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Comi G, Dalla Costa G, Stankoff B, Hartung HP, Soelberg Sørensen P, Vermersch P, Leocani L. Assessing disease progression and treatment response in progressive multiple sclerosis. Nat Rev Neurol 2024; 20:573-586. [PMID: 39251843 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-024-01006-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Progressive multiple sclerosis poses a considerable challenge in the evaluation of disease progression and treatment response owing to its multifaceted pathophysiology. Traditional clinical measures such as the Expanded Disability Status Scale are limited in capturing the full scope of disease and treatment effects. Advanced imaging techniques, including MRI and PET scans, have emerged as valuable tools for the assessment of neurodegenerative processes, including the respective role of adaptive and innate immunity, detailed insights into brain and spinal cord atrophy, lesion dynamics and grey matter damage. The potential of cerebrospinal fluid and blood biomarkers is increasingly recognized, with neurofilament light chain levels being a notable indicator of neuro-axonal damage. Moreover, patient-reported outcomes are crucial for reflecting the subjective experience of disease progression and treatment efficacy, covering aspects such as fatigue, cognitive function and overall quality of life. The future incorporation of digital technologies and wearable devices in research and clinical practice promises to enhance our understanding of functional impairments and disease progression. This Review offers a comprehensive examination of these diverse evaluation tools, highlighting their combined use in accurately assessing disease progression and treatment efficacy in progressive multiple sclerosis, thereby guiding more effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Comi
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Bruno Stankoff
- Sorbonne Université, Paris Brain Institute, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Hans-Peter Hartung
- Brain and Mind Center, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Palacky University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Per Soelberg Sørensen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Patrick Vermersch
- University of Lille, Inserm U1172, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Fédération Hospitalo-Universitaire Precision Medicine in Psychiatry, Lille, France
| | - Letizia Leocani
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy
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Bardel B, Ayache SS, Lefaucheur JP. The contribution of EEG to assess and treat motor disorders in multiple sclerosis. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 162:174-200. [PMID: 38643612 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.03.024] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Electroencephalography (EEG) can highlight significant changes in spontaneous electrical activity of the brain produced by altered brain network connectivity linked to inflammatory demyelinating lesions and neuronal loss occurring in multiple sclerosis (MS). In this review, we describe the main EEG findings reported in the literature to characterize motor network alteration in term of local activity or functional connectivity changes in patients with MS (pwMS). METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted to include articles with quantitative analyses of resting-state EEG recordings (spectrograms or advanced methods for assessing spatial and temporal dynamics, such as coherence, theory of graphs, recurrent quantification, microstates) or dynamic EEG recordings during a motor task, with or without connectivity analyses. RESULTS In this systematic review, we identified 26 original articles using EEG in the evaluation of MS-related motor disorders. Various resting or dynamic EEG parameters could serve as diagnostic biomarkers of motor control impairment to differentiate pwMS from healthy subjects or be related to a specific clinical condition (fatigue) or neuroradiological aspects (lesion load). CONCLUSIONS We highlight some key EEG patterns in pwMS at rest and during movement, both suggesting an alteration or disruption of brain connectivity, more specifically involving sensorimotor networks. SIGNIFICANCE Some of these EEG biomarkers of motor disturbance could be used to design future therapeutic strategies in MS based on neuromodulation approaches, or to predict the effects of motor training and rehabilitation in pwMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Bardel
- Univ Paris Est Creteil, Excitabilité Nerveuse et Thérapeutique (ENT), EA 4391, F-94010 Creteil, France; AP-HP, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, DMU FIxIT, F-94010 Creteil, France
| | - Samar S Ayache
- Univ Paris Est Creteil, Excitabilité Nerveuse et Thérapeutique (ENT), EA 4391, F-94010 Creteil, France; AP-HP, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, DMU FIxIT, F-94010 Creteil, France; Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, 4504 Byblos, Lebanon; Institut de la Colonne Vertébrale et des NeuroSciences (ICVNS), Centre Médico-Chirurgical Bizet, F-75116 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Pascal Lefaucheur
- Univ Paris Est Creteil, Excitabilité Nerveuse et Thérapeutique (ENT), EA 4391, F-94010 Creteil, France; AP-HP, Henri Mondor University Hospital, Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, DMU FIxIT, F-94010 Creteil, France.
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Vecchio D, Barbero P, Galli G, Virgilio E, Naldi P, Comi C, Cantello R. Prognostic Role of Visual Evoked Potentials in Non-Neuritic Eyes at Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12062382. [PMID: 36983382 PMCID: PMC10058458 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12062382] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: This study aimed to assess the prognostic role of visual evoked potentials (VEPs) of the non-neuritic eye at the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Patients and methods: We enrolled 181 MS patients (62% females, mean age at diagnosis: 38 years, standard deviation: 12) at the time of the first diagnostic work-up, including VEPs. We collected P100 latency and N75-P100 amplitude of non-neuritic eyes at diagnosis, and then we calculated the mean values in 127 patients with no history of optic neuritis (ON) or considered the unaffected eye in the remaining. At last follow-up (minimum: one year), disability was evaluated according to MS Severity Score or MSSS (median: 2.44, range: 0.18-9.63). Statistical analysis included Mann-Whitney descriptive analysis, Spearman correlation for independent samples, and linear regression for significant predictors of MSSS. Results: 38/181 patients had P100 latency >115 ms, and 63/181 showed N75-P100 amplitude < 5 microV in the unaffected eyes at MS diagnosis. At last follow-up, MSSS correlated with P100 latency (rho = 0.21, p = 0.004) and N75-P100 amplitude (rho = 0.19, p = 0.009) collected at diagnosis. P100 latency (not N75-P100 amplitude) resulted in a predictor for disability over time (MSSS) in the regression model (along with age at onset, MS course, and disease-modifying treatments). Conclusions: Our study showed a prognostic value of VEPs in clinically unaffected eyes at MS diagnosis to predict future disability, independently from a history of ON.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domizia Vecchio
- Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Paolo Barbero
- Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Giulia Galli
- Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Eleonora Virgilio
- Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Phd Program in Medical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Paola Naldi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Cristoforo Comi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Roberto Cantello
- Neurology Unit, Department of Translational Medicine, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases (IRCAD), Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, Corso Mazzini 18, 28100 Novara, Italy
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Hamann J, Ettrich B, Hoffman KT, Then Bergh F, Lobsien D. Somatosensory evoked potentials and their relation to microstructural damage in patients with multiple sclerosis—A whole brain DTI study. Front Neurol 2022; 13:890841. [PMID: 36105776 PMCID: PMC9465089 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.890841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) play a pivotal role in the diagnosis and disease monitoring of multiple sclerosis (MS). Delayed latencies are a surrogate for demyelination along the sensory afference. This study aimed to evaluate if SSEP latencies are representative of demyelination of the brain overall, by correlating with cerebral microstructural integrity as measured by Magnetic resonance (MR) diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Analysis was performed in a hypothesis-free whole brain approach using tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS). Material and methods A total of 46 patients with MS or clinically isolated syndrome were included in the study. Bilateral SSEPs of the median nerve measuring mean N20 latencies (mN20) and Central Conduction Time (CCT), were acquired. MRI scans were performed at 3T. DTI acquisition was done with a single-shot echoplanar imaging technique with 80 diffusion directions. The FSL software package was used to process the DTI datasets and to calculate maps of fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial diffusivity (RD). These maps were then further analyzed using the TBSS module. The mean N20 and CCT and the right- and left-sided N20 and CCT were separately correlated to FA, AD, and RD, controlled for age, gender, and EDSS as variables of non-interest. Results Widespread negative correlations of SSEP latencies with FA (p = 0.0005) and positive correlations with RD (p = 0.0003) were measured in distinct white matter tracts, especially the optic tracts, corpus callosum, and posterior corona radiata. No correlation with AD was found in any white matter tract. Conclusion Highly significant correlations of FA and RD to SSEPs suggest that their latency is representative of widespread microstructural change, and especially demyelination in patients suffering from MS, reaching beyond the classic somatosensory regions. This points to the usefulness of SSEPs as a non-invasive tool in the evaluation of microstructural damage to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Hamann
- Institute of Neuroradiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- *Correspondence: Jan Hamann
| | - Barbara Ettrich
- Department of Neurology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | | | - Donald Lobsien
- Institute of Neuroradiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, Helios Klinikum Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
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Prognostic biomarkers in primary progressive multiple sclerosis: validating and scrutinizing multimodal evoked potentials. Clin Neurophysiol 2022; 137:152-158. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2022.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Guerrieri S, Comi G, Leocani L. Optical Coherence Tomography and Visual Evoked Potentials as Prognostic and Monitoring Tools in Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:692599. [PMID: 34421520 PMCID: PMC8374170 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.692599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms underlying progression and developing new treatments for progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) are among the major challenges in the field of central nervous system (CNS) demyelinating diseases. Over the last 10 years, also because of some technological advances, the visual pathways have emerged as a useful platform to study the processes of demyelination/remyelination and their relationship with axonal degeneration/protection. The wider availability and technological advances in optical coherence tomography (OCT) have allowed to add information on structural neuroretinal changes, in addition to functional information provided by visual evoked potentials (VEPs). The present review will address the role of the visual pathway as a platform to assess functional and structural damage in MS, focusing in particular on the role of VEPs and OCT, alone or in combination, in the prognosis and monitoring of PMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Guerrieri
- Experimental Neurophysiology Unit, San Raffaele Hospital, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Comi
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Casa di Cura del Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Letizia Leocani
- Experimental Neurophysiology Unit, San Raffaele Hospital, Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Multimodal Evoked Potentials as Candidate Prognostic and Response Biomarkers in Clinical Trials of Multiple Sclerosis. J Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 38:171-180. [PMID: 33958567 DOI: 10.1097/wnp.0000000000000723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY Evoked potentials (EPs) measure quantitatively and objectively the alterations of central signal propagation in multiple sclerosis and have long been used for diagnosis. More recently, their utility for prognosis has been demonstrated in several studies, summarizing multiple EP modalities in a single score. In particular, visual, somatosensory, and motor EPs are useful because of their sensitivity to pathology in the frequently affected optic nerve, somatosensory tract, and pyramidal system. Quantitative EP scores show higher sensitivity to change than clinical assessment and may be used to monitor disease progression. Visual EP and the visual system have served as a model to study remyelinating therapies in the setting of acute and chronic optic neuritis. This review presents rationale and evidence for using multimodal EP as prognostic and response biomarkers in clinical trials, targeting remyelination or halting disease progression in multiple sclerosis.
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Hardmeier M, Schindler C, Kuhle J, Fuhr P. Validation of Quantitative Scores Derived From Motor Evoked Potentials in the Assessment of Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis: A Longitudinal Study. Front Neurol 2020; 11:735. [PMID: 32793104 PMCID: PMC7393441 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the sensitivity to change of differently calculated quantitative scores from motor evoked potentials (MEP) in patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS). Methods: Twenty patients with PPMS had MEP to upper and lower limbs at baseline, years 1 and 2 measured in addition to clinical assessment [Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), ambulation score]; a subsample (n = 9) had a nine-hole peg test (NHPT) and a timed 25-foot walk (T25FW). Quantitative MEP scores for upper limbs (qMEP-UL), lower limbs (qMEP-LL), and all limbs (qMEP) were calculated in three different ways, based on z-transformed central motor conduction time (CMCT), shortest corticomuscular latency (CxM-sh), and mean CxM (CxM-mn). Changes in clinical measures and qMEP metrics were analyzed by repeated-measures analysis of variance (rANOVA), and a factor analysis was performed on change in qMEP metrics. Results: Expanded Disability Status Scale and ambulation score progressed in the rANOVA model (p < 0.05; post-hoc comparison baseline-year 2, p < 0.1). Lower limb and combined qMEP scores showed significant deterioration of latency (p < 0.01, MEP-LL_CxM-sh: p < 0.05) and in post-hoc comparisons (baseline-year 2, p < 0.05), qMEP_CxM-mn even over 1 year (p < 0.05). Effect sizes were higher for qMEP scores than for clinical measures, and slightly but consistently higher when based on CxM-mn compared to CxM-sh or CMCT. Subgroup analysis yielded no indication of higher sensitivity of timed clinical measures over qMEP scores. Two independent factors were detected, the first mainly associated with qMEP-LL, the second with qMEP-UL, explaining 65 and 29% of total variability, respectively. Conclusions: Deterioration in qMEP scores occurs earlier than EDSS progression in patients with PPMS. Upper and lower limb qMEP scores contribute independently to measuring change, and qMEP scores based on mean CxM are advantageous. The capability to detect subclinical changes longitudinally is a unique property of EP and complementary to clinical assessment. These features underline the role of EP as candidate biomarkers to measure effects of therapeutic interventions in PPMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hardmeier
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Schindler
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jens Kuhle
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Peter Fuhr
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Yperman J, Becker T, Valkenborg D, Hellings N, Cambron M, Dive D, Laureys G, Popescu V, Van Wijmeersch B, Peeters LM. Deciphering the Morphology of Motor Evoked Potentials. Front Neuroinform 2020; 14:28. [PMID: 32765249 PMCID: PMC7381179 DOI: 10.3389/fninf.2020.00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor Evoked Potentials (MEPs) are used to monitor disability progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). Their morphology plays an important role in this process. Currently, however, there is no clear definition of what constitutes a normal or abnormal morphology. To address this, five experts independently labeled the morphology (normal or abnormal) of the same set of 1,000 MEPs. The intra- and inter-rater agreement between the experts indicates they agree on the concept of morphology, but differ in their choice of threshold between normal and abnormal morphology. We subsequently performed an automated extraction of 5,943 time series features from the MEPs to identify a valid proxy for morphology, based on the provided labels. To do this, we compared the cross-validation performances of one-dimensional logistic regression models fitted to each of the features individually. We find that the approximate entropy (ApEn) feature can accurately reproduce the majority-vote labels. The performance of this feature is evaluated on an independent test set by comparing to the majority vote of the neurologists, obtaining an AUC score of 0.92. The model slightly outperforms the average neurologist at reproducing the neurologists consensus-vote labels. We can conclude that MEP morphology can be consistently defined by pooling the interpretations from multiple neurologists and that ApEn is a valid continuous score for this. Having an objective and reproducible MEP morphological abnormality score will allow researchers to include this feature in their models, without manual annotation becoming a bottleneck. This is crucial for large-scale, multi-center datasets. An exploratory analysis on a large single-center dataset shows that ApEn is potentially clinically useful. Introducing an automated, objective, and reproducible definition of morphology could help overcome some of the barriers that are currently obstructing broad adoption of evoked potentials in daily care and patient follow-up, such as standardization of measurements between different centers, and formulating guidelines for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Yperman
- Theoretical Physics, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,I-Biostat, Data Science Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,BIOMED, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Thijs Becker
- Theoretical Physics, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,I-Biostat, Data Science Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Dirk Valkenborg
- I-Biostat, Data Science Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | | | - Melissa Cambron
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Neurology, AZ Sint-Jan, Brugge, Belgium
| | | | - Guy Laureys
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Veronica Popescu
- BIOMED, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Revalidation and MS Center Pelt, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Bart Van Wijmeersch
- BIOMED, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Revalidation and MS Center Pelt, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Liesbet M Peeters
- I-Biostat, Data Science Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,BIOMED, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
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Machine learning analysis of motor evoked potential time series to predict disability progression in multiple sclerosis. BMC Neurol 2020; 20:105. [PMID: 32199461 PMCID: PMC7085864 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-020-01672-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Evoked potentials (EPs) are a measure of the conductivity of the central nervous system. They are used to monitor disease progression of multiple sclerosis patients. Previous studies only extracted a few variables from the EPs, which are often further condensed into a single variable: the EP score. We perform a machine learning analysis of motor EP that uses the whole time series, instead of a few variables, to predict disability progression after two years. Obtaining realistic performance estimates of this task has been difficult because of small data set sizes. We recently extracted a dataset of EPs from the Rehabiliation & MS Center in Overpelt, Belgium. Our data set is large enough to obtain, for the first time, a performance estimate on an independent test set containing different patients. Methods We extracted a large number of time series features from the motor EPs with the highly comparative time series analysis software package. Mutual information with the target and the Boruta method are used to find features which contain information not included in the features studied in the literature. We use random forests (RF) and logistic regression (LR) classifiers to predict disability progression after two years. Statistical significance of the performance increase when adding extra features is checked. Results Including extra time series features in motor EPs leads to a statistically significant improvement compared to using only the known features, although the effect is limited in magnitude (ΔAUC = 0.02 for RF and ΔAUC = 0.05 for LR). RF with extra time series features obtains the best performance (AUC = 0.75±0.07 (mean and standard deviation)), which is good considering the limited number of biomarkers in the model. RF (a nonlinear classifier) outperforms LR (a linear classifier). Conclusions Using machine learning methods on EPs shows promising predictive performance. Using additional EP time series features beyond those already in use leads to a modest increase in performance. Larger datasets, preferably multi-center, are needed for further research. Given a large enough dataset, these models may be used to support clinicians in their decision making process regarding future treatment.
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Pisa M, Chieffo R, Giordano A, Gelibter S, Comola M, Comi G, Leocani L. Upper limb motor evoked potentials as outcome measure in progressive multiple sclerosis. Clin Neurophysiol 2020; 131:401-405. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2019.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Baldassari LE, Feng J, Clayton BLL, Oh SH, Sakaie K, Tesar PJ, Wang Y, Cohen JA. Developing therapeutic strategies to promote myelin repair in multiple sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2019; 19:997-1013. [PMID: 31215271 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2019.1632192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Approved disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis (MS) lessen inflammatory disease activity that causes relapses and MRI lesions. However, chronic inflammation and demyelination lead to axonal degeneration and neuronal loss, for which there currently is no effective treatment. There has been increasing interest in developing repair-promoting strategies, but there are important unanswered questions regarding the mechanisms and appropriate methods to evaluate these treatments. Areas covered: The rationale for remyelinating agents in MS is discussed, with an overview of both myelin physiology and endogenous repair mechanisms. This is followed by a discussion of the identification and development of potential remyelinating drugs. Potential biomarkers of remyelination are reviewed, including considerations regarding measuring remyelination in clinical trials. Information and data were obtained from a search of recent literature through PubMed. Peer-reviewed original articles and review articles were included. Expert opinion: There are several obstacles to the translation of potential remyelinating agents to clinical trials, particularly uncertainty regarding the most appropriate study population and method to monitor remyelination. Refinements in clinical trial design and outcome measurement, potentially via advanced imaging techniques, are needed to optimize detection of repair in patients with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Baldassari
- Mellen Center for MS Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , OH , USA
| | - Jenny Feng
- Mellen Center for MS Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , OH , USA
| | - Benjamin L L Clayton
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine , Cleveland , OH , USA
| | - Se-Hong Oh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies , Yongin , Republic of Korea
| | - Ken Sakaie
- Imaging Institute, Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , OH , USA
| | - Paul J Tesar
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine , Cleveland , OH , USA
| | - Yanming Wang
- Department of Radiology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine , Cleveland , OH , USA
| | - Jeffrey A Cohen
- Mellen Center for MS Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic , Cleveland , OH , USA
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13
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Hardmeier M, Jacques F, Albrecht P, Bousleiman H, Schindler C, Leocani L, Fuhr P. Multicentre assessment of motor and sensory evoked potentials in multiple sclerosis: reliability and implications for clinical trials. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2019; 5:2055217319844796. [PMID: 31069107 PMCID: PMC6495443 DOI: 10.1177/2055217319844796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Motor and sensory evoked potentials (EP) are potential candidate biomarkers for clinical trials in multiple sclerosis. Objective To determine test -retest reliability of motor EP (MEP) and sensory EP (SEP) and associated EP-scores in patients with multiple sclerosis. Methods In three centres, 16 relapsing and five progressive multiple sclerosis patients had MEPs and SEPs 1-29 days apart. Five neurophysiologists independently marked latencies by central reading. By variance component analysis, we estimated the critical difference (absolute reliability) for cross-sectional group comparison, comparison of longitudinal group changes, within-subject minimal detectable change and defined within-subject improvement. Results Cortical SEP responses and cortico-muscular MEP latencies were more reliable than central conduction times. For comparison of 20 subjects per arm, cross-sectional group difference ranged from 0.7 to 3.9 ms and 1.1 to 1.7, group difference in longitudinal changes from 0.4 to 1.8 ms and 0.36 to 0.62, within-subject minimal detectable change from 1.2 to 5.8 ms and 1.2 to 2.0, within-subject improvement from 0.8 to 3.8ms and 0.8 to 1.3, for single EP modalities and EP scores, respectively. Conclusions Multicentre EP assessment with central EP reading is feasible and reliable. The critical difference is reasonably low to detect significant group changes and to define responders. The results support the concept of using EP and EP-scores as candidate response biomarkers for quantification of disease progression and for studying remyelination in multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hardmeier
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of the University of Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Philipp Albrecht
- Department of Neurology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Habib Bousleiman
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of the University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Schindler
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Letizia Leocani
- Departments of Neurology and Neurorehabilitation, Ospedale San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - Peter Fuhr
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of the University of Basel, Switzerland
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14
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Ciccarelli O, Cohen JA, Reingold SC, Weinshenker BG, Amato MP, Banwell B, Barkhof F, Bebo B, Becher B, Bethoux F, Brandt A, Brownlee W, Calabresi P, Chatway J, Chien C, Chitnis T, Ciccarelli O, Cohen J, Comi G, Correale J, De Sèze J, De Stefano N, Fazekas F, Flanagan E, Freedman M, Fujihara K, Galetta S, Goldman M, Greenberg B, Hartung HP, Hemmer B, Henning A, Izbudak I, Kappos L, Lassmann H, Laule C, Levy M, Lublin F, Lucchinetti C, Lukas C, Marrie RA, Miller A, Miller D, Montalban X, Mowry E, Ourselin S, Paul F, Pelletier D, Ranjeva JP, Reich D, Reingold S, Rocca MA, Rovira A, Schlaerger R, Soelberg Sorensen P, Sormani M, Stuve O, Thompson A, Tintoré M, Traboulsee A, Trapp B, Trojano M, Uitdehaag B, Vukusic S, Waubant E, Weinshenker B, Wheeler-Kingshott CG, Xu J. Spinal cord involvement in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Lancet Neurol 2019; 18:185-197. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(18)30460-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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15
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Ulivelli M, Monti L, Ballerini M, Bartalini S, Cerase A, Cecconi F, Pizzirusso G, Bezzini D, Rossi A, Rossi S. Prospective study of clinical, neurophysiological and urodynamic findings in multiple sclerosis patients undergoing percutaneous transluminal venous angioplasty. Clin Neurophysiol 2018; 130:138-144. [PMID: 30537671 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2018.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Revised: 10/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Verify whether Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty (PTA) may affect neural conduction properties in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients, thereby modifying patients' disability, with prospective neurophysiological, urodynamic, clinical and subjective well-being evaluations. METHODS In 55 out of 72 consecutively screened MS patients, the following procedures were carried out before (T0), at 2-6 months (T1) and at 6-15 months (T2) after a diagnostic phlebography, eventually followed by the PTA intervention if chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) was diagnosed: clinical/objective evaluation (Expanded Disability Status Scale, EDSS), ratings of subjective well-being, evaluation of urodynamic functions and multimodal EPs (visual, acoustic, upper and lower limbs somatosensory and motor evoked potentials). RESULTS The number of dropouts was relatively high, and a complete set of neurophysiological and clinical data remained available for 37 patients (19 for urological investigations). The subjective well-being score significantly increased at T1 and returned close to basal values at T2, but their degree of objective disability did not change. Nevertheless, global EP-scores (indexing the impairment in conductivity of central pathways in multiple functional domains) significantly increased from T0 (7.9 ± 6.0) to T1 (9.2 ± 6.3) and from T0 to T2 (9.8 ± 6.3), but not from T1 and T2 (p > 0.05). Neurogenic urological lower tract dysfunctions slightly increased throughout the study. CONCLUSIONS The PTA intervention did not induce significant changes in disability in the present cohort of MS patients, in line with recent evidence of clinical inefficacy of this procedure. SIGNIFICANCE Absence of multimodal neurophysiological and functional testing changes in the first 15 months following PTA suggests that conduction properties of neural pathways are unaffected by PTA. Current findings suggest that the short-lived (2-6 months), post-PTA, beneficial effect on subjective well-being measures experienced by MS patients is likely related to a placebo effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Ulivelli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, Unit of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Siena, Italy.
| | - Lucia Monti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, NINT Section, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Michele Ballerini
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, Unit of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Sabina Bartalini
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, Unit of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Alfonso Cerase
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, NINT Section, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Filippo Cecconi
- Urologia, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | | | | | - Alessandro Rossi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, Unit of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Siena, Italy; Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, NINT Section, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Simone Rossi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, Unit of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Siena, Italy.
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Vermersch P, Berger T, Gold R, Lukas C, Rovira A, Meesen B, Chard D, Comabella M, Palace J, Trojano M. The clinical perspective: How to personalise treatment in MS and how may biomarkers including imaging contribute to this? Mult Scler 2018; 22:18-33. [PMID: 27465613 DOI: 10.1177/1352458516650739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a highly heterogeneous disease, both in its course and in its response to treatments. Effective biomarkers may help predict disability progression and monitor patients' treatment responses. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review was to focus on how biomarkers may contribute to treatment individualisation in MS patients. METHODS This review reflects the content of presentations, polling results and discussions on the clinical perspective of MS during the first and second Pan-European MS Multi-stakeholder Colloquia in Brussels in May 2014 and 2015. RESULTS In clinical practice, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures play a significant role in the diagnosis and follow-up of MS patients. Together with clinical markers, the rate of MRI-visible lesion accrual once a patient has started treatment may also help to predict subsequent treatment responsiveness. In addition, several molecular (immunological, genetic) biomarkers have been established that may play a role in predictive models of MS relapses and progression. To reach personalised treatment decisions, estimates of disability progression and likely treatment response should be carefully considered alongside the risk of serious adverse events, together with the patient's treatment expectations. CONCLUSION Although biomarkers may be very useful for individualised decision making in MS, many are still research tools and need to be validated before implementation in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Vermersch
- University of Lille, CHRU de Lille, Lille International Research Inflammation Center (LIRIC), INSRRM U995, FHU Imminent, Lille, France
| | - Thomas Berger
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Clinic, Medical University of Innsbruck (MUI), Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ralf Gold
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Carsten Lukas
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Alex Rovira
- Department of Radiology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bianca Meesen
- Managing Director at Ismar Healthcare, Lier, Belgium
| | - Declan Chard
- NMR Research Unit, Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK/Biomedical Research Centre, University College London Hospitals (UCLH), National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), London, UK
| | - Manuel Comabella
- Department of Clinical Neuroimmunology, Multiple Sclerosis Center of Catalonia (Cemcat), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jacqueline Palace
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Maria Trojano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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Barro C, Leocani L, Leppert D, Comi G, Kappos L, Kuhle J. Fluid biomarker and electrophysiological outcome measures for progressive MS trials. Mult Scler 2017; 23:1600-1613. [DOI: 10.1177/1352458517732844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by insidious clinical worsening that is difficult to accurately quantify and predict. Biofluid markers and electrophysiological measures are potential candidate outcome measures in clinical trials, allowing the quantification of nervous damage occurring in the disease. Neurofilaments are highly specific neuronal proteins. They may have come closest to such applications by their higher concentrations repeatedly demonstrated in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in all stages of MS, during relapses, their responsiveness to disease-modifying treatments in relapsing and progressive MS and their associations with measures of inflammatory and degenerative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcomes. Digital single-molecule array (Simoa) technology improves accuracy of bioassays in the quantification of neurofilament light chain (NfL) in serum and plasma. NfL seems to mark a common final path of neuroaxonal injury independent of specific causal pathways. CSF and blood levels of NfL are highly correlated across various diseases including MS, suggesting that blood measurements may be useful in assessing response to treatment and predicting future disease activity. Other biomarkers like matrix metalloproteinases, chemokines, or neurotrophic factors have not been studied to a similar extent. Such measures, especially in blood, need further validation to enter the trial arena or clinical practice. The broadening armamentarium of highly sensitive assay technologies in the future may shed even more light on patient heterogeneity and mechanisms leading to disability in MS. Evoked potentials (EPs) are used in clinical practice to measure central conduction of central sensorimotor pathways. They correlate with and predict the severity of clinical involvement of their corresponding function. Their validation for use in multicenter studies is still lacking, with the exception of visual EPs. If further validated, EPs and fluid biomarkers would represent useful outcome measures for clinical trials, being related to specific mechanisms of the ongoing pathologic changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Barro
- Neurologic Clinic and Policlinic, Departments of Medicine, Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital of Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Letizia Leocani
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy/Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - David Leppert
- Neurologic Clinic and Policlinic, Departments of Medicine, Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital of Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland/Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Giancarlo Comi
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE), San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy/Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Neurologic Clinic and Policlinic, Departments of Medicine, Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital of Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jens Kuhle
- Neurologic Clinic and Policlinic, Departments of Medicine, Biomedicine and Clinical Research, University Hospital of Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Lascano AM, Lalive PH, Hardmeier M, Fuhr P, Seeck M. Clinical evoked potentials in neurology: a review of techniques and indications. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2017; 88:688-696. [PMID: 28235778 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2016-314791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Revised: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Evoked potentials (EPs) are a powerful and cost-effective tool for evaluating the integrity and function of the central nervous system. Although imaging techniques, such as MRI, have recently become increasingly important in the diagnosis of neurological diseases, over the past 30 years, many neurologists have continued to employ EPs in specific clinical applications. This review presents an overview of the recent evolution of 'classical' clinical applications of EPs in terms of early diagnosis and disease monitoring and is an extension of a previous review published in this journal in 2005 by Walsh and collaborators. We also provide an update on emerging EPs based on gustatory, olfactory and pain stimulation that may be used as clinically relevant markers of neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and cortical or peripheral impaired pain perception. EPs based on multichannel electroencephalography recordings, known as high-density EPs, help to better differentiate between healthy subjects and patients and, moreover, they provide valuable spatial information regarding the site of the lesion. EPs are reliable disease-progression biomarkers of several neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating disorders. Overall, EPs are excellent neurophysiological tools that will expand standard clinical practice in modern neurology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustina M Lascano
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Division of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patrice H Lalive
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Division of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Martin Hardmeier
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Peter Fuhr
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Margitta Seeck
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Division of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
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Hardmeier M, Leocani L, Fuhr P. A new role for evoked potentials in MS? Repurposing evoked potentials as biomarkers for clinical trials in MS. Mult Scler 2017; 23:1309-1319. [PMID: 28480798 PMCID: PMC5564950 DOI: 10.1177/1352458517707265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Evoked potentials (EP) characterize signal conduction in selected tracts of the central nervous system in a quantifiable way. Since alteration of signal conduction is the main mechanism of symptoms and signs in multiple sclerosis (MS), multimodal EP may serve as a representative measure of the functional impairment in MS. Moreover, EP have been shown to be predictive for disease course, and thus might help to select patient groups at high risk of progression for clinical trials. EP can detect deterioration, as well as improvement of impulse propagation, independently from the mechanism causing the change. Therefore, they are candidates for biomarkers with application in clinical phase-II trials. Applicability of EP in multicenter trials has been limited by different standards of registration and assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hardmeier
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Letizia Leocani
- Neurological Department and Institute of Experimental Neurology (INSPE) Scientific Institute, University Hospital San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Peter Fuhr
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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20
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Early disturbances in multimodal evoked potentials as a prognostic factor for long-term disability in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients. Clin Neurophysiol 2017; 128:561-569. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2016.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Revised: 12/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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21
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Do evoked potentials contribute to the functional follow-up and clinical prognosis of multiple sclerosis? Acta Neurol Belg 2017; 117:53-59. [PMID: 27194163 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-016-0650-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The clinical variability and complexity of multiple sclerosis (MS) challenges the individual clinical course prognostication. This study aimed to find out whether multimodal evoked potentials (EP) correlate with the motor components of multiple sclerosis functional composite (MSFCm) and predict clinically relevant motor functional deterioration. One hundred MS patients were assessed at baseline (T 0) and about 7.5 years later (T 1), with visual, somatosensory and motor EP and rated on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the MSFCm, including the 9 Hole Peg Test and the Timed 25 Foot Walk (T25FW). The Spearman correlation coefficient (r S) was used to evaluate the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationship between EP Z scores and clinical findings. The predictive value of baseline electrophysiological data for clinical worsening (EDSS, 9-HPT, T25FW, MSFCm) during follow-up was assessed by logistic regression analysis. Unlike longitudinal correlations, cross-sectional correlations between EP Z scores and clinical outcomes were all significant and ranged between 0.22 and 0.67 (p < 0.05). The global EP Z score was systematically predictive of EDSS and MSFCm worsening over time (all p < 0.05). EP latency was a better predictor than amplitude, although weaker than latency and amplitude aggregation in the global EP Z score. The study demonstrates that EP numerical scores can be used for motor function monitoring and outcome prediction in patients with MS.
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Habek M, Adamec I, Barun B, Crnošija L, Gabelić T, Krbot Skorić M. Clinical Neurophysiology of Multiple Sclerosis. MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS: BENCH TO BEDSIDE 2017; 958:129-139. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-47861-6_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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23
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Ayache SS, Créange A, Farhat WH, Zouari HG, Lesage C, Palm U, Abdellaoui M, Lefaucheur JP. Cortical excitability changes over time in progressive multiple sclerosis. FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY 2016; 30:257-63. [PMID: 26727704 DOI: 10.11138/fneur/2015.30.4.257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
In 25 patients with progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), motor cortex excitability was longitudinally studied over one year by means of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). The following TMS parameters were considered: resting and active motor thresholds (MTs), input-output curve, short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI), and intracortical facilitation. Clinical evaluation was based on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). In the 16 patients not receiving disease-modifying drugs, the EDSS score worsened, resting MT increased, and SICI decreased. By contrast, no clinical for neurophysiological changes were found over time in the nine patients receiving immunomodulatory therapy. The natural course of progressive MS appears to be associated with a decline in cortical excitability of both pyramidal neurons and inhibitory circuits. This pilot study based on a small sample suggests that disease-modifying drugs may allow cortical excitability to remain stable, even in patients with progressive MS.
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Leocani L, Rocca MA, Comi G. MRI and neurophysiological measures to predict course, disability and treatment response in multiple sclerosis. Curr Opin Neurol 2016; 29:243-53. [DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000000333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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25
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Giffroy X, Maes N, Albert A, Maquet P, Crielaard JM, Dive D. Multimodal evoked potentials for functional quantification and prognosis in multiple sclerosis. BMC Neurol 2016; 16:83. [PMID: 27245221 PMCID: PMC4888661 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-016-0608-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional biomarkers able to identify multiple sclerosis (MS) patients at high risk of fast disability progression are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of multimodal (upper and lower limbs motor, visual, lower limbs somatosensory) evoked potentials (EP) to monitor disease course and identify patients exposed to unfavourable evolution. METHODS One hundred MS patients were assessed with visual, somatosensory and motor EP and rated on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) at baseline (T0) and about 6 years later (T1). The Spearman correlation (rS) was used to evaluate the relationship between conventional EP scores and clinical findings. Multiple (logistic) regression analysis estimated the predictive value of baseline electrophysiological data for three clinical outcomes: EDSS, annual EDSS progression, and the risk of EDSS worsening. RESULTS In contrast to longitudinal correlations, cross-sectional correlations between the different EP scores and EDSS were all significant (0.33 ≤ rS < 0.67, p < 0.001). Baseline global EP score and EDSS were highly significant predictors (p < 0.0001) of EDSS progression 6 years later. The baseline global EP score was found to be an independent predictor of the EDSS annual progression rate (p < 0.001), and of the risk of disability progression over time (p < 0.005). Based on a ROC curve determination, we defined a Global EP Score cut off point (17/30) to identify patients at high risk of disability progression illustrated by a positive predictive value of 70%. CONCLUSION This study provides a proof of the concept that electrophysiology could be added to MRI and used as another complementary prognostic tool in MS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Giffroy
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Liege, Rue Grandfosse 31-33, 4130, Esneux, Belgium.
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Liege, B35, 4000, Liege, Belgium.
| | - Nathalie Maes
- Department of Biostatistics and Medico-Economic Information, University Hospital (CHU, ULg) of Liege, B35, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Adelin Albert
- Department of Biostatistics and Medico-Economic Information, University Hospital (CHU, ULg) of Liege, B35, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Pierre Maquet
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Liege, Rue Grandfosse 31-33, 4130, Esneux, Belgium
| | - Jean-Michel Crielaard
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Liege, B35, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Dominique Dive
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Liege, Rue Grandfosse 31-33, 4130, Esneux, Belgium
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Schlaeger R, Hardmeier M, D’Souza M, Grize L, Schindler C, Kappos L, Fuhr P. Monitoring multiple sclerosis by multimodal evoked potentials: Numerically versus ordinally scaled scoring systems. Clin Neurophysiol 2016; 127:1864-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2015.11.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Revised: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 11/28/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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27
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Multimodal neurophysiological evaluation of primary progressive multiple sclerosis – An increasingly valid biomarker, with limits. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2015; 4:607-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2015.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Revised: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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28
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Simpson M, Macdonell R. The use of transcranial magnetic stimulation in diagnosis, prognostication and treatment evaluation in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2015; 4:430-436. [PMID: 26346791 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2015.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Despite advances in brain imaging which have revolutionised the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), current imaging techniques have limitations, including poor correlation with clinical disability and prognosis. There is growing evidence that electrophysiological techniques may provide complementary functional information which can aid in diagnosis, prognostication and perhaps even monitoring of treatment response in patients with MS. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an underutilised technique with potential to assist diagnosis, predict prognosis and provide an objective surrogate marker of clinical progress and treatment response. This review explores the existing body of evidence relating to the use of TMS in patients with MS, outlines the practical aspects and scope of TMS testing and reviews the current evidence relating to the use of TMS in diagnosis, disease classification, prognostication and response to symptomatic and disease-modifying therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Simpson
- Department of Neurology, Austin Health and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia.
| | - Richard Macdonell
- Department of Neurology, Austin Health and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
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Fuhr P, Schindler C. Clinical Neurophysiology in multiple sclerosis – From diagnostic tool to biomarker. Clin Neurophysiol 2015; 126:7-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2014.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2014] [Revised: 06/03/2014] [Accepted: 06/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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30
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Sadnicka A, Hamada M, Bhatia KP, Rothwell JC, Edwards MJ. A reflection on plasticity research in writing dystonia. Mov Disord 2014; 29:980-7. [DOI: 10.1002/mds.25908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2013] [Revised: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sadnicka
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders; University College London; London UK
| | - Masashi Hamada
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders; University College London; London UK
- Department of Neurology; Graduate School of Medicine; The University of Tokyo; Tokyo Japan
| | - Kailash P. Bhatia
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders; University College London; London UK
| | - John C. Rothwell
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders; University College London; London UK
| | - Mark J. Edwards
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders; University College London; London UK
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31
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Hardmeier M, Hatz F, Naegelin Y, Hight D, Schindler C, Kappos L, Seeck M, Michel CM, Fuhr P. Improved characterization of visual evoked potentials in multiple sclerosis by topographic analysis. Brain Topogr 2013; 27:318-27. [PMID: 24085573 PMCID: PMC3921459 DOI: 10.1007/s10548-013-0318-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In multiple sclerosis (MS), the combination of visual, somatosensory and motor evoked potentials (EP) has been shown to be highly correlated with the Expanded Disability Severity Scale (EDSS) and to predict the disease course. In the present study, we explored whether the significance of the visual EP (VEP) can be improved with multichannel recordings (204 electrodes) and topographic analysis (tVEP). VEPs were analyzed in 83 MS patients (median EDSS 2.0; 52 % with history of optic neuritis; hON) and 47 healthy controls (HC). TVEP components were automatically defined on the basis of spatial similarity between the scalp potential fields (topographic maps) of single subjects’ VEPs and reference maps generated from HC. Non-ambiguous measures of latency, amplitude and configuration were derived from the maps reflecting the P100 component. TVEP was compared to conventional analysis (cVEP) with respect to reliability in HC, validity using descriptors of logistic regression models, and sensitivity derived from receiver operating characteristics curves. In tVEP, reliability tended to be higher for measurement of amplitude (p = 0.06). Regression models on diagnosis (MS vs. HC) and hON were more favorable using tVEP- versus cVEP-predictors. Sensitivity was increased in tVEP versus cVEP: 72 % versus 60 % for diagnosis, and 88 % versus 77 % for hON. The advantage of tVEP was most pronounced in pathological VEPs, in which cVEPs were often ambiguous. TVEP is a reliable, valid, and sensitive method of objectively quantifying pathological VEP in particular. In combination with other EP modalities, tVEP may improve the monitoring of disease course in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hardmeier
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of the University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland,
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Schlaeger R, Hardmeier M, Fuhr P. Superficial brain stimulation in multiple sclerosis. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2013; 116:577-84. [PMID: 24112925 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-53497-2.00046-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Central motor conduction time (CMCT) is the most frequently studied measure derived from transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in multiple sclerosis (MS); it is abnormal in 57-93% of patients. Addition of the triple stimulation technique and combining motor with other evoked potentials (EPs) increases sensitivity. Cross-sectional correlations of TMS measures with clinical assessments of motor dysfunction or global disability are high. Longitudinally, CMCT is sensitive to both worsening and improvement of motor function, showing its potential to detect therapeutic responses. Moreover, combined multimodal EPs are valid quantitative predictors of the clinical course over periods ranging from 2 to 14 years. Measures of transcallosal connectivity (ipsilateral silent period and interhemispheric inhibition) are altered even in early MS, and yield complementary information on subclinical changes. Pathological brain plasticity in MS has been demonstrated by paired associative stimulation studies revealing a compensatory role of the ipsilateral motor and premotor areas. Central motor fatigue is associated with reduced motor EP amplitudes and increased cortical silent periods in normal controls, whereas patients with MS suffering from subjective fatigue show various abnormalities in cortical modulation of the motor system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Schlaeger
- Department of Neurology, Hospitals of the University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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