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Seyedmirzaei H, Salabat D, KamaliZonouzi S, Teixeira AL, Rezaei N. Risk of MS relapse and deterioration after COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 83:105472. [PMID: 38316078 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105472] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Upper respiratory viral infections have long been considered triggers for multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse and exacerbation. The possible effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on MS relapse and deterioration remain controversial. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases to find relevant studies assessing changes in relapse rates or Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) following COVID-19 in people with MS. Meta-analyses were performed, and to investigate sources of heterogeneity, subgroup analysis, meta-regression, and sensitivity analysis were conducted. RESULTS We included 14 studies in our systematic review and meta-analysis. The meta-analysis demonstrated that COVID-19 was not associated with a rise in relapse rate (risk ratio (RR): 0.97, 95 % confidence interval (CI): 0.67, 1.41, p-value: 0.87) or a rise in EDSS (standardized mean difference (SMD): -0.09, 95 % CI: -0.22, 0.03, p-value: 0.13). The analysis of EDSS changes indicated a significant heterogeneity (I2: 55 %, p-value: 0.01). Other analyses were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 infection was not associated with an increased risk of relapse and clinical deterioration in people with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Homa Seyedmirzaei
- Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Research Program (INRP), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Dorsa Salabat
- Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara KamaliZonouzi
- Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Antônio L Teixeira
- Neuropsychiatry Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Affinito G, Trama U, Palumbo L, Fumo MG, Giordana R, Di Gennaro M, Triassi M, Lanzillo R, Morra VB, Palladino R, Moccia M. Impact of COVID-19 and system recovery in delivering healthcare to people with multiple sclerosis: a population-based Study. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:3771-3779. [PMID: 37672178 PMCID: PMC10570189 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-07052-9] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 pandemic has affected the management of multiple sclerosis (MS). OBJECTIVE To explore the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare delivery to people with MS and the subsequent recovery of the system. METHODS In this population-based study in the Campania Region (Italy), we included people with MS across pre-COVID-19, lockdown, pre-vaccination, and vaccination periods. Differences in continuous outcomes between periods were explored using linear mixed models (annualized hospitalization rate (AHR) and adherence measured as medication possession ratio (MPR)). Differences in disease-modifying treatment (DMT) prescription rates (first DMT prescription, any DMT switch, switch from platform to highly effective DMT, and combination of first DMT prescription and any DMT switch) were assessed using an interrupted time series design. RESULTS Compared with pre-COVID-19, AHR decreased during the lockdown (Coeff = 0.64;95%CI = -0.69, -0.59; p < 0.01), and remained lower during pre-vaccination and vaccination periods. Adherence decreased during pre-vaccination (Coeff = -0.04;95%CI = -0.05, -0.03; p < 0.01) and vaccination periods (Coeff = -0.07;95%CI = -0.08, -0.07; p < 0.01). After the lockdown, there was an increase in any DMT switch (IRR 2.05 95%CI 1.38,3.05; p < 0.01), in switch from platform to highly effective DMTs (IRR 4.45;95%CI 2.48,8.26; p < 0.01) and in first DMT prescriptions (IRR 2.48;95%CI 1.64,3.74; p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS DMT prescriptions quickly returned to pre-pandemic levels, reflecting good health system recovery. However, adherence has remained lower than the past, as from suboptimal care. Assessing long-term COVID-19 impact on MS healthcare is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Affinito
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Ugo Trama
- Drug Policy and Devices Unit, Regione Campania Health Department, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Palumbo
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Maria Triassi
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Lanzillo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Policlinico Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Brescia Morra
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Policlinico Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Palladino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK.
| | - Marcello Moccia
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Policlinico Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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Gombolay G, Hallman-Cooper J. COVID-19 and the Pandemic-Related Aspects in Pediatric Demyelinating Disorders. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2023; 46:101055. [PMID: 37451752 PMCID: PMC10169322 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2023.101055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), also known as Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) infection, has been associated with several neurological symptoms, including acute demyelinating syndromes (ADS). There is a growing body of literature discussing COVID-19 and demyelinating conditions in adults; however, there is less published about COVID-19 demyelinating conditions in the pediatric population. This review aims to discuss the impact of COVID-19 in pediatric patients with central nervous system ADS (cADS) and chronic demyelinating conditions. We reviewed PubMed, Google Scholar, and Medline for articles published between December 1, 2019 and October 25, 2022 related to COVID-19 and pediatric demyelinating conditions. Of 56 articles reviewed, 20 cases of initial presentation of ADS associated with COVID-19 were described. The most commonly described cADS associated with COVID-19 infection in children was Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis followed by Transverse Myelitis. Cases of Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody Disease, Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder, and Multiple Sclerosis are also described. The risk of severe COVID-19 in pediatric patients with demyelinating conditions appears low, including in patients on disease modifying therapies, but studies are limited. The pandemic did affect disease modifying therapies in ADS, whether related to changes in prescriber practice or access to medications. COVID-19 is associated with ADS in children and the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted pediatric patients with demyelinating conditions in various ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Gombolay
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA.
| | - Jamika Hallman-Cooper
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
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Gnavi R, Eboli I, Alboini PE, D'Alfonso S, Picariello R, Costa G, Leone M. COVID-19 and Health Outcomes in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Population-Based Study in Italy. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13051089. [PMID: 37240734 DOI: 10.3390/life13051089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
People with multiple sclerosis (PWMS) are at high risk of being affected by the disruption of health services that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic months. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the pandemic on the health outcomes of PWMS. PWMS and MS-free residing in Piedmont (north-west of Italy) were identified from electronic health records and linked with the regional COVID-19 database, the hospital-discharge database, and the population registry. Both cohorts (9333 PWMS and 4,145,856 MS-free persons) were followed-up for access to swab testing, hospitalisation, access to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and death from 22 February 2020 to 30 April 2021. The relationship between the outcomes and MS was evaluated using a logistic model, which was adjusted for potential confounders. The rate of swab testing was higher in PWMS, but the positivity to infection was similar to that of MS-free subjects. PWMS had a higher risk of hospitalisation (OR = 1.74; 95% IC, 1.41-2.14), admission to ICU (OR = 1.79; 95% IC, 1.17-2.72), and a slight, albeit not statistically significant, increase in mortality (OR = 1.28; 95% IC, 0.79-2.06). Compared to the general population PWMS with COVID-19 had an increased risk of hospitalization and admission to the ICU; the mortality rate did not differ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Gnavi
- Epidemiology Unit, ASL TO3 Regione Piemonte, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Ilenia Eboli
- Epidemiology Unit, ASL TO3 Regione Piemonte, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Paolo Emilio Alboini
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Sandra D'Alfonso
- Department of Health Sciences, and CAAD, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Costa
- Epidemiology Unit, ASL TO3 Regione Piemonte, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
- Department of Biological and Clinical Sciences, University of Turin, 10128 Torino, Italy
| | - Maurizio Leone
- Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
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Correia H, Martin-Lynch P, Finlayson M, Learmonth YC. Exploring COVID-19 experiences for persons with multiple sclerosis and carers: An Australian qualitative study. Health Expect 2023; 26:785-794. [PMID: 36639883 PMCID: PMC10010087 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13704] [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: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact communities around the world. In this study, we explored the COVID-19 experiences of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) and carers. METHODS Using a qualitative approach, interviews were undertaken with 27 participants residing in Australia (10 persons with MS, 10 carers and 7 MS service providers). Demographic and background data were also collected. Interviews were analysed using an inductive iterative thematic analysis. RESULTS Across all groups, participants consistently recognized pandemic challenges and impacts for persons with MS and carers, especially due to disruption to routines and services. Emotional and mental health impacts were also highlighted, as anxiety, fear of contracting COVID-19 and stress, including relationship stress between persons with MS and carers and family members. Some persons with MS also mentioned physical health impacts, while for carers, the challenge of disruptions included increased demands and reduced resources. In addition to acknowledging challenges, persons with MS and carers also gave examples of resilience. This included coping and adapting by finding new routines and creating space through rest and breaks and through appreciating positives including the benefits of access to telehealth. CONCLUSION Additional support is required for persons with MS and carers in navigating the impacts of COVID-19 as the pandemic progresses. In addition to addressing challenges and disruptions, such support should also acknowledge and support the resilience of people with MS and carers and enhance resilience through supporting strategies for coping and adaptation. PATIENT AND PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Service user stakeholders were consulted at the beginning and end of the study. They provided feedback on interview questions and participant engagement, as well as service user perspectives on the themes identified in the current study. Participants were provided with summaries of key themes identified and invited to provide comments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Correia
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia.,Psychological Sciences, Australian College of Applied Professions, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Pamela Martin-Lynch
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Marcia Finlayson
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yvonne C Learmonth
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, and Centre for Healthy Aging, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia.,Discipline of Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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Peeters G, Van Remoortel A, Nagels G, Van Schependom J, D'haeseleer M. Occurrence and Severity of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Are Associated With Clinical Disability Worsening in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2023; 10:10/3/e200089. [PMID: 36807080 PMCID: PMC9942531 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Large-scale observational studies have shown that, in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), the risk of becoming more severely ill from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is determined by older age, male sex, cardiovascular comorbidities, African American ethnicity, progressive disease, recent use of corticosteroids, and B cell-depleting disease-modifying treatment. In contrast, the effect of COVID-19 on the disease course of MS has been studied much less extensively. Our main goal was to explore whether COVID-19 is associated with accelerated clinical disability worsening in patients with MS. METHODS Since March 2020, demographics and infectious outcome (categorized as ambulatory, hospitalized, and/or death) of patients with MS who developed COVID-19 have been collected at the Belgian National MS Center in Melsbroek. On February 28, 2022, this database was locked and complemented with clinical disability measures-Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Timed 25-Foot Walk Test (T25FWT), 9-Hole Peg Test (9HPT), and Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT)-that were available from a larger local database, obtained during routine medical follow-up. For each parameter, the first 2 assessments before COVID-19 diagnosis (T0 and T1; T1 is the closest to COVID-19 diagnosis), and the first thereafter (T2), were retrieved. RESULTS We identified 234 unique cases of COVID-19. Thirty-one patients were hospitalized (13.2%), and 5 died (2.1%) as a result of their infection. Among survivors with complete EDSS results (N = 138), mean annualized T1-to-T2 EDSS worsening was more pronounced, compared with the respective change between T0 and T1 (0.3 ± 0.9 vs 0.1 ± 0.9, p = 0.012). No such differences were found for the T25FWT, 9HPT, and SDMT scores. Severe COVID-19 (hospitalization) was associated with clinically relevant T1-to-T2 EDSS worsening (OR 2.65, p = 0.042). Vaccination coverage in the total cohort was 53.8%. Being unprotected by vaccination at the time of infection was associated with a worse COVID-19 outcome (hospitalization and/or death; OR 3.52, p = 0.002) but not with clinically relevant T1-to-T2 EDSS worsening. DISCUSSION The occurrence and severity of COVID-19 are both associated with clinical disability worsening in patients with MS. Vaccination protects against a more severe course of COVID-19 in this specific population. TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION The study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (study registration number: NCT05403463).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Miguel D'haeseleer
- From the Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel) (G.P., G.N., M.D.), Department of Neurology, Belgium; Nationaal Multiple Sclerose Centrum (NMSC) (G.P., A.V.R., M.D.), Melsbroek, Belgium; Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) (G.N., J.V.S., M.D.), Center for Neurosciences (C4N), NEUR and AIMS, Brussels, Belgium; Icometrix (G.N.), Leuven, Belgium; and Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) (J.V.S.), Department of Electronics and Informatics (ETRO), Belgium.
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Jonsdottir J, Santoyo-Medina C, Kahraman T, Kalron A, Rasova K, Moumdjian L, Coote S, Tacchino A, Grange E, Smedal T, Arntzen EC, Learmonth Y, Pedulla L, Quinn G, Kos D. Changes in physiotherapy services and use of technology for people with multiple sclerosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 71:104520. [PMID: 36724646 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104520] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has led to reorganization or reduction of neurorehabilitation services for people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). The aim of this study was to explore the changes in the organizational framework and technology usage in physiotherapy services for PwMS during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS This international cross-sectional survey study was designed, developed, and disseminated by RIMS European Network for Best Practice and Research in Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation. Physiotherapists from nine countries (Australia, Belgium, Czech Republic, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Norway, Spain, Turkey) who provided physiotherapy services to PwMS, were invited to complete an online survey to compare physiotherapy delivery to PwMS prior to and during the pandemic period. RESULTS The survey was completed by 215 physiotherapists. Accessibility, the average number, length and perceived effectiveness of physiotherapy sessions provided to PwMS were significantly reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic (p=0.001). Physiotherapists increased the advice of mobile apps, recorded videos for rehabilitation and exercise websites during the pandemic (p<0.001) while the use of telerehabilitation and virtual reality technology did not change. CONCLUSION There was of a reduction in the number, duration and perceived effectiveness of rehabilitation sessions for people with multiple sclerosis during the COVID-19 pandemic while use of remote technologies for physiotherapy did not change. To ensure the continuity of physiotherapy for PwMS with complex healthcare needs also during pandemics, the provision of guidelines and training in telehealth technologies in professional education becomes crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carme Santoyo-Medina
- Neurology-Neuroimmunology Department & Neurorehabilitation Unit, Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, C/ Josep Trueta sn, 08195 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Turhan Kahraman
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Alon Kalron
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Israel; Multiple Sclerosis Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Kamila Rasova
- Department of Rehabilitation, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lousin Moumdjian
- UMSC Hasselt, Pelt, Belgium; REVAL Rehabilitation Research Center, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium; IPEM Institute of Psychoacoustics and Electronic Music, Faculty of Arts and Philosophy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Susan Coote
- Centre of Physical Activity for Health, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; Multiple Sclerosis Society of Ireland and Physical Activity for Health Research Centre, Ireland.
| | - Andrea Tacchino
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (FISM), Genova, Italy.
| | - Erica Grange
- CRRF "Mons. L. Novarese", Moncrivello (VC), Italy
| | - Tori Smedal
- Department of Physiotherapy, Haukeland University Hospital, Helse Bergen, Bergen, Norway,; Department of Neurology, Multiple Sclerosis Competence Centre, Haukeland University Hospital, Helse Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | | | - Yvonne Learmonth
- Discipline of Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Centre for Healthy Ageing, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia; Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Australia.
| | - Ludovico Pedulla
- Scientific Research Area, Italian Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (FISM), Genoa, Italy.
| | - Gillian Quinn
- Physiotherapy Department, St. James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daphne Kos
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven 1501-3001, Belgium; National MS Center, Melsbroek, Belgium.
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Palmer LC, Neal WN, Motl RW, Backus D. The Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown Restrictions on Exercise Behavior Among People With Multiple Sclerosis Enrolled in an Exercise Trial: Qualitative Interview Study. JMIR Rehabil Assist Technol 2022; 9:e42157. [DOI: 10.2196/42157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
During spring and summer 2020, US states implemented COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, resulting in the closure of rehabilitation facilities and, with them, some of the clinical trials that were taking place. One such trial was the Supervised Versus Telerehabilitation Exercise Program for Multiple Sclerosis (“STEP for MS”) comparative effectiveness multiple sclerosis (MS) exercise trial. Although 1 study arm was implemented via telerehabilitation, the comparative arm took place in rehabilitation facilities nationwide and was subsequently closed during this time frame. The experience of the STEP for MS participants provides insights into the impact of lockdown restrictions on exercise behavior by mode of exercise delivery (telerehabilitation vs conventional facility based).
Objective
This study sought to understand the impact of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on exercise behavior among people with MS enrolled in an exercise trial at the time of the restrictions.
Methods
Semistructured phone and video interviews were conducted with a convenience sample of 8 participants representing both arms of the exercise trial. We applied reflexive thematic analysis to identify, analyze, and interpret common themes in the data.
Results
We identified 7 main themes and 2 different narratives describing the exercise experiences during lockdown restrictions. Although the telerehabilitation participants continued exercising without interruption, facility-based participants experienced a range of barriers that impeded their ability to exercise. In particular, the loss of perceived social support gained from exercising in a facility with exercise coaches and other people with MS eroded both the accountability and motivation to exercise. Aerobic exercises via walking were the most impacted, with participants pointing to the need for at-home treadmills.
Conclusions
The unprecedented disruption of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in spring and summer 2020 impacted the ability of facility-based STEP for MS exercise trial participants to exercise in adherence to the intervention protocol. By contrast, the participants in the telerehabilitation-delivered exercise arm continued exercising without interruption and reported positive impacts of the intervention during this time. Telerehabilitation exercise programs may hold promise for overcoming barriers to exercise for people with MS during COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, and potentially other lockdown scenarios, if the participation in telerehabilitation has already been established.
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COVID-19 pandemic and the international classification of functioning in multiple system atrophy: a cross-sectional, nationwide survey in Japan. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14163. [PMID: 35986084 PMCID: PMC9389480 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18533-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe present study aimed to determine the magnitude of and risk factors for the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the international classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF) in patients with multiple system atrophy (PwMSA). The study was part of a cross-sectional, nationwide, multipurpose mail survey for Japanese PwMSA from October to December, 2020. The primary outcome was the impact of the early COVID-19 pandemic on ICF functioning, consisting of body function, activity, and participation. Age, sex, disease type, disease duration, and dwelling place were asked as participants’ characteristics, and the multiple system impairment questionnaire (MSIQ), patient health questionnaire-2, modified rankin scale, barthel index, life-space assessment (LSA), and EuroQoL were examined. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for a worse function score due to the COVID-19 pandemic for each ICF functioning domain. A total of 155 patients (mean age 65.6 [SD 8.1] years; 43.9% women; mean disease duration 8.0 [SD 6.2] years; 65% MSA with cerebellar ataxia, 13% MSA with parkinsonism, 9% MSA with predominant autonomic features) were analyzed. Of the ICF functioning domains, the respondents reported that the early COVID-19 pandemic affected body function in 17.4%, activity in 17.6%, and participation in 46.0%. The adjusted multivariate model identified MSIQ and LSA as the two variables that independently contributed to all domains. The COVID-19 pandemic affected ICF functioning of PwMSA in Japan, and the severity of disease-related impairments and a large daily living space were common risk factors. These results help support the focus on patient characteristics for medical and social welfare support.
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Chiavi D, Haag C, Chan A, Kamm CP, Sieber C, Stanikić M, Rodgers S, Pot C, Kesselring J, Salmen A, Rapold I, Calabrese P, Manjaly ZM, Gobbi C, Zecca C, Walther S, Stegmayer K, Hoepner R, Puhan M, von Wyl V. Studying Real-World Experiences of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis during the first Covid-19 Lockdown: An Application of Natural Language Processing (Preprint). JMIR Med Inform 2022; 10:e37945. [DOI: 10.2196/37945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Chen MH, Goverover Y, Botticello A, DeLuca J, Genova HM. Healthcare disruptions and use of telehealth services among persons with multiple sclerosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2022; 103:1379-1386. [PMID: 35093328 PMCID: PMC8801263 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2021.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective The current study examined health care disruptions and use of telehealth services among people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design Cross-sectional survey. Setting General community. Participants Participants (N=163) included 70 pwMS and 93 healthy controls (HCs). The majority of respondents were from the United States (88%). Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Rates of health care disruptions (eg, missing/canceling appointments, experiencing delays) and telehealth use for MS and non-MS medical care and mental health care. Results In this U.S. majority, predominantly White, and high socioeconomic status sample, 38% to 50% of pwMS reported experiencing disruptions in their MS and non-MS medical care and 20% to 33% reported disruptions in their mental health care; this was significantly lower than the rates observed among HCs. Compared with HCs, pwMS were more likely to use telehealth than in-person services, especially for mental health care. The majority of pwMS and HCs reported being satisfied with telehealth services. Individuals with higher degrees of functional limitation experienced more health care disruptions and were more likely to use telehealth services than individuals with lower degrees of functional limitation. Conclusions Despite high health care disruption rates, pwMS frequently used and were highly satisfied with telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to physical limitations commonly observed in the MS population that may preclude travel, telehealth services should be continued even after resolution of the pandemic to expand access and reduce health care disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle H Chen
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ; Department of Neurology, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
| | - Yael Goverover
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York University, NY
| | - Amanda Botticello
- Kessler Foundation, East Hanover, NJ; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ
| | - John DeLuca
- Kessler Foundation, East Hanover, NJ; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ
| | - Helen M Genova
- Kessler Foundation, East Hanover, NJ; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ.
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Habek M, Jakob Brecl G, Bašić Kes V, Rogić D, Barun B, Gabelić T, Emeršič A, Horvat Ledinek A, Grbić N, Lapić I, Šegulja D, Đurić K, Adamec I, Krbot Skorić M. Humoral immune response in convalescent COVID-19 people with multiple sclerosis treated with high-efficacy disease-modifying therapies: A multicenter, case-control study. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 359:577696. [PMID: 34418815 PMCID: PMC8366037 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Aim To determine the influence of high-efficacy disease modifying therapy (DMT) on the development of IgG SARS-CoV-2 antibody response in COVID-19 convalescent people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Methods Seventy-four pwMS taking high-efficacy DMTs (specifically natalizumab, fingolimod, alemtuzumab, ocrelizumab, cladribine and ublituximab) and diagnosed with COVID-19 and 44 healthy persons (HC) were enrolled. SARS-CoV2 antibodies were tested with Elecsys® Anti-SARSCoV-2 S assay. Results pwMS taking high-efficacy DMTs had a significantly higher chance of having negative titer of SARS-CoV2 antibodies compared to healthy controls (33 negative pwMS [44.6%] compared to one negative HC [2.3%], p < 0.001). pwMS taking B-cell depleting therapy (ocrelizumab and ublituximab) had a significantly higher chance of having negative titer of SARS-CoV2 antibodies compared to pwMS on all other DMTs (29 negative pwMS on B-cell therapy [64.4%] compared to four negative pwMS on all other DMTs [13.8%], p < 0.001). Out of other DMTs, two (33.3%) pwMS taking fingolimod and two (16.7%) pwMS taking cladribine failed to develop IgG SARS-COV-2 antibodies. B-cell depleting therapy independently predicted negative titer of IgG SARS-CoV-2 antibody (Exp[B] =0.014, 95%CI 0.002–0.110, p < 0.001). Conclusions A significant proportion of convalescent COVID-19 pwMS on high-efficacy DMTs will not develop IgG SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. B-cell depleting therapies independently predict negative and low titer of IgG SARS-CoV-2 antibody.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Habek
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia; School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Gregor Jakob Brecl
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Vanja Bašić Kes
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center "Sestre Milosrdnice", Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dunja Rogić
- Clinical Institute for Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Barbara Barun
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia; School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tereza Gabelić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia; School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Andreja Emeršič
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | | | - Nevena Grbić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center "Sestre Milosrdnice", Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivana Lapić
- Clinical Institute for Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Dragana Šegulja
- Clinical Institute for Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Koraljka Đurić
- Department for Laboratory Diagnostics, Special Hospital AGRAM, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ivan Adamec
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Magdalena Krbot Skorić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia; Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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The safety and efficacy of modifying the admission protocol to the epilepsy monitoring unit in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 122:108229. [PMID: 34364025 PMCID: PMC8302842 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted admission to epilepsy monitoring units (EMUs) for classification and presurgical evaluation of patients with refractory epilepsy. We modified the EMU admission protocol via anti-seizure medications (ASM) withdrawal implemented one day before admission; thus, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this modified protocol. METHODS In January 2021, we initiated ASM tapering 24 h before-rather than on the first day after-EMU admission, contrasting with the previous protocol. We retrospectively reviewed EMU admissions between January and April of 2018, 2019, and 2021, and identified the time required to record the first seizure, and EMU yield to confirm or change the epilepsy classification. We also evaluated the safety of the modified protocol, by monitoring the seizure frequency for up to 5 months after the discharge from the hospital. RESULTS One hundred four patients were included (mean age: 30 years, men: 43%); excluding a longer disease duration and abundance of normal routine electro-encephalogram (EEG) in patients admitted before the pandemic, no differences were observed in patients' characteristics. On average, it took 41 h and 21 h to record the first seizure using the standard and modified protocols, respectively (p < 0.001, 95% CI: 10-30). Other characteristics were investigated both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and epilepsy classifications were confirmed twice using the modified protocol (OR = 2.4, p = 0.04, 95% CI: 1.1-5.5). Multivariate regression analysis confirmed the shorter time to record the first seizure using the modified admission protocol (23 h less, p < 0.001; 95% CI: 12-34). Finally, 36 (86%) patients admitted during the pandemic exhibited no increase in seizure frequency after the discharge from the hospital. CONCLUSIONS Initiating ASM withdrawal one day before EMU admission was deemed to be an efficient and safe way to confirm epilepsy classification and significantly decrease the length of hospital stay. Ultimately, this will shorten the long waiting list for EMU admission created by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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