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Jacob A, Shatila AO, Inshasi J, Massouh J, Mir R, Noori S, Yamout B. Disease modifying treatment guidelines for multiple sclerosis in the United Arab Emirates. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 88:105703. [PMID: 38924933 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105703] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The newly constituted National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society (NMSS)of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), set up a scientific committee to create a MS disease modifying treatment (DMT) guideline for UAE. The committee considered several unique features of the MS community in UAE including large number of expatriate population, wide variations in health insurance coverage, physician and patient preferences for DMT. The overall goal of the treatment guideline is to facilitate the most appropriate DMT to the widest number of patients. To this end it has adapted recommendations from various health systems and regulatory authorities into a pragmatic amalgamation of best practices from across the world. Importantly where data is unavailable or controversial, a common sense approach is taken rather than leave physicians and patients in limbo. The committee classifies MS into subcategories and suggests appropriate treatment choices. It recommends treatment of RIS and CIS with poor prognostic factors. It largely equates the efficacy and safety of DMT with similar mechanisms of action or drug classes e.g. ocrelizumab is similar to rituximab. It allows early switching of treatment for unambiguous disease activity and those with progression independent of relapses. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation can be offered to patients who fail one high efficacy DMT. Pragmatic guidance on switching and stopping DMT, DMT choices in pregnancy, lactation and pediatric MS have been included. It is expected that these guidelines will be updated periodically as new data becomes available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Jacob
- Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; The Walton Centre, Liverpool, United Kingdom.
| | - Ahmed Osman Shatila
- Department of Neurology, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jihad Inshasi
- Department of Neurology, Rashid Hospital and Dubai Medical College, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Joelle Massouh
- Neurology Institute and Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Harley Street Medical centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ruquia Mir
- Abu Dhabi stem Cell Clinic, United Arab Emirates
| | - Suzan Noori
- University Hospital Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Bassem Yamout
- Neurology Institute and Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Harley Street Medical centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; American University of Beirut, Lebanon
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Schimmer RR, Sutter T, Bachofner A, Ranieri E, Rodewald AK, Kremer Hovinga JA, Kimmich N, Trinchero A, Studt JD. Successful management of refractory immune-mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura during pregnancy and delivery using the anti-VWF nanobody caplacizumab. Br J Haematol 2024; 204:1994-1998. [PMID: 38168722 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.19284] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a potential trigger of acute thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). The management of pregnancy-associated immune-mediated TTP (iTTP) can be challenging, especially when it is refractory to standard treatment. Caplacizumab, a nanobody to von Willebrand factor (VWF) blocking its A1 domain, is a valuable new therapeutic option. Its use is, however, not approved during pregnancy and breastfeeding. We describe the successful off-label administration of caplacizumab during pregnancy and delivery in a patient with refractory iTTP. The favourable outcome without significant thrombotic or haemorrhagic complications indicates that caplacizumab may be an effective and safe treatment option in refractory iTTP during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman R Schimmer
- Department of Medical Oncology and Haematology, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tabea Sutter
- Department of Medical Oncology and Haematology, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Bachofner
- Department of Medical Oncology and Haematology, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Elisabetta Ranieri
- Department of Obstetrics, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ann-Kathrin Rodewald
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Pathology, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Johanna A Kremer Hovinga
- Department of Haematology and Central Haematological Laboratory, Inselspital Bern, University Hospital Bern and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nina Kimmich
- Department of Obstetrics, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alice Trinchero
- Department of Medical Oncology and Haematology, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jan-Dirk Studt
- Department of Medical Oncology and Haematology, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Hassoun HK, Hatem AO, Al-Mahdawi A, Jamal Al-Bajalan S, Kadim Karim A, Abdulrasool Al-Mashta S, Mohammed Tawfeeq S, Salih Hamad M, Sheaheed NM, Mohammed Ridha S, Al-Naqshbandi M, Al-Hamadani HA. Iraqi experts consensus on the management of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis in adults. Curr Med Res Opin 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38600842 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2024.2339938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In Iraq, a lack of evidence-based management protocols for diagnosing, treating, and managing multiple sclerosis (MS) poses risks of suboptimal outcomes and clinical practice variability and potential harm to the patients. This study aimed to develop consensus recommendations regarding the diagnosis and management of MS in Iraq, specifically focusing on treatment-naïve patients, suboptimal responders, and women of childbearing age during preconception, pregnancy planning, and lactation. A survey was conducted to collect feedback from a panel of ten key opinion leaders (KOLs), who evaluated and discussed the statements to determine agreement levels. The mini-Delphi method was employed to establish a consensus on the management recommendations, and a meeting was held to analyze the responses and ensure that the recommendations were based on current evidence and followed a consensus-driven approach. RESULTS The Revised McDonald Criteria is recommended for MS diagnosis, which includes evidence of dissemination of disease characteristics in space and time. Disease activity and progression can be monitored using relapses, MRI activity, and short-term disability progression. Experts suggest initiating treatment at diagnosis using higher efficacy medications, such as cladribine, ocrelizumab, natalizumab, or rituximab, for patients with high disease activity after careful risk stratification. Injectable interferon preparations have a tolerable risk profile but have drawbacks, such as the route and frequency of administration. Overall, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have shown efficacy in reducing relapse rates and short-term disability. CONCLUSION This article presents expert panel recommendations for managing MS in Iraq, taking into account international guidelines, medication updates, and local resources. However, practical questions remain regarding the real-world use of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). Personalizing treatment based on disease severity, prognosis, and individual risk factors while adhering to guidelines is crucial. A collaborative approach between healthcare providers and patients, considering individual preferences, is vital for achieving treatment goals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anmar Oday Hatem
- MS Clinic, Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Medical City Complex, Baghdad, Iraq
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Delgado SR, Faissner S, Linker RA, Rammohan K. Key characteristics of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies and clinical implications for multiple sclerosis treatment. J Neurol 2024; 271:1515-1535. [PMID: 37906325 PMCID: PMC10973056 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-12007-3] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
The recent success of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapies in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) has highlighted the role of B cells in the pathogenesis of MS. In people with MS, the inflammatory characteristics of B-cell activity are elevated, leading to increased pro-inflammatory cytokine release, diminished anti-inflammatory cytokine production and an accumulation of pathogenic B cells in the cerebrospinal fluid. Rituximab, ocrelizumab, ofatumumab, ublituximab and BCD-132 are anti-CD20 therapies that are either undergoing clinical development, or have been approved, for the treatment of MS. Despite CD20 being a common target for these therapies, differences have been reported in their mechanistic, pharmacological and clinical characteristics, which may have substantial clinical implications. This narrative review explores key characteristics of these therapies. By using clinical trial data and real-world evidence, we discuss their mechanisms of action, routes of administration, efficacy (in relation to B-cell kinetics), safety, tolerability and convenience of use. Clinicians, alongside patients and their families, should consider the aspects discussed in this review as part of shared decision-making discussions to improve outcomes and health-related quality of life for people living with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia R Delgado
- Department of Neurology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Simon Faissner
- Department of Neurology, Ruhr-University Bochum, St Josef-Hospital, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ralf A Linker
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kottil Rammohan
- Department of Neurology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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Witt L, Thiel S, Hellwig K. [Pregnancy and breastfeeding in women with multiple sclerosis]. DER NERVENARZT 2024; 95:329-334. [PMID: 38393359 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-024-01621-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) in women of reproductive age is associated with many uncertainties regarding childbearing and lactation. Pregnancies of MS patients are not usually considered high-risk pregnancies per se. The likelihood of pregnancy complications or adverse pregnancy outcomes is not increased by the disease; however, a careful planning of pregnancy is important in order to choose the treatment option with the greatest benefit for the mother and the least possible risk for the baby. For highly active courses of the disease, anti-CD20 antibodies, cladribine, or continued administration of natalizumab show the best data. Patients with MS can be supported in their desire to breastfeed. If women have had a very active disease course, it is recommended that treatment should be started as soon as possible postpartum. Interferon-beta preparations, glatiramer acetate and ofatumumab are also approved for use during breastfeeding but off-label breastfeeding is also possible with other monoclonal antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Witt
- Neurologische Klinik St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791, Bochum, Deutschland
| | - Sandra Thiel
- Neurologische Klinik St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791, Bochum, Deutschland
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Neurologische Klinik St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791, Bochum, Deutschland.
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Thiel S, Hellwig K. Anti-CD20 therapy in pregnancy: Balancing risks and benefits. Mult Scler 2024; 30:274-275. [PMID: 38149611 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231222125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Thiel
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Demortiere S, Maarouf A, Rico A, Boutiere C, Hilezian F, Durozard P, Pelletier J, Audoin B. Disease Evolution in Women With Highly Active MS Who Suspended Natalizumab During Pregnancy vs Rituximab/Ocrelizumab Before Conception. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2023; 10:e200161. [PMID: 37550074 PMCID: PMC10406425 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES In women with highly active multiple sclerosis (MS), suspending rituximab (RTX) for planning pregnancy is associated with low disease reactivation. Whether this strategy reduces the risk of disease reactivity as compared with suspending natalizumab (NTZ) 3 months after conception is unclear. METHODS We retrospectively included women with MS followed in our department during pregnancy and 1 year after birth who suspended NTZ at the end of the first trimester (option mostly proposed before 2016) or suspended RTX/ocrelizumab (RTX/OCR) in the year before conception (option proposed since 2016). RESULTS In women who suspended NTZ, 45 pregnancies resulted in 3 miscarriages and 42 live births, including 1 newborn with major malformations. In women who suspended RTX/OCR, 37 pregnancies resulted in 3 miscarriages and 33 live births; 1 pregnancy was terminated for malformation. During pregnancy, relapse occurred in 3/42 (7.1%) patients of the NTZ group and 1/33 (3%) of the RTX/OCR group (p = 0.6). After delivery, relapse occurred in 9/42 (21.4%) patients of the NTZ group and 0/33 of the RTX/OCR group (p < 0.01). In the NTZ group, 8/9 relapses occurred in patients who restarted NTZ less than 4 weeks after delivery. The proportion of patients with gadolinium-enhanced and/or new T2 lesions on brain or spinal cord MRI performed after delivery was higher in the NTZ than RTX/OCR group (14/40 [35%] vs 1/31 [3%] patients, p = 0.001), the proportion with EDSS score progression during the period including pregnancy and the year after delivery was higher (7/42 [17%] vs 0/33 patients, p = 0.01), and the proportion fulfilling NEDA-3 during this period was lower (21/40 [53%] vs 30/31 [97%] patients, p < 0.001). DISCUSSION Suspending RTX/OCR in the year before conception in women with highly active MS was associated with no disease reactivation during and after pregnancy. As previously reported, stopping NTZ at the end of the first trimester was associated with disease reactivation. In women receiving NTZ who are planning pregnancy, a bridge to RTX/OCR for pregnancy or continuing NTZ until week 34 are both reasonable clinical decisions. The RTX/OCR option is more comfortable for women and reduces the exposure of infants to monoclonal antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Demortiere
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Adil Maarouf
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Audrey Rico
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Clemence Boutiere
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Frederic Hilezian
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Pierre Durozard
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Jean Pelletier
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Bertrand Audoin
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France.
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Moccia M, Affinito G, Fumo MG, Giordana R, Di Gennaro M, Mercogliano M, Carotenuto A, Petracca M, Lanzillo R, Triassi M, Brescia Morra V, Palladino R. Fertility, pregnancy and childbirth in women with multiple sclerosis: a population-based study from 2018 to 2020. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2023; 94:689-697. [PMID: 37068930 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2022-330883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aim to evaluate whether fertility, pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding have been actually improving in women with multiple sclerosis (MS), compared with general population, and in relation to treatment features. METHODS We included 2018-2020 population-level healthcare data on women with MS living in the Campania region (Italy). Fertility, pregnancy and delivery outcomes were obtained from Certificate of Delivery Assistance; breastfeeding was collected up to 6 months after delivery by trained personnel. RESULTS Out of 2748 women with MS in childbearing age, 151 women delivered 156 babies. Fertility rate was 0.58 live births per woman with MS, compared with 1.29 in Campania region and 1.25 in Italy. Disease-modifying treatment (DMT) continuation during pregnancy was associated with lower birth weight (coeff -107.09; 95% CI -207.91 to -6.26; p=0.03). Exposure to DMTs with unknown/negative effects on pregnancy was associated with birth defects (OR 8.88; 95% CI 1.35 to 58.41; p=0.02). Birth defects occurred in pregnancies exposed to dimethyl fumarate (2/21 exposed pregnancies), fingolimod (1/11 exposed pregnancies) and natalizumab (2/30 exposed pregnancies). After delivery, 18.8% of women with MS were escalated of DMT efficacy, while 50.7% started on same/similar-efficacy DMTs, and 30.5% did not receive DMT. The probability of breastfeeding was higher in women who were treated with breastfeeding-safe DMTs (OR 5.57; 95% CI 1.09 to 28.55; p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS Fertility rate in women with MS remains below the general population. Family planning and subsequent DMT decisions should aim to achieve successful pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding outcomes, while controlling disease activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Moccia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Policlinico Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Affinito
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Giordana
- Campania Region Healthcare System Commissioner Office, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Di Gennaro
- Innovation and Data Analytics, Regional Healthcare Society (So.Re.Sa), Naples, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Carotenuto
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Petracca
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Lanzillo
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Policlinico Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Triassi
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Brescia Morra
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Policlinico Federico II University Hospital, Naples, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Palladino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK
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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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Collorone S, Kodali S, Toosy AT. The protective role of breastfeeding in multiple sclerosis: Latest evidence and practical considerations. Front Neurol 2023; 13:1090133. [PMID: 36761920 PMCID: PMC9902945 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1090133] [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] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The immunoprotective role of pregnancy in multiple sclerosis (MS) has been known for decades. Conversely, there has been rich debate on the topic of breastfeeding and disease activity in MS. In clinical practice, women are often offered to restart their disease-modifying drug (DMD) soon after delivery to maintain their relapse risk protection. Limited available information about peri-partum DMD safety can discourage women to choose breastfeeding, despite the World Health Organization's recommendation to breastfeed children for the first 6 months of life exclusively. New evidence is emerging about the protective role of exclusive breastfeeding on relapse rate. Research studies shed light on the hormonal and immunological mechanisms driving the risk of relapses during pregnancy and postpartum. Finally, case reports, real-world data, and clinical trials are increasing our knowledge of the safety of DMDs for the fetus and infant. While some DMDs must be avoided, others may be considered in highly active pregnant or lactating women with MS. This mini-review conveys recent evidence regarding the protective role of exclusive breastfeeding in MS and offers clinicians practical considerations for a patient-tailored approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Collorone
- NMR Research Unit, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square MS Centre, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Srikirti Kodali
- NMR Research Unit, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square MS Centre, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ahmed T Toosy
- NMR Research Unit, Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square MS Centre, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Iyer P, Dobson R. Multiple Sclerosis in Pregnancy: A Commentary on Disease Modification and Symptomatic Drug Therapies. Neurol Ther 2022; 12:1-10. [PMID: 36443593 PMCID: PMC9837363 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-022-00421-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently affects women of childbearing age, and an increasing number of disease-modifying therapies are available. However, a consequence of this is that women and clinicians face complex shared decisions surrounding disease-modifying therapy use in pregnancy and postpartum. It has been suggested that there are both knowledge and communication gaps that need to be addressed in order to improve outcomes for women with MS desiring a pregnancy. Existing pregnancy studies are subject to limitations including selection bias and missing data; however, when these are combined with clinical expertise, consensus guidelines can be developed and used as a framework to support this complex decision-making process. This commentary paper aims to provide a practical and evidence-based overview of the safety of disease-modifying therapies and symptomatic drug therapies during pregnancy and breastfeeding, along with highlighting where insufficient data exist to guide practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Iyer
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ UK
| | - Ruth Dobson
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK. .,Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, London, UK.
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12
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Heckmann JM. A single low-dose rituximab infusion in severe chronic refractory myasthenia gravis in resource-limited settings. J Neurol Sci 2022; 442:120394. [PMID: 36057244 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120394] [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: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The benefits of multi-dose rituximab cycles in patients with refractory anti-muscle-specific kinase antibody myasthenia gravis (MuSK+MG) are well reported, although less consistently in anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody MG (AChR+MG). Responsivity data to single low-dose rituximab infusions for refractory autoimmune myasthenia, are limited. Here, observational outcomes using MG grading scores and prednisone doses, before and after at least six months of a single-dose infusion of rituximab, were audited in previously treatment-refractory MG patients in a resource-limited setting. Seventeen moderately-severe to severely symptomatic MG patients received single low-dose rituximab infusions (median 500-600 mg) after a median MG duration of 6 years; 13 individuals responded including 5/5 MuSK+MG, 7/10 AChR+MG and 1/2 double seronegative MG. Three (60%) MuSK+MG and three (30%) AChR+MG achieved persistent asymptomatic status. Although more MuSK+MG vs AChR+MG cases stopped prednisone (80% vs 20%, respectively), the prednisone doses in the AChR+MG group was significantly reduced ≥30% (p = 0.008) due to improved MG composite scores (p = 0.016) and with durable benefit (median 12 months). There were no differences between responders and non-responders in MG duration and age at infusion. These results suggest that a single low-dose rituximab infusion is worth trying in refractory MG, including AChR+MG patients, as some patients showed good and durable responses. These results are particularly relevant to resource-limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannine M Heckmann
- Neurology Division, Department of Medicine, Health Sciences Faculty, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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