULTS One hundred and sixty-five (66 males and 99 females) out of 596 patients with myasthenia gravis were eligible for inclusion. Of these, there were 73 and 92 patients undergoing thymectomy before and after the generalization of OMG, respectively. After propensity score matching, a data set of 130 patients (65 per group) was formed and evaluating results showed no statistical differences between the 2 groups. The estimated cumulative probabilities of complete stable remission at 5 years were 49.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.345-0.611] in the OMG group and 33.4% (95% CI 0.176-0.462) in the gOMG group (P = 0.0053). Similar results were also found in patients with non-thymomatous subgroup [55 patients per group, OMG vs gOMG, 53.5% (95% CI 0.370-0.656) vs 28.9% (95% CI 0.131-0.419), P = 0.0041]. CONCLUSIONS Thymectomy in OMG before generalization might result in a higher rate of complete stable remission than thymectomy after generalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Li
- Department of Surgery, Competence Center of Thoracic Surgery, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Zhongmin Li
- Department of Surgery, Competence Center of Thoracic Surgery, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yanli Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gero Bauer
- Department of Surgery, Competence Center of Thoracic Surgery, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Deniz Uluk
- Department of Surgery, Competence Center of Thoracic Surgery, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Aron Elsner
- Department of Surgery, Competence Center of Thoracic Surgery, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marc Swierzy
- Department of Surgery, Competence Center of Thoracic Surgery, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mahmoud Ismail
- Department of Surgery, Competence Center of Thoracic Surgery, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Meisel
- Department of Neurology, Integrated Center for Myasthenia Gravis, NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Center for Stroke Research Berlin, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens-C Rückert
- Department of Surgery, Competence Center of Thoracic Surgery, Charité University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Fc-Receptor Targeted Therapies for the Treatment of Myasthenia gravis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115755. [PMID: 34071155 PMCID: PMC8198115 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease in which immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies (Abs) bind to acetylcholine receptors (AChR) or to functionally related molecules in the postsynaptic membrane at the neuromuscular junction. IgG crystallizable fragment (Fc)-mediated effector functions, such as antibody-dependent complement deposition, contribute to disease development and progression. Despite progress in understanding Ab-mediated disease mechanisms, immunotherapy of MG remained rather unspecific with corticosteroids and maintenance with immunosuppressants as first choice drugs for most patients. More specific therapeutic IgG Fc-based platforms that reduce serum half-life or effector functions of pathogenic MG-related Abs are currently being developed, tested in clinical trials or have recently been successfully translated into the clinic. In this review, we illustrate mechanisms of action and clinical efficacies of emerging Fc-mediated therapeutics such as neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn)-targeting agents. Furthermore, we evaluate prospects of therapies targeting classical Fc receptors that have shown promising therapeutic efficacy in other antibody-mediated conditions. Increased availability of Fc- and Fc receptor-targeting biologics might foster the development of personalized immunotherapies with the potential to induce sustained disease remission in patients with MG.
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Abstract
Introduction: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an antibody-mediated disease with diverse serology and clinical presentation. Currently, MG is managed by untargeted immunomodulatory agents. About 15% patients are refractory to these therapies. Several novel and targeted treatments are on the horizon. Rituximab, a monoclonal antibody, is reported to be highly effective with widespread oof-label usage in MG, particularly in patients with antibody against muscle-specific kinase or refractory disease. However, a recent trial showed negative results. Compared to conventional oral immunosuppressive therapies used in MG, Rituximab has several benefits. Regular hematological monitoring is not required though serious side effects can occur. Current status of Rituximab in MG and newer immunosuppressants is discussed.Areas explored: Biologic features, clinical effectiveness, safety profile, and newer preparations of Rituximab.Expert opinion: Rituximab provides a promising option for management of MG, particularly in patients with muscle-specific kinase antibodies or those with refractory disease. Several knowledge gaps remain due to scarcity of data from randomized controlled studies. Despite lack of regulatory approval Rituximab has found widespread usage in MG. Large, well-designed studies are needed to assess the comparative efficacy of Rituximab and its optimal regimen in MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaeem A Siddiqi
- Division of Neurology, Dept of Medicine, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Wasim Khan
- Division of Neurology, Dept of Medicine, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Faraz S Hussain
- Division of Neurology, Dept of Medicine, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Canada
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40
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Abstract
Discovery and characterization of serologic biomarkers has revolutionized the diagnostic framework of systemic and paraneoplastic autoimmune neuro-ophthalmic diseases. Expanding recognition of the multiple ocular and visual manifestations of these conditions highlights the important role of the referring provider in identifying potential cases. Increasing ease of access to serologic testing also enables these practitioners to initiate the diagnostic work-up in suspected cases. We aimed to provide an update on the current knowledge surrounding and use of relevant autoimmune biomarkers by correlating specific clinical neuro-ophthalmic manifestations with autoantibody biomarkers. The utility of select biomarkers for myasthenia gravis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-IgG-associated disorder, opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome, anti-collapsin-response mediator protein-5 optic neuropathy, and glial fibrillary acidic protein-IgG-associated disease are discussed with particular focus on the clinical contexts in which to consider testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devon A Cohen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston.,Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston
| | - Ryan Gise
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston.,Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston.,Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston
| | - Eric D Gaier
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston.,Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston.,Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston.,Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge
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Gilhus NE. Physical training and exercise in myasthenia gravis. Neuromuscul Disord 2021; 31:169-173. [PMID: 33461846 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2020.12.004] [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: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis is characterized by muscle weakness and fatigue. As sustained muscle use increases the weakness, the value of physical training programs has previously been questioned. This is a review to clarify the safety and usefulness of systematic training in myasthenia gravis, based on a systematic search in available databases using the relevant key words. Ten intervention studies including 159 patients with generalized disease have been published regarding the effect of systematic physical training, three of them on respiratory muscles. Muscle strength improved, and in the majority of the studies also daily function and quality of life. The feeling of fatigue not directly related to actual muscle weakness was less influenced by physical training. Continuous training was necessary to maintain the improved function. Physical training and exercise are safe in myasthenia gravis. This can improve both muscle strength and daily function. Type and intensity of systematic training should be adapted in the individual patient. A minimum of 150 min of exercise per week is recommended for myasthenia gravis patients with mild and moderate disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Norway; Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway.
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42
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Evoli A, Iorio R. Controversies in Ocular Myasthenia Gravis. Front Neurol 2020; 11:605902. [PMID: 33329368 PMCID: PMC7734350 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.605902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) with symptoms limited to eye muscles [ocular MG (OMG)] is a rare disease. OMG incidence varies according to ethnicity and age of onset. In recent years, both an increase in incidence rate, particularly in the elderly, and a lower risk for secondary generalization may have contributed to the growing disease prevalence in Western countries. OMG should be considered in patients with painless ptosis and extrinsic ophthalmoparesis. Though asymmetric muscle involvement and symptom fluctuations are typical, in some cases, OMG can mimic isolated cranial nerve paresis, internuclear ophthalmoplegia, and conjugate gaze palsy. Diagnostic confirmation can be challenging in patients negative for anti-acetylcholine receptor and anti-muscle-specific tyrosine kinase antibodies on standard radioimmunoassay. Early treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and at preventing disease progression to generalized MG. Despite the absence of high-level evidence, there is general agreement on the efficacy of steroids at low to moderate dosage; immunosuppressants are considered when steroid high maintenance doses are required. The role of thymectomy in non-thymoma patients is controversial. Prolonged exposure to immunosuppressive therapy has a negative impact on the health-related quality of life in a proportion of these patients. OMG is currently excluded from most of the treatments recently developed in generalized MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Evoli
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Iorio
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Update in immunosuppressive therapy of myasthenia gravis. Autoimmun Rev 2020; 20:102712. [PMID: 33197578 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease of the neuromuscular junction. Immunosuppressive treatments are part of the therapeutic armamentarium in MG. Long-term systemic steroid administration carry considerable risks and adverse events. Consequently, steroid-free immunosuppressive therapy is necessary to reduce the dose or discontinue steroids. First immunosuppressive drug trials in MG were performed in the mid-60s using standard and nonspecific immunosuppression. Since then, only few randomized controlled clinical trials were conducted in MG and assesed drug efficacy in terms of its steroid-sparing capacity and the ability to reduce myasthenic signs and symptoms. Treatment strategy in MG is quite challenging, mainly due to the disease heterogeneity in terms of clinical presentation, immunopathogenesis and drug response. To solve this dilemma, emerging treatment are based on biological drugs and use new targets of the immune pathway.
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Cavalcante P, Mantegazza R, Bernasconi P. Pharmacogenetic and pharmaco-miR biomarkers for tailoring and monitoring myasthenia gravis treatments. EXPERT REVIEW OF PRECISION MEDICINE AND DRUG DEVELOPMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/23808993.2020.1804865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Cavalcante
- Neurology IV Unit ‒ Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neurology IV Unit ‒ Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Pia Bernasconi
- Neurology IV Unit ‒ Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
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45
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Svahn J, Chenevier F, Bouhour F, Vial C. Miastenia e sindromi miasteniche. Neurologia 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/s1634-7072(20)44012-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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46
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Wilf-Yarkoni A, Alkalay Y, Brenner T, Karni A. High κ free light chain is a potential biomarker for double seronegative and ocular myasthenia gravis. NEUROLOGY-NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2020; 7:7/5/e831. [PMID: 32665296 PMCID: PMC7371374 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000000831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the hypothesis that free light chain (FLC) sera levels could serve as a biomarker for myasthenia gravis (MG), especially for the subgroups of seronegative MG and ocular MG. METHODS Sera from 73 patients with MG (20 seronegative for antiacetylcholine receptor [AChR] and anti-muscle-specific kinase and 53 positive for anti-AChR, which were clinically divided into 24 patients with ocular type, 45 with generalized type, and 4 with unequivocal clinical manifestation) and 49 healthy controls were studied for κ FLC and λ FLC levels with the Freelite human FLC kits. RESULTS The κ but not the λ levels of FLC were significantly increased in the patients with MG, including those with double seronegative MG and ocular MG, compared with the healthy controls. The specificity for double seronegative MG and ocular MG were both 98.0% when κ FLC was ≥25.0 mg/L. Increased κ FLC levels were not affected by the patient's sex, age at MG onset, the presence of thymic pathology, or different treatments. CONCLUSIONS Elevated serum κ FLC may serve as a biomarker for MG in suspected patients who are double seronegative and in those with only ocular manifestations when serology is inconclusive. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE This study provides Class III evidence that high κ FLC levels distinguished patients with MG, including those who were double seronegative, from healthy controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Wilf-Yarkoni
- From the Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit of the Neurology Division (A.W.-Y., A.K.), Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; Clinical Immunology Laboratory (Y.A.), Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; Laboratory of Neuroimmunology (T.B.), Department of Neurology, the Agnes Ginges Center for Human Neurogenetics, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem; Sackler Faculty of Medicine (A.K.), Tel Aviv University; and Sagol School of Neuroscience (A.K.), Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Yifat Alkalay
- From the Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit of the Neurology Division (A.W.-Y., A.K.), Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; Clinical Immunology Laboratory (Y.A.), Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; Laboratory of Neuroimmunology (T.B.), Department of Neurology, the Agnes Ginges Center for Human Neurogenetics, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem; Sackler Faculty of Medicine (A.K.), Tel Aviv University; and Sagol School of Neuroscience (A.K.), Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Talma Brenner
- From the Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit of the Neurology Division (A.W.-Y., A.K.), Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; Clinical Immunology Laboratory (Y.A.), Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; Laboratory of Neuroimmunology (T.B.), Department of Neurology, the Agnes Ginges Center for Human Neurogenetics, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem; Sackler Faculty of Medicine (A.K.), Tel Aviv University; and Sagol School of Neuroscience (A.K.), Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Arnon Karni
- From the Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit of the Neurology Division (A.W.-Y., A.K.), Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; Clinical Immunology Laboratory (Y.A.), Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; Laboratory of Neuroimmunology (T.B.), Department of Neurology, the Agnes Ginges Center for Human Neurogenetics, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem; Sackler Faculty of Medicine (A.K.), Tel Aviv University; and Sagol School of Neuroscience (A.K.), Tel Aviv University, Israel.
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Farrugia ME, Goodfellow JA. A Practical Approach to Managing Patients With Myasthenia Gravis-Opinions and a Review of the Literature. Front Neurol 2020; 11:604. [PMID: 32733360 PMCID: PMC7358547 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
When the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis (MG) has been secured, the aim of management should be prompt symptom control and the induction of remission or minimal manifestations. Symptom control, with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as pyridostigmine, is commonly employed. This may be sufficient in mild disease. There is no single universally accepted treatment regimen. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of immunosuppressive treatment in patients with more than mild MG to induce remission. Immunosuppressive therapies, such as azathioprine are prescribed in addition to but sometimes instead of corticosteroids when background comorbidities preclude or restrict the use of steroids. Rituximab has a role in refractory MG, while plasmapheresis and immunoglobulin therapy are commonly prescribed to treat MG crisis and in some cases of refractory MG. Data from the MGTX trial showed clear evidence that thymectomy is beneficial in patients with acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive generalized MG, up to the age of 65 years. Minimally invasive thymectomy surgery including robotic-assisted thymectomy surgery has further revolutionized thymectomy and the management of MG. Ocular MG is not life-threatening but can be significantly disabling when diplopia is persistent. There is evidence to support early treatment with corticosteroids when ocular motility is abnormal and fails to respond to symptomatic treatment. Treatment needs to be individualized in the older age-group depending on specific comorbidities. In the younger age-groups, particularly in women, consideration must be given to the potential teratogenicity of certain therapies. Novel therapies are being developed and trialed, including ones that inhibit complement-induced immunological pathways or interfere with antibody-recycling pathways. Fatigue is common in MG and should be duly identified from fatigable weakness and managed with a combination of physical therapy with or without psychological support. MG patients may also develop dysfunctional breathing and the necessary respiratory physiotherapy techniques need to be implemented to alleviate the patient's symptoms of dyspnoea. In this review, we discuss various facets of myasthenia management in adults with ocular and generalized disease, including some practical approaches and our personal opinions based on our experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elena Farrugia
- Neurology Department, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - John A Goodfellow
- Neurology Department, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, United Kingdom.,Neuroimmunology Laboratory, Laboratory Medicine and Facilities Building, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) is effectively treated with symptomatic and immunosuppressive drugs but a proportion of patients has a persistent disease and severe adverse events (AEs). The unmet medical needs are specific immunosuppression and AE lowering. Eculizumab blocks C5 protecting neuromuscular junction from the destructive autoantibody effects. Phase II (Study C08-001) and III (ECU-MG-301) studies, with the open-label extension (ECU-MG-302), demonstrated eculizumab efficacy and safety in refractory gMG patients. AREAS COVERED We provide an overview of eculizumab biological features, clinical efficacy, and safety in gMG patients, highlighting our perspective on the drug positioning in the MG treatment algorithm. EXPERT OPINION Eculizumab has the potential to significantly change the immunosuppressive approach in gMG offering the opportunity to avoid or delay corticosteroids' use due to its speed and selective mechanism of action. Eculizumab prescription will depend on: 1. ability to modify the natural disease course; 2. sustainability in the clinical practice (cost/effectiveness ratio); 3. drug-induced AE reduction. At present we are missing a controlled study on its use as a first-line treatment. We think that immunosuppression in MG will change significantly in the next years by adopting more focused 'Precision Medicine' approaches, and Eculizumab seems to satisfy such a promise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Mantegazza
- Neurology IV Unit ‒ Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta , Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Cavalcante
- Neurology IV Unit ‒ Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases, Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta , Milan, Italy
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Habib AA, Ahmadi Jazi G, Mozaffar T. Update on immune-mediated therapies for myasthenia gravis. Muscle Nerve 2020; 62:579-592. [PMID: 32462710 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
With the exception of thymectomy, immune modulatory treatment strategies and clinical trials in myasthenia gravis over the past 50 y were mainly borrowed from experience in other nonneurologic autoimmune disorders. The current experimental therapy paradigm has significantly changed such that treatments directed against the pathological mechanisms specific to myasthenia gravis are being tested, in some cases as the initial disease indication. Key advances have been made in three areas: (i) the expanded role and long-term benefits of thymectomy, (ii) complement inhibition to prevent antibody-mediated postsynaptic membrane damage, and (iii) neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) inhibition as in vivo apheresis, removing pathogenic antibodies. Herein, we discuss these advances and the potential for these newer therapies to significantly influence the current treatment paradigms. While these therapies provide exciting new options with rapid efficacy, there are anticipated challenges to their use, especially in terms of a dramatic increase in cost of care for some patients with myasthenia gravis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Aamer Habib
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, California
| | | | - Tahseen Mozaffar
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, California.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California, Irvine, California.,Departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California
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Anil R, Kumar A, Alaparthi S, Sharma A, Nye JL, Roy B, O'Connor KC, Nowak RJ. Exploring outcomes and characteristics of myasthenia gravis: Rationale, aims and design of registry - The EXPLORE-MG registry. J Neurol Sci 2020; 414:116830. [PMID: 32388060 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.116830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Though much information exists about the diagnosis, treatment, and epidemiology of myasthenia gravis (MG), a comprehensive data registry and biorepository is critical to better understand disease mechanisms, treatment outcomes, and the impact of treatment strategies. We aimed to design and implement the "Exploring Outcomes and Characteristics of Myasthenia Gravis (EXPLORE-MG) Registry" to address these knowledge gaps. METHODS A web-based, non-interventional, longitudinal, observational disease and outcomes registry was developed; incorporating NIH recommended common data elements for the study of MG. Individuals diagnosed with MG based on prespecified criteria were eligible to participate. The registry was further strengthened by a complementary biorepository. An interim analysis was completed on registry data collected through data-lock in 2017. RESULTS A total of 232 MG patients, followed at the Yale MG Clinic from 2011 to 2017, were enrolled, which included 2142 total visit entries. Of the 232 MG patients (mean age 60 years, range 17-99; female:male, 1.04:1), 165 were acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive, 20 were muscle-specific kinase antibody-positive, and 47 were seronegative. This cohort consisted of 64 patients with ocular disease, 168 patients with generalized disease, and 65 patients post-thymectomy, including 20 with thymoma-associated MG. CONCLUSIONS Identification of key clinical features that may predict treatment responsiveness or provide insight into patient outcomes is essential to improve patient care. As current research focuses on the development of patient-tailored, targeted-treatment regimens, this registry can help provide important clinical and epidemiological data from a large contemporary patient cohort with long-term follow-up. REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03792659.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Anil
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Aditya Kumar
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sneha Alaparthi
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Aditi Sharma
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joan L Nye
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Bhaskar Roy
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kevin C O'Connor
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Richard J Nowak
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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