1
|
Foong YC, Merlo D, Gresle M, Buzzard K, Zhong M, Yeh WZ, Jokubaitis V, Monif M, Skibina O, Ozakbas S, Patti F, Grammond P, Amato MP, Kalincik T, Horakova D, Kubala Havrdova E, Weinstock-Guttman B, Lechner Scott J, Boz C, Sa MJ, Butzkueven H, van der Walt A, Zhu C. Comparing ocrelizumab to interferon/glatiramer acetate in people with multiple sclerosis over age 60. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2024; 95:767-774. [PMID: 38453478 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2023-332883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ongoing controversy exists regarding optimal management of disease modifying therapy (DMT) in older people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). There is concern that the lower relapse rate, combined with a higher risk of DMT-related infections and side effects, may alter the risk-benefit balance in older pwMS. Given the lack of pwMS above age 60 in randomised controlled trials, the comparative efficacy of high-efficacy DMTs such as ocrelizumab has not been shown in older pwMS. We aimed to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of ocrelizumab, a high-efficacy DMT, versus interferon/glatiramer acetate (IFN/GA) in pwMS over the age of 60. METHODS Using data from MSBase registry, this multicentre cohort study included pwMS above 60 who switched to or started on ocrelizumab or IFN/GA. We analysed relapse and disability outcomes after balancing covariates using an inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) method. Propensity scores were obtained based on age, country, disease duration, sex, baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale, prior relapses (all-time, 12 months and 24 months) and prior DMT exposure (overall number and high-efficacy DMTs). After weighting, all covariates were balanced. Primary outcomes were time to first relapse and annualised relapse rate (ARR). Secondary outcomes were 6-month confirmed disability progression (CDP) and confirmed disability improvement (CDI). RESULTS A total of 248 participants received ocrelizumab, while 427 received IFN/GA. The IPTW-weighted ARR for ocrelizumab was 0.01 and 0.08 for IFN/GA. The IPTW-weighted ARR ratio was 0.15 (95% CI 0.06 to 0.33, p<0.001) for ocrelizumab compared with IFN/GA. On IPTW-weighted Cox regression models, HR for time to first relapse was 0.13 (95% CI 0.05 to 0.26, p<0.001). The hazard of first relapse was significantly reduced in ocrelizumab users after 5 months compared with IFN/GA users. However, the two groups did not differ in CDP or CDI over 3.57 years. CONCLUSION In older pwMS, ocrelizumab effectively reduced relapses compared with IFN/GA. Overall relapse activity was low. This study adds valuable real-world data for informed DMT decision making with older pwMS. Our study also confirms that there is a treatment benefit in older people with MS, given the existence of a clear differential treatment effect between ocrelizumab and IFN/GA in the over 60 age group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Chao Foong
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Tasmanian Health Service, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Daniel Merlo
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Melissa Gresle
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katherine Buzzard
- Eastern Health, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Zhong
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Wei Zhen Yeh
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vilija Jokubaitis
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mastura Monif
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Olga Skibina
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Francesco Patti
- Neuroscience, University of Catania Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Advanced Technologies 'G.F. Ingrassia', Catania, Italy
- University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Maria Pia Amato
- Department of Neurological Siences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Tomas Kalincik
- Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- CORe, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dana Horakova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Charles University in Prague, 1st Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Kubala Havrdova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Charles University in Prague, 1st Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Jeanette Lechner Scott
- Hunter New England Health, New Lambton, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cavit Boz
- Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Maria Jose Sa
- Neurology, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences University Fernando Pessoa, Porto, Portugal
| | - Helmut Butzkueven
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anneke van der Walt
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chao Zhu
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gross RH, Corboy J. De-escalation and Discontinuation of Disease-Modifying Therapies in Multiple Sclerosis. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2024:10.1007/s11910-024-01355-w. [PMID: 38995483 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-024-01355-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Long-term use of multiple sclerosis (MS) disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) is standard practice to prevent accumulation of disability. Immunosenescence and other age-related changes lead to an altered risk-benefit ratio for older patients on DMTs. This article reviews recent research on the topic of de-escalation and discontinuation of MS DMTs. RECENT FINDINGS Observational and interventional studies have shed light on what happens to patients who de-escalate or discontinue DMTs and the factors, such as age, treatment type, and presence of recent disease activity, that influence outcomes. Though many questions remain, recent findings have been valuable for the development of an evidence-based approach to making de-escalation and discontinuation decisions in MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert H Gross
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 East 17thAvenue, Mail Stop F727, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Rocky Mountain Regional Veterans Administration Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - John Corboy
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 East 17thAvenue, Mail Stop F727, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gelibter S, Saraceno L, Pirro F, Susani EL, Protti A. As time goes by: Treatment challenges in elderly people with multiple sclerosis. J Neuroimmunol 2024; 391:578368. [PMID: 38761652 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2024.578368] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
A demographic shift in multiple sclerosis (MS) is leading to an increased number of elderly people with MS (pwMS) and a rise in late-onset MS (LOMS) cases. This shift adds complexity to the treatment management of these patients, due to enhanced treatment-associated risks and the possible interplay between immunosenescence and disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). In the present paper, we performed a systematic review of the current evidence concerning the relationship between aging and treatment management in elderly pwMS. Our literature search identified 35 original studies relevant to this topic. The gathered evidence consistently indicates a diminished efficacy of DMTs in older pwMS, particularly in preventing disability accrual. Against this background, high-efficacy therapies (HETs) appear to show less benefit over moderate-low-efficacy DMTs in older patients. These data mainly derive from observational retrospective studies or meta-analyses conducted on randomized clinical trials (RCTs). RCTs, however, exclude pwMS older than 55 years, limiting our ability to acquire robust evidence regarding this patient group. Regarding treatment discontinuation in elderly pwMS with stable disease, the available data, which mainly focuses on older injectable DMTs, suggests that their suspension appears to be relatively safe in terms of disease activity. Nevertheless, the first RCT specifically targeting treatment discontinuation recently failed to demonstrate the non-inferiority of treatment discontinuation over continuation, in terms of MRI activity. On the other hand, the evidence on the impact of discontinuation on disease progression is more conflicting and less robust. Furthermore, there is an important lack of studies concerning sequestering DMTs and virtually no data on the discontinuation of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies. De-escalation strategy is gaining attention as a de-risking approach alternative to complete treatment discontinuation. It may be defined as the decision to shift from HETs to less potent DMTs in elderly pwMS who have a stable disease. This strategy could reduce treatment-related risks, while minimizing the risk of disease activity and progression potentially associated with treatment discontinuation. This approach, however, remains unexplored due to a lack of studies. Given these findings, the present scenario underlines the urgent need for more comprehensive and robust studies to develop optimized, data-driven treatment strategies for elderly pwMS and LOMS, addressing the unique challenges of MS treatment and aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Gelibter
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurology and Stroke Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Saraceno
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurology and Stroke Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Fiammetta Pirro
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurology and Stroke Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Laura Susani
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurology and Stroke Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Protti
- Department of Neurosciences, Neurology and Stroke Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Goereci Y, Ellenberger D, Rommer P, Dunkl V, Golla H, Zettl U, Stahmann A, Warnke C. Persons with multiple sclerosis older than 55 years: an analysis from the German MS registry. J Neurol 2024; 271:3409-3416. [PMID: 38517521 PMCID: PMC11136707 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12286-4] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons with MS (PwMS) ≥ 55 years are underrepresented in therapy studies leading to a lack of evidence. OBJECTIVE AND METHODS To study the subgroup of PwMS ≥ 55 years in the German MS registry in comparison with PwMS < 55 years. Endpoints of interest were the grade of disability, leading symptoms, clinical and magnetic resonance imaging activity, and use of disease modifying therapy. RESULTS At the time of analysis, data from 40,428 PwMS were available for analysis. In PwMS aged ≥ 65 and PwMS aged ≥ 55 to 64 years, compared with PwMS aged < 55 years, the mean Expanded Disability Status Scale Scores were higher (5.3, 4.2 and 2.7, respectively), while the proportion of individuals with current use of disease modifying therapy was lower (42.6%, 60.9% and 76.7%, respectively). The older patient groups were more likely to be labeled with progressive MS and the frequency of occupational invalidity was high (38.8% in PwMS aged ≥ 55 to 64 years). Gait disorder, fatigue, bladder dysfunction, and spasticity were among the leading symptoms in PwMS aged ≥ 55 years. CONCLUSION PwMS ≥ 55 years have a high degree of disability, but a large proportion do not receive disease modifying therapy, exposing an unmet need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasemin Goereci
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany
| | - David Ellenberger
- German MS Register by the German MS Society, MS Research and Project Development gGmbH [MSFP], Hannover, Germany
| | - Paulus Rommer
- Department of Neurology, Neuroimmunological Section, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Veronika Dunkl
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Heidrun Golla
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Uwe Zettl
- Department of Neurology, Neuroimmunological Section, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Alexander Stahmann
- German MS Register by the German MS Society, MS Research and Project Development gGmbH [MSFP], Hannover, Germany
| | - Clemens Warnke
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937, Cologne, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zrzavy T, Rieder K, Wuketich V, Thalhammer R, Haslacher H, Altmann P, Kornek B, Krajnc N, Monschein T, Schmied C, Zebenholzer K, Zulehner G, Berger T, Rommer P, Leutmezer F, Bsteh G. Immunophenotyping in routine clinical practice for predicting treatment response and adverse events in patients with MS. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1388941. [PMID: 38689880 PMCID: PMC11058637 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1388941] [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: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Recent studies proposed cellular immunoprofiling as a surrogate for predicting treatment response and/or stratifying the occurrence of adverse events (AEs) in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). However, applicability in real-world circumstances is not sufficiently addressed. Objective We aimed to explore whether standard routine clinical leukocyte phenotyping before treatment initiation could help stratify patients according to treatment response or AEs in a real-world MS cohort. Methods In this retrospective study, 150 pwMS were included, who had been newly initiated on a disease-modifying drug (DMD) and had been assessed for standard immunophenotyping before DMD initiation (baseline) and at least once during the following year. Multivariate models were used to assess an association of immune subsets and the association between immune cell profiles regarding treatment response and AEs. Results We found that the composition of T cell subsets was associated with relapse activity, as an increased proportion of CD8+ lymphocytes at baseline indicated a higher likelihood of subsequent relapse (about 9% per 1% increase in CD8+ proportion of all CD3+ cells). This was particularly driven by patients receiving anti-CD20 therapy, where also EDSS worsening was associated with a higher number of CD8+ cells at baseline (3% increase per 10 cells). In the overall cohort, an increase in the proportion of NK cells was associated with a higher risk of EDSS worsening (5% per 1% increase). Occurrence of AEs was associated with a higher percentage of T cells and a lower number of percentual NKT cells at baseline. Conclusion Immune cell profiles are associated with treatment response and the occurrence of AEs in pwMS. Hence, immunophenotyping may serve as a valuable biomarker to enable individually tailored treatment strategies in pwMS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Zrzavy
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kerstin Rieder
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Viktoria Wuketich
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Renate Thalhammer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Helmuth Haslacher
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Patrick Altmann
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Kornek
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nik Krajnc
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tobias Monschein
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christiane Schmied
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Karin Zebenholzer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gudrun Zulehner
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paulus Rommer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Fritz Leutmezer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gabriel Bsteh
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Nociti V, Romozzi M, Mirabella M. Challenges in Diagnosis and Therapeutic Strategies in Late-Onset Multiple Sclerosis. J Pers Med 2024; 14:400. [PMID: 38673027 PMCID: PMC11051411 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14040400] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and degenerative demyelinating disease of the central nervous system of unknown etiology, which affects individuals in their early adulthood. However, nearly 5-10% of people with MS can be diagnosed at ages above 50 years old, referred to as late-onset multiple sclerosis (LOMS). Some studies have reported a distinctive presentation, clinical course, and prognosis for LOMS, implicating a different diagnostic and therapeutic approach for this population. Furthermore, similar manifestations between LOMS and other age-related conditions may lead to potential misdiagnosis and diagnostic delays, and a higher burden of multimorbidity associated with aging can further complicate the clinical picture. This review aims to explore the clinical characteristics, the disease course, and the differential diagnosis of LOMS and addresses therapeutic considerations for this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Nociti
- Centro Sclerosi Multipla, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Dipartimento Universitario di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy;
| | - Marina Romozzi
- Dipartimento Universitario di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy;
| | - Massimiliano Mirabella
- Centro Sclerosi Multipla, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Dipartimento Universitario di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Rome, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fernández Ó, Sörensen PS, Comi G, Vermersch P, Hartung HP, Leocani L, Berger T, Van Wijmeersch B, Oreja-Guevara C. Managing multiple sclerosis in individuals aged 55 and above: a comprehensive review. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1379538. [PMID: 38646534 PMCID: PMC11032020 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1379538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) management in individuals aged 55 and above presents unique challenges due to the complex interaction between aging, comorbidities, immunosenescence, and MS pathophysiology. This comprehensive review explores the evolving landscape of MS in older adults, including the increased incidence and prevalence of MS in this age group, the shift in disease phenotypes from relapsing-remitting to progressive forms, and the presence of multimorbidity and polypharmacy. We aim to provide an updated review of the available evidence of disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) in older patients, including the efficacy and safety of existing therapies, emerging treatments such as Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTKs) inhibitors and those targeting remyelination and neuroprotection, and the critical decisions surrounding the initiation, de-escalation, and discontinuation of DMTs. Non-pharmacologic approaches, including physical therapy, neuromodulation therapies, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychotherapy, are also examined for their role in holistic care. The importance of MS Care Units and advance care planning are explored as a cornerstone in providing patient-centric care, ensuring alignment with patient preferences in the disease trajectory. Finally, the review emphasizes the need for personalized management and continuous monitoring of MS patients, alongside advocating for inclusive study designs in clinical research to improve the management of this growing patient demographic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Óscar Fernández
- Departament of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine; Institute of Biomedical Research of Malaga (IBIMA), Regional University Hospital of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology and Pediatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
| | - Per Soelberg Sörensen
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Copenhagen and Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Giancarlo Comi
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Multiple Sclerosis Centre Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrick Vermersch
- Univ. Lille, Inserm U1172 LilNCog, CHU Lille, FHU Precise, Lille, France
| | - Hans-Peter Hartung
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Brain and Mind Center, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Palacky University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Letizia Leocani
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Multiple Sclerosis Centre Casa di Cura Igea, Milan, Italy
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences & Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bart Van Wijmeersch
- University MS Centre, Hasselt-Pelt, Belgium
- Rehabilitation and Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Noorderhart Hospitals, Pelt, Belgium
| | - Celia Oreja-Guevara
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clínico Universitario San Carlos, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bufan B, Ćuruvija I, Blagojević V, Grujić-Milanović J, Prijić I, Radosavljević T, Samardžić J, Radosavljevic M, Janković R, Djuretić J. NMDA Receptor Antagonist Memantine Ameliorates Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in Aged Rats. Biomedicines 2024; 12:717. [PMID: 38672073 PMCID: PMC11047843 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is closely related to the main aspects of multiple sclerosis (MS). The average age of the MS population is increasing and the number of elderly MS patients is expected to increase. In addition to neurons, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are also expressed on non-neuronal cells, such as immune cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of NMDARs in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in young and aged rats. Memantine, a non-competitive NMDAR antagonist, was administered to young and aged Dark Agouti rats from day 7 after immunization. Antagonizing NMDARs had a more favourable effect on clinical disease, reactivation, and apoptosis of CD4+ T cells in the target organ of aged EAE rats. The expression of the fractalkine receptor CX3CR1 was increased in memantine-treated rats, but to a greater extent in aged rats. Additionally, memantine increased Nrf2 and Nrf2-regulated enzymes' mRNA expression in brain tissue. The concentrations of superoxide anion radicals, malondialdehyde, and advanced oxidation protein products in brain tissue were consistent with previous results. Overall, our results suggest that NMDARs play a more important role in the pathogenesis of EAE in aged than in young rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Biljana Bufan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Ivana Ćuruvija
- Department of Research and Development, Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera, Torlak, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.Ć.); (V.B.); (I.P.)
| | - Veljko Blagojević
- Department of Research and Development, Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera, Torlak, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.Ć.); (V.B.); (I.P.)
| | - Jelica Grujić-Milanović
- Institute for Medical Research, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, Department of Cardiovascular Research, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Ivana Prijić
- Department of Research and Development, Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera, Torlak, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (I.Ć.); (V.B.); (I.P.)
| | - Tatjana Radosavljević
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Janko Samardžić
- Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Milica Radosavljevic
- Institute of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.S.); (M.R.)
| | - Radmila Janković
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Jasmina Djuretić
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Graf J, Ng HS, Zhu F, Zhao Y, Wijnands JMA, Evans C, Fisk JD, Marrie RA, Tremlett H. Disease-modifying drugs, multiple sclerosis and infection-related healthcare use in British Columbia, Canada: a population-based study. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2024; 29:100667. [PMID: 38269206 PMCID: PMC10806332 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2023.100667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Background Much remains unknown surrounding the disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) used to treat multiple sclerosis and infection-related healthcare use in the 'real-world' setting. We examined if DMD exposure was associated with altered infection-related healthcare use. Methods We assessed if DMD (versus no) exposure was associated with altered infection-related hospitalizations, physician claims, and prescriptions filled in British Columbia, Canada (1996-2017). Healthcare use was assessed using negative binomial and proportional means regression models, reported as sex-/age-/comorbidity-/calendar year-/socioeconomic-adjusted rate and hazard ratios [aRR, aHR], with 95% confidence intervals [CIs]). Findings We identified 19,360 multiple sclerosis cases (13,940/19,360; 72.0% women; mean age at study start = 44.5 standard deviation, SD = 13.3; mean follow-up = 11.7 [SD = 7.3] years). Relative to unexposed periods, exposure to any DMD was associated with a lower infection-related rate of physician claims (aRR = 0.88; 95% CI:0.85-0.92) and hazard of hospitalization (aHR = 0.64; 95% CI:0.56-0.73), and a higher rate of infection-related prescriptions (aRR = 1.14; 95% CI:1.08-1.20). Exposure to any injectable or oral DMD was associated with a lower infection-related rate of physician claims (injectable aRR = 0.88; 95% CI:0.84-0.92, oral aRR = 0.83; 95% CI:0.77-0.90) and hazard of hospitalization (injectable aHR = 0.65; 95% CI:0.56-0.75, oral aHR = 0.54; 95% CI:0.38-0.77), whereas intravenous DMD exposure was not (aRR = 0.99; 95% CI:0.86-1.14, aHR = 0.73; 95% CI:0.49-1.09). Exposure to any injectable or intravenous DMD was associated with a higher rate of infection-related prescriptions (injectable aRR = 1.15; 95% CI:1.08-1.22, intravenous = 1.34; 95% CI:1.15-1.56), whereas oral DMDs were not (aRR = 0.98; 95% CI:0.91-1.05). Interpretation DMD exposure for the treatment of MS was associated with differences in infection-related healthcare use. While infection-related hospitalizations and physician visits were lower, prescription fills were higher. How these differences in infection-related healthcare use affect outcomes in persons with multiple sclerosis warrants consideration. Funding Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR); German Research Foundation (DFG).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Graf
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Huah Shin Ng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | - Feng Zhu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yinshan Zhao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - José MA. Wijnands
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Charity Evans
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - John D. Fisk
- Nova Scotia Health Authority and the Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, and Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Ruth Ann Marrie
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Community Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Helen Tremlett
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jamali F, Aldughmi M, Atiani S, Al-Radaideh A, Dahbour S, Alhattab D, Khwaireh H, Arafat S, Jaghbeer JA, Rahmeh R, Abu Moshref K, Bawaneh H, Hassuneh MR, Hourani B, Ababneh O, Alghwiri A, Awidi A. Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis Patients: Phase I/II Dose-Finding Clinical Study. Cell Transplant 2024; 33:9636897241233045. [PMID: 38450623 PMCID: PMC10921855 DOI: 10.1177/09636897241233045] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neuro-inflammatory disease resulting in disabilities that negatively impact patients' life quality. While current treatment options do not reverse the course of the disease, treatment using mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSC) is promising. There has yet to be a consensus on the type and dose of MSC to be used in MS. This work aims to study the safety and efficacy of two treatment protocols of MSCs derived from the umbilical cord (UC-MSCs) and their secretome. The study included two groups of MS patients; Group A received two intrathecal doses of UC-MSCs, and Group B received a single dose. Both groups received UC-MSCs conditioned media 3 months post-treatment. Adverse events in the form of a clinical checklist and extensive laboratory tests were performed. Whole transcriptome analysis was performed on patients' cells at baseline and post-treatment. Results showed that all patients tolerated the cellular therapy without serious adverse events. The general disability scale improved significantly in both groups at 6 months post-treatment. Examining specific aspects of the disease revealed more parameters that improved in Group A compared to Group B patients, including a significant increase in the (CD3+CD4+) expressing lymphocytes at 12 months post-treatment. In addition, better outcomes were noted regarding lesion load, cortical thickness, manual dexterity, and information processing speed. Both protocols impacted the transcriptome of treated participants with genes, transcription factors, and microRNAs (miRNAs) differentially expressed compared to baseline. Inflammation-related and antigen-presenting (HLA-B) genes were downregulated in both groups. In contrast, TNF-alpha, TAP-1, and miR142 were downregulated only in Group A. The data presented indicate that both protocols are safe. Furthermore, it suggests that administering two doses of stem cells can be more beneficial to MS patients. Larger multisite studies should be initiated to further examine similar or higher doses of MSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Jamali
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mayis Aldughmi
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Serin Atiani
- Data Science Department, Princess Sumaya University for Technology, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ali Al-Radaideh
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
- Laboratory of Nanomedicine, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Said Dahbour
- Department of Medical Imaging, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Dana Alhattab
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
- Department of Medical Radiography, School of Health Sciences, University of Doha for Science and Technology, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hind Khwaireh
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Sally Arafat
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Joud Al Jaghbeer
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Reem Rahmeh
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Hisham Bawaneh
- Hematology Department, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mona R. Hassuneh
- Department of Applied Biology, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Bayan Hourani
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Osameh Ababneh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jordan University Hospital, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Alia Alghwiri
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Abdalla Awidi
- Cell Therapy Center, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
- Hematology Department, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lv B, Gao X, Zeng G, Guo H, Li F. Safety Profile of Paxlovid in the Treatment of COVID-19. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:666-675. [PMID: 38415446 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128280987240214103432] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the urgent and widespread application of Paxlovid, a novel antiviral drug for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in clinical practice, concerns regarding its actual efficacy and safety have emerged. In order to provide more evidence to support its clinical application, we sought to perform a descriptive analysis of cases who experienced at least one Paxlovid-related adverse event (AEs) and reported to the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) in the post-marketing period. METHODS Individual adverse event reports between January 1, 2022 and September 30, 2022, were downloaded from the FAERS website. We completed a descriptive study about the safety of Paxlovid in the treatment of COVID-19. Further, we also analyzed the onset time of Paxlovid-related AEs. RESULTS As of 30 September 2022, 16,529 de-duplicated cases were submitted to the FDA, and 5,860 (35.45%) were female. The average age was 58.38 years (S.D. 15.50). Most reports (12,390, 74.96%) were submitted by consumers and 1,436 (8.68%) concerned serious outcomes. The most frequently reported AEs were disease recurrence (7,724, 16.23%), dysgeusia (2,877, 6.05%), and diarrhoea (1,448, 3.04%). The median onset time of Paxlovid-related AEs was 8 days (interquartile range,1-10 days), and most of the cases (2,629, 19.12%) occurred on the day after Paxlovid initiation. CONCLUSION This study indicates that the most common AEs reported with Paxlovid in post-marketing experience are consistent with the safety assessment of antiviral drugs. Even without emerging apparent safety concerns, the incidence of serious outcomes was unexpectedly high, and a few cases of potential new AEs occurred.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bing Lv
- Department of Emergency, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xin Gao
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Guoqiang Zeng
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Hui Guo
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| | - Faping Li
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, Jilin Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Greenfield J, Metz LM, Khakban A, Llorian ER, Michaux KD, Traboulsee A, Oh J, Smyth P, Lynd LD, Bulloch AGM, Williams JVA, Patten SB. Cancer risk, disease-modifying therapy, and age in multiple sclerosis: A retrospective population-based cohort study. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 80:105091. [PMID: 37924714 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.105091] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term population-based safety studies are needed to investigate cancer outcomes in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated with modern disease-modifying therapy (DMT). OBJECTIVES To investigate if exposure to DMT increases the risk of invasive cancer in MS. METHODS We used population-based administrative health data from Alberta, Canada between 2008 and 2018. DMT exposure was defined in two ways: first as exposure to any DMT, and second by DMT type (modulating, sequestering, depleting). Study outcome was time to first diagnosis of invasive cancer. Cancer risk was compared to the general population using standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and to the unexposed MS cases using hazard ratios (HRs). RESULTS The analysis included 14,313 MS cases: 5,801 (40.5 %) were exposed to DMT. Median (interquartile range) follow-up was 8.4 (4.3, 10.4) years. Compared to the general population, there was no difference in cancer risk for the overall MS population (SIR: 0.94, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 0.87, 1.02) or the DMT-exposed MS cases (SIR: 0.89; 95 % CI: 0.75, 1.05). Compared to unexposed MS cases, we found an interaction with age for exposure to any DMT (p = 0.001) and modulating DMT (p = 0.001), indicating that a difference in the risk of cancer associated with DMT depends on age. Cancer risk was not associated with exposure to sequestering DMT (HR: 1.28, 95 % CI: 0.78, 2.08) or depleting DMT (HR: 2.29, 95 % CI: 0.86, 6.14). CONCLUSIONS Cancer risk for MS patients was similar to the general population. In the MS population, the age-dependent effect of DMT for cancer risk suggests a higher risk of cancer with age 62 or older and a protective effect at younger age. Further investigation is required to clarify whether the interaction between DMT exposure and age is a causal effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Greenfield
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, 9th Floor South Tower, Foothills Medical centre, 1403 29 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada.
| | - Luanne M Metz
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, 9th Floor South Tower, Foothills Medical centre, 1403 29 Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9, Canada
| | - Amir Khakban
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Elisabet Rodriguez Llorian
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kristina D Michaux
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Anthony Traboulsee
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jiwon Oh
- Division of Neurology, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Penelope Smyth
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Larry D Lynd
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (CHÉOS), St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrew G M Bulloch
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jeanne V A Williams
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Scott B Patten
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jacober SLS, Disanto G, Sacco R, Meng D, Mallucci G, Candrian U, Semini S, Tiberti M, Gobbi C, Zecca C. Interplay between age and disease-modifying treatments in influencing infection risk in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2023; 29:1765-1775. [PMID: 37786964 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231199820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) can increase the risk of infections in multiple sclerosis (MS). Aged individuals are usually excluded from clinical trials, and there is uncertainty regarding safety of immunosuppressive DMTs in these patients. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association of DMTs, ageing and other clinical variables with risk of infections in MS patients. METHODS Prospective single-centre observational study collecting information on occurrence, type and grade of infections in patients followed at the MS centre, Lugano (Switzerland). Associations with infection risk were tested using multivariable Poisson and Cox regressions. RESULTS A total of 503 patients were included (injectables/untreated, n = 127; orals, n = 139; monoclonal antibodies (MAB), n = 237) and 326 infections recorded over 12.6 (11.6-14.0) months. As compared to injectable DMTs/no treatment, MAB and oral DMTs were positively associated with infection incidence (IRR = 2.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.39-3.89, p = 0.001; IRR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.19-3.49, p = 0.009, respectively). After excluding COVID-19, the effect of MAB was stronger among patients <50 years (IRR = 5.90, 95% CI = 2.80-12.45, p < 0.001) than >50 years (IRR = 1.95, 95% CI = 0.91-4.15, p = 0.084). Higher disability and male sex were the only variables associated with severe infections. CONCLUSION Treatment with MAB and oral DMTs is associated with higher incidence of infections, with a stronger effect in young MS patients. Disability appears the main predictor of severe infections regardless of treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Lena Susanna Jacober
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Giulio Disanto
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Rosaria Sacco
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Delania Meng
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Giulia Mallucci
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Ursula Candrian
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Sebastiano Semini
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Massimiliano Tiberti
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Claudio Gobbi
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Zecca
- Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Regional Hospital of Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Lugano, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bose G, Healy BC, Saxena S, Saleh F, Glanz BI, Bakshi R, Weiner HL, Chitnis T. Increasing Neurofilament and Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein After Treatment Discontinuation Predicts Multiple Sclerosis Disease Activity. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2023; 10:e200167. [PMID: 37813595 PMCID: PMC10574823 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Stable patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) may discontinue treatment, but the risk of disease activity is unknown. Serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) and serum glial fibrillary acidic protein (sGFAP) are biomarkers of subclinical disease activity and may help risk stratification. In this study, sNfL and sGFAP levels in stable patients were evaluated before and after treatment discontinuation to determine association with disease activity. METHODS This observational study included patients enrolled in the Comprehensive Longitudinal Investigation in MS at the Brigham and Women's Hospital who discontinued treatment after >2 years disease activity-free. Two serum samples within 2 years, before and after treatment stop, were sent for sNfL and sGFAP measurements by single-molecule array. Biannual neurologic examinations and yearly MRI scans determined disease activity by 3 time-to-event outcomes: 6-month confirmed disability worsening (CDW), clinical attacks, and MRI activity (new T2 or contrast-enhancing lesions). Associations between each outcome and log-transformed sNfL and sGFAP levels pretreatment stop and posttreatment stop and the percent change were estimated using multivariable Cox regression analysis adjusting for age, disability, disease duration, and duration from attack before treatment stop. RESULTS Seventy-eight patients (92% female) discontinued treatment at a median (interquartile range) age of 48.5 years (39.0-55.7) and disease duration of 12.3 years (7.5-18.8) and were followed up for 6.3 years (4.2-8.5). CDW occurred in 27 patients (35%), new attacks in 19 (24%), and new MRI activity in 26 (33%). Higher posttreatment stop sNfL level was associated with CDW (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 2.80, 95% CI 1.36-5.76, p = 0.005) and new MRI activity (aHR 3.09, 95% CI 1.42-6.70, p = 0.004). Patients who had >100% increase in sNfL level from pretreatment stop to posttreatment stop had greater risk of CDW (HR 3.87, 95% CI 1.4-10.7, p = 0.009) and developing new MRI activity (HR 4.02, 95% CI 1.51-10.7, p = 0.005). Patients who had >50% increase in sGFAP level also had greater risk of CDW (HR 5.34, 95% CI 1.4-19.9, p = 0.012) and developing new MRI activity (HR 5.16, 95% CI 1.71-15.6, p = 0.004). DISCUSSION Stable patients who discontinue treatment may be risk stratified by sNfL and sGFAP levels measured before and after discontinuing treatment. Further studies are needed to validate findings and determine whether resuming treatment in patients with increasing biomarker levels reduces risk of subsequent disease activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gauruv Bose
- From the Department of Neurology (G.B., B.C.H., S.S., F.S., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School (G.B., B.C.H., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Boston, MA; The University of Ottawa and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (G.B.), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Brian C Healy
- From the Department of Neurology (G.B., B.C.H., S.S., F.S., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School (G.B., B.C.H., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Boston, MA; The University of Ottawa and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (G.B.), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Shrishti Saxena
- From the Department of Neurology (G.B., B.C.H., S.S., F.S., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School (G.B., B.C.H., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Boston, MA; The University of Ottawa and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (G.B.), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Fermisk Saleh
- From the Department of Neurology (G.B., B.C.H., S.S., F.S., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School (G.B., B.C.H., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Boston, MA; The University of Ottawa and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (G.B.), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Bonnie I Glanz
- From the Department of Neurology (G.B., B.C.H., S.S., F.S., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School (G.B., B.C.H., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Boston, MA; The University of Ottawa and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (G.B.), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Rohit Bakshi
- From the Department of Neurology (G.B., B.C.H., S.S., F.S., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School (G.B., B.C.H., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Boston, MA; The University of Ottawa and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (G.B.), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Howard L Weiner
- From the Department of Neurology (G.B., B.C.H., S.S., F.S., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School (G.B., B.C.H., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Boston, MA; The University of Ottawa and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (G.B.), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Tanuja Chitnis
- From the Department of Neurology (G.B., B.C.H., S.S., F.S., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School (G.B., B.C.H., B.I.G., R.B., H.L.W., T.C.), Boston, MA; The University of Ottawa and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (G.B.), Ottawa, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Langer-Gould AM, Smith JB, Gonzales EG, Piehl F, Li BH. Multiple Sclerosis, Disease-Modifying Therapies, and Infections. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2023; 10:e200164. [PMID: 37813594 PMCID: PMC10574822 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The use of highly effective multiple sclerosis (MS) disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) is rapidly increasing. Yet, little is known about their real-world risks of infections. The goals of this study were to assess the comparative risk of outpatient and serious infections across DMTs in a large, diverse, U.S. cohort and determine whether such risks are attributable to DMTs, having MS, or other factors. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of Kaiser Permanente Southern California members from 2008 through 2020 with MS and non-MS controls matched on age, sex, race, and ethnicity. MS treatments, serious (those requiring hospitalization) and outpatient infections, and covariates were collected from the electronic health record. Adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and risk ratios (aRR) were estimated using the Cox and Poisson regression, respectively. RESULTS Six thousand, six hundred and twenty-six patients with MS with 11,929 treatment episodes (2,487 rituximab, 546 natalizumab, 298 fingolimod, 4,629 interferon-beta/glatiramer acetate, IFN/GLAT, and 3,969 untreated) and 33,550 population controls were included in the analyses. The average age at treatment start ranged from 38.9 to 49.2 years, and 74% were women. Untreated (aRR = 1.39, [95% CI = 1.35-1.44]) and IFN/GLAT-treated patients with MS (aRR = 1.60, [95% CI = 1.56-1.65]) had a higher risk of outpatient infections and serious infections (aHR = 2.97, [95% CI = 2.65-3.32 and aHR = 2.31, [95% CI = 2.04-2.62], respectively) compared with controls. Rituximab (aRR = 1.19, [95% CI = 1.14-1.25]), fingolimod (aRR = 1.22, [95% CI = 1.09-1.37]), and to a lesser extent, natalizumab treatment (aRR = 1.08, [95% CI = 0.97-1.20]) were associated with an increased risk of outpatient infections compared with IFN/GLAT. Rituximab (aHR = 1.41, [95% CI = 1.09-1.84]) and natalizumab (aHR = 1.40, [95% CI = 0.96-2.04]) treatment were associated with a similar increased risk of serious infections compared with IFN/GLAT. The only treatment-specific association identified was fingolimod with outpatient herpetic infections. Higher comorbidity index, previous hospitalization for infections, and advanced disability significantly increased the risk of serious infections independent of DMTs. Hospitalization for UTI-related pseudorelapses accounted for 24%-48% of serious infections. DISCUSSION Patients with MS have higher risks of outpatient and serious infections compared with patients without MS. The risk of outpatient infections was similarly increased by rituximab and fingolimod and serious infections by rituximab and natalizumab compared with IFN/GLAT. Steps to minimize risks include optimizing bladder care, comorbidity prevention, varicella vaccination, and considering discontinuing or avoiding DMT use in patients with advanced disability and/or previous hospitalizations for infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annette M Langer-Gould
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group; Department of Research and Evaluation (J.B.S., E.G.G., B.H.L.), Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Pasadena; and Department of Clinical Neuroscience (F.P.), Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Jessica B Smith
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group; Department of Research and Evaluation (J.B.S., E.G.G., B.H.L.), Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Pasadena; and Department of Clinical Neuroscience (F.P.), Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Edlin G Gonzales
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group; Department of Research and Evaluation (J.B.S., E.G.G., B.H.L.), Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Pasadena; and Department of Clinical Neuroscience (F.P.), Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Piehl
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group; Department of Research and Evaluation (J.B.S., E.G.G., B.H.L.), Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Pasadena; and Department of Clinical Neuroscience (F.P.), Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bonnie H Li
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group; Department of Research and Evaluation (J.B.S., E.G.G., B.H.L.), Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Pasadena; and Department of Clinical Neuroscience (F.P.), Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Prosperini L, Haggiag S, Ruggieri S, Tortorella C, Gasperini C. Stopping Disease-Modifying Treatments in Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Real-World Studies. CNS Drugs 2023; 37:915-927. [PMID: 37740822 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-023-01038-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The question of whether multiple sclerosis requires life-long disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) remains unanswered. Some studies suggest that older patients with stable disease may safely discontinue their DMTs, yet comprehensive evidence-based data are scarce and real-world studies have provided mixed results. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the rate of disease reactivation and associated risk factors after discontinuation of DMTs in patients with multiple sclerosis. METHODS We searched scientific databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and Google Scholar) to identify real-world studies published until 31 July, 2023 that reported the number of patients who experienced relapses and/or disability accrual (outcomes of interest) following a therapy discontinuation longer than 12 months. Magnetic resonance activity and treatment re-start after DMT discontinuation were also considered as additional outcomes. We excluded studies where therapy discontinuation was explicitly related to an unintended or planned pregnancy or preceded a treatment switch. We ran random-effects meta-analyses, subgroup analyses and meta-regression models to provide pooled estimates of post-discontinuation relapse and disability events, and to identify their potential moderators (predictors). RESULTS After an independent screening, 22 articles met the eligibility criteria, yielding a pooled sample size of 2942 patients followed for 1-7 years after discontinuation (11,689 patient-years). The pooled rates for relapse and disability events were 6.7 and 5.8 per 100 patient-years, respectively. However, available data did not allow us to disentangle isolated disability accrual from relapse-associated worsening. Studies including older patients (β = -0.65, p = 0.006), patients with a longer exposure to DMTs (β = -2.22, p = 0.001) and patients with a longer period of disease stability (β = -2.74, p = 0.002) showed a lower risk of relapse events. According to meta-regression equations, the risk of relapse events after DMT discontinuation became negligible (arbitrarily set at < 1% per year) at approximately 60 years of age, and after either 10 years of DMT exposure, or 8 years of disease stability. Additional analyses showed pooled rates for magnetic resonance imaging activity and re-start events of 16.7 and 17.5 per 100 patient-years, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Based on our quantitative synthesis of real-world data, in the absence of definitive answers from clinical trials, DMT discontinuation appears feasible with a high degree of certainty in selected patients. While our findings are robust regarding relapse events, future efforts are warranted to determine if DMT discontinuation is associated with isolated disability accrual.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Prosperini
- Department of Neurology, S. Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, C.ne Gianicolense 87, 00152, Rome, Italy.
| | - Shalom Haggiag
- Department of Neurology, S. Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, C.ne Gianicolense 87, 00152, Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Ruggieri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University, Viale dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64/65, 00143, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Tortorella
- Department of Neurology, S. Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, C.ne Gianicolense 87, 00152, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Gasperini
- Department of Neurology, S. Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, C.ne Gianicolense 87, 00152, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pozzilli C, Pugliatti M, Vermersch P, Grigoriadis N, Alkhawajah M, Airas L, Oreja-Guevara C. Diagnosis and treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis: A position paper. Eur J Neurol 2023; 30:9-21. [PMID: 36209464 PMCID: PMC10092602 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable disease characterised by a highly variable disease onset and clinical course. Three main clinical phenotypes have been described. However, distinguishing between the two progressive forms of MS can be challenging for clinicians. This article examines how the diagnostic definitions of progressive MS impact clinical research, the design of clinical trials and, ultimately, treatment decisions. METHODS We carried out an extensive review of the literature highlighting differences in the definition of progressive forms of MS, and the importance of assessing the extent of the ongoing inflammatory component in MS when making treatment decisions. RESULTS Inconsistent results in phase III clinical studies of treatments for progressive MS, may be attributable to differences in patient characteristics (e.g., age, clinical and radiological activity at baseline) and endpoint definitions. In both primary and secondary progressive MS, patients who are younger and have more active disease will derive the greatest benefit from the available treatments. CONCLUSIONS We recommend making treatment decisions based on the individual patient's pattern of disease progression, as well as functional, clinical and imaging parameters, rather than on their clinical phenotype. Because the definition of progressive MS differs across clinical studies, careful selection of eligibility criteria and study endpoints is needed for future studies in patients with progressive MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Pozzilli
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy.,Department of Human Neuroscience, University Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Maura Pugliatti
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Interdepartmental Center of Research for Multiple Sclerosis and Neuro-inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Patrick Vermersch
- Inserm U1172 LilNCog, CHU Lille, FHU Precise, University of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Nikolaos Grigoriadis
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology and Neuroimmunology, Second Department of Neurology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Mona Alkhawajah
- Section of Neurology, Neurosciences Center, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, College of Medicine, Al Faisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Laura Airas
- Division of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Neurocenter of Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Celia Oreja-Guevara
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clinico San Carlos, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bose G, Healy BC, Barro C, Glanz BI, Lokhande HA, Polgar-Turcsanyi M, Guttmann CR, Bakshi R, Weiner HL, Chitnis T. Younger age at multiple sclerosis onset is associated with worse outcomes at age 50. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2022; 93:jnnp-2022-329353. [PMID: 35953266 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2022-329353] [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: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Older age at multiple sclerosis (MS) onset has been associated with worse 10-year outcomes. However, disease duration often exceeds 10 years and age-related comorbidities may also contribute to disability. We investigated patients with>10 years disease duration to determine how age at MS onset is associated with clinical, MRI and occupational outcomes at age 50. METHODS We included patients enrolled in the Comprehensive Longitudinal Investigation of Multiple Sclerosis at the Brigham and Women's Hospital with disease duration>10 years. Outcomes at age 50 included the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), development of secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS), brain T2-lesion volume (T2LV) and brain parenchymal fraction (BPF), and occupational status. We assessed how onset age was independently associated with each outcome when adjusting for the date of visit closest to age 50, sex, time to first treatment, number of treatments by age 50 and exposure to high-efficacy treatments by age 50. RESULTS We included 661 patients with median onset at 31.4 years. The outcomes at age 50 were worse the younger first symptoms developed: for every 5 years earlier, the EDSS was 0.22 points worse (95% CI: 0.04 to 0.40; p=0.015), odds of SPMS 1.33 times higher (95% CI: 1.08 to 1.64; p=0.008), T2LV 1.86 mL higher (95% CI: 1.02 to 2.70; p<0.001), BPF 0.97% worse (95% CI: 0.52 to 1.42; p<0.001) and odds of unemployment from MS 1.24 times higher (95% CI: 1.01 to 1.53; p=0.037). CONCLUSIONS All outcomes at age 50 were worse in patients with younger age at onset. Decisions to provide high-efficacy treatments should consider younger age at onset, equating to a longer expected disease duration, as a poor prognostic factor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gauruv Bose
- Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brian C Healy
- Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christian Barro
- Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bonnie I Glanz
- Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Mariann Polgar-Turcsanyi
- Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Rohit Bakshi
- Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Howard L Weiner
- Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tanuja Chitnis
- Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Interrogating large multiple sclerosis registries and databases: what information can be gained? Curr Opin Neurol 2022; 35:271-277. [PMID: 35674068 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although substantial progress has been made in understanding the natural history of multiple sclerosis (MS) and the development of new therapies, many questions concerning disease behavior and therapeutics remain to be answered. Data generated from real-world observational studies, based on large MS registries and databases and analyzed with advanced statistical methods, are offering the scientific community answers to some of these questions that are otherwise difficult or impossible to address. This review focuses on observational studies published in the last 2 years designed to compare the effectiveness of escalation vs. induction treatment strategies, to assess the effectiveness of treatment in pediatric-onset and late-onset MS, and to identify the clinical phenotype of secondary progressive (SP)MS. RECENT FINDINGS The main findings originating from real-world studies suggest that MS patients who will qualify for high-efficacy disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) should be offered these as early as possible to prevent irreversible accumulation of neurological disability. Especially pediatric patients derive substantial benefits from early treatment. In patients with late-onset MS, sustained exposure to DMTs may result in more favorable outcomes. Data-driven definitions are more accurate in defining transition to SPMS than diagnosis based solely on neurologists' judgment. SUMMARY Patients, physicians, industry, and policy-makers have all benefited from real-world evidence based on registry data, in answering questions of diagnostics, choice of treatment, and timing of treatment decisions.
Collapse
|
20
|
Prosperini L, Lucchini M, Ruggieri S, Tortorella C, Haggiag S, Mirabella M, Pozzilli C, Gasperini C. Shift of multiple sclerosis onset towards older age. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2022; 93:jnnp-2022-329049. [PMID: 35477891 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2022-329049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore whether age at onset increased over time despite a shortened interval from the initial clinical demyelinating event to the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), as promoted by updated diagnostic criteria. METHODS This was an independent, multicentre, retrospective study based on data from 4345 patients with relapsing-onset MS attending three tertiary MS Clinics in Italy. After stratifying the year of MS onset into four periods (<1991, 1991-2000, 2001-2010, 2011-2021), we analysed the temporal trends in age at onset and interval from onset to diagnosis; we then explored the female-to-male ratio and onset location across different classes of age at onset. RESULTS We observed an increased mean age at onset, and a shortened mean interval to diagnosis over time (p<0.0001). Accordingly, there were more MS onsets at the older age classes of 40-49, 50-59 and ≥60 years (p<0.0001). In cases with age at onset ≥40 years, we also found an increased female-to-male ratio (p=0.007), more frequent spinal cord (p=0.0004) and less frequent supratentorial onset (p=0.008). CONCLUSION Our study shows a forward shift towards an older age at onset of MS, thus suggesting considerable thought on the place-in-therapy of most currently used disease-modifying treatments, and on the standard of care to an older population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Prosperini
- Dept. of Neurosciences, S. Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, Roma, Italy
| | - Matteo Lucchini
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Neurologia, Roma, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dip.to di Neuroscienze, Centro di Ricerca per la Sclerosi Multipla (CERSM), Roma, Italy
| | - Serena Ruggieri
- Dept. of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University, Roma, Italy
- Neuroimmunology Unit, S. Lucia Foundation, Roma, Italy
| | - Carla Tortorella
- Dept. of Neurosciences, S. Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, Roma, Italy
| | - Shalom Haggiag
- Dept. of Neurosciences, S. Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, Roma, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Mirabella
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Neurologia, Roma, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dip.to di Neuroscienze, Centro di Ricerca per la Sclerosi Multipla (CERSM), Roma, Italy
| | - Carlo Pozzilli
- Dept. of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University, Roma, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lucchini M, Del Giacomo P, De Arcangelis V, Nociti V, Bianco A, De Fino C, Presicce G, Cicia A, Carlomagno V, Mirabella M. The Expanding Role of the Infectious Disease Expert in the Context of the MS Centre. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12040591. [PMID: 35455707 PMCID: PMC9026290 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12040591] [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: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The complexity of the MS patient’s management is constantly growing. Consequently, the MS care unit requires a multidisciplinary approach, including an infectious disease specialist to minimise the risk of infectious complications related both to the disease and DMTs. Materials and methods: We retrospectively evaluated the infectious disease consultations performed from 2015 to 2019 in our MS centre. Results: We identified 107 patients with at least one infectious disease consultation out of 1088 patients. We found a progressive increase in the number of consultations from 2015 to 2019. Nearly half of the consultations were requested at the time of starting MS treatment. The most frequent requests were represented by chronic or acute infections. The most prevalent infectious agents were Herpesviridae and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Antibiotic or antiviral treatment and prophylactic treatment or vaccination represented together the most frequent outcomes of the consultations. Finally, a treatment delay was significantly associated with the advice of a prophylactic treatment or of a vaccination. Conclusion: There is an increasing awareness of the potential infectious complications of MS and of exposure to DMTs. The interaction between the MS neurologist and infectious disease specialist is fundamental to minimise the infectious risk related to the disease and to the DMTs, with a progressive shift from complication management to a broader prevention workup at the time of MS diagnosis, including both vaccination and prophylactic treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Lucchini
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.A.); (V.N.); (A.B.); (C.D.F.); (A.C.); (V.C.); (M.M.)
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, CERSM, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-30155390
| | - Paola Del Giacomo
- UOC Malattie Infettive, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Valeria De Arcangelis
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.A.); (V.N.); (A.B.); (C.D.F.); (A.C.); (V.C.); (M.M.)
| | - Viviana Nociti
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.A.); (V.N.); (A.B.); (C.D.F.); (A.C.); (V.C.); (M.M.)
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, CERSM, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Assunta Bianco
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.A.); (V.N.); (A.B.); (C.D.F.); (A.C.); (V.C.); (M.M.)
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, CERSM, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara De Fino
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.A.); (V.N.); (A.B.); (C.D.F.); (A.C.); (V.C.); (M.M.)
| | | | - Alessandra Cicia
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.A.); (V.N.); (A.B.); (C.D.F.); (A.C.); (V.C.); (M.M.)
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, CERSM, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Carlomagno
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.A.); (V.N.); (A.B.); (C.D.F.); (A.C.); (V.C.); (M.M.)
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, CERSM, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Mirabella
- UOC Neurologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (V.D.A.); (V.N.); (A.B.); (C.D.F.); (A.C.); (V.C.); (M.M.)
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, CERSM, 00168 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Buscarinu MC, Reniè R, Morena E, Romano C, Bellucci G, Marrone A, Bigi R, Salvetti M, Ristori G. Late-Onset MS: Disease Course and Safety-Efficacy of DMTS. Front Neurol 2022; 13:829331. [PMID: 35356454 PMCID: PMC8960027 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.829331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS), an inflammatory demyelinating and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system, usually begins between the ages of 20 and 49 years, though in rare cases it is diagnosed in childhood and adolescence before the age of 18 years, or at the age of 50 years and later. When the onset of the disease occurs at 50 years or older it is conventionally defined as late onset MS (LOMS). Compared to classical MS, the LOMS is characterized by progressive course, a greater delay in diagnosis and a higher prevalence of motor disability. The older the patients, the greater is the risk of comorbidities that can negatively influence the course of the disease and can limit therapeutic strategies. To date, there is no study focused on the efficacy of Disease Modifying Therapies (DMT) in older patients with MS. The only data available are retrievable from subgroup analysis from phase-3 trials of DMT efficacy. In this work, we discuss how the aging process influences the onset, the clinical course and the therapeutic approach in LOMS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Chiara Buscarinu
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- Neuroimmunology Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Reniè
- Department of Clinical-Experimental Neuroscience and Psychiatry, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuele Morena
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmela Romano
- Department of Clinical-Experimental Neuroscience and Psychiatry, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Bellucci
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Marrone
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Bigi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Salvetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo (INM) Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- *Correspondence: Marco Salvetti
| | - Giovanni Ristori
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- Neuroimmunology Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
- Giovanni Ristori
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ng HS, Graf J, Zhu F, Kingwell E, Aktas O, Albrecht P, Hartung HP, Meuth SG, Evans C, Fisk JD, Marrie RA, Zhao Y, Tremlett H. Disease-Modifying Drug Uptake and Health Service Use in the Ageing MS Population. Front Immunol 2022; 12:794075. [PMID: 35095869 PMCID: PMC8792855 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.794075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Evidence regarding the efficacy or effectiveness of the disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) in the older multiple sclerosis (MS) population is scarce. This has contributed to a lack of evidence-based treatment recommendations for the ageing MS population in practice guidelines. We examined the relationship between age (<55 and ≥55 years), DMD exposure and health service use in the MS population. Methods We conducted a population-based observational study using linked administrative health data from British Columbia, Canada. We selected all persons with MS and followed from the most recent of their first MS or demyelinating event, 18th birthday or 01-January-1996 (index date) until the earliest of emigration, death or 31-December-2017 (study end). We assessed DMD exposure status over time, initially as any versus no DMD, then by generation (first or second) and finally by each individual DMD. Age-specific analyses were conducted with all-cause hospitalizations and number of physician visits assessed using proportional means model and negative binomial regression with generalized estimating equations. Results We included 19,360 persons with MS (72% were women); 10,741/19,360 (56%) had ever reached their 55th birthday. Person-years of follow-up whilst aged <55 was 132,283, and 93,594 whilst aged ≥55. Any DMD, versus no DMD in the <55-year-olds was associated with a 23% lower hazard of hospitalization (adjusted hazard ratio, aHR0.77; 95%CI 0.72-0.82), but not in the ≥55-year-olds (aHR0.95; 95%CI 0.87-1.04). Similar patterns were observed for the first and second generation DMDs. Exposure to any (versus no) DMD was not associated with rates of physician visits in either age group (<55 years: adjusted rate ratio, aRR1.02; 95%CI 1.00-1.04 and ≥55 years: aRR1.00; 95%CI 0.96-1.03), but variation in aRR was observed across the individual DMDs. Conclusion Our study showed beneficial effects of the DMDs used to treat MS on hospitalizations for those aged <55 at the time of exposure. In contrast, for individuals ≥55 years of age exposed to a DMD, the hazard of hospitalization was not significantly lowered. Our study contributes to the broader understanding of the potential benefits and risks of DMD use in the ageing MS population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huah Shin Ng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jonas Graf
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Feng Zhu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Elaine Kingwell
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Research Department of Primary Care & Population Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Orhan Aktas
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Philipp Albrecht
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Hartung
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany.,Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Neurology, Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Sven G Meuth
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Charity Evans
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - John D Fisk
- Nova Scotia Health Authority and the Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, and Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Ruth Ann Marrie
- Department of Internal Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Yinshan Zhao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Helen Tremlett
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Perdaens O, van Pesch V. Molecular Mechanisms of Immunosenescene and Inflammaging: Relevance to the Immunopathogenesis and Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis. Front Neurol 2022; 12:811518. [PMID: 35281989 PMCID: PMC8913495 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.811518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is characterized, amongst other features, by a complex process of cellular senescence involving both innate and adaptive immunity, called immunosenescence and associated to inflammaging, a low-grade chronic inflammation. Both processes fuel each other and partially explain increasing incidence of cancers, infections, age-related autoimmunity, and vascular disease as well as a reduced response to vaccination. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong disease, for which considerable progress in disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and management has improved long-term survival. However, disability progression, increasing with age and disease duration, remains. Neurologists are now involved in caring for elderly MS patients, with increasing comorbidities. Aging of the immune system therefore has relevant implications for MS pathogenesis, response to DMTs and the risks mediated by these treatments. We propose to review current evidence regarding markers and molecular mechanisms of immunosenescence and their relevance to understanding MS pathogenesis. We will focus on age-related changes in the innate and adaptive immune system in MS and other auto-immune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. The consequences of these immune changes on MS pathology, in interaction with the intrinsic aging process of central nervous system resident cells will be discussed. Finally, the impact of immunosenescence on disease evolution and on the safety and efficacy of current DMTs will be presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Océane Perdaens
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vincent van Pesch
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain), Brussels, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Vincent van Pesch
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Dalla Costa G, Leocani L, Comi G. Ofatumumab subcutaneous injection for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2022; 18:105-114. [PMID: 35107057 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2022.2031982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In recent years, different studies have highlighted the importance of B cells in the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS): they secrete cytokines to modulate the inflammatory environment, present antigens for the activation of T lymphocytes, and they secrete antibodies contributing to the destruction of the myelin sheath. Combined, these findings have lead to new possible means for treating MS. AREAS COVERED In this review, we provide an up-to-date overview of the characteristics of ofatumumab (aka Kesimpta), and the differences between this drug and the other anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies used to treat MS. EXPERT OPINION The evolution of disease-modifying treatment algorithms in MS underlines the importance of starting treatment as soon as the diagnosis is defined, and with adequate "treatment intensity". Monoclonal antibodies and other aggressive treatments are now considered as an option at the clinical presentation of the disease, based to the prognostic profile emerging through clinical and paraclinical investigations. The recent adoption of new diagnostic criteria allows for the early diagnosis of MS. This, together with the availability of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), such as ofatumumab, with a good efficacy/safety profile and which are easy to administer, could contribute to significant improvements in the long-term prognosis of MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Dalla Costa
- Institute of Experimental Neurophysiology of San Raffaele Hospital, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy
| | - L Leocani
- Institute of Experimental Neurophysiology of San Raffaele Hospital, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy.,Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy
| | - G Comi
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy.,Casa di Cura Privata del Policlinico, via Dezza 48, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Vollmer BL, Wolf AB, Sillau S, Corboy JR, Alvarez E. Evolution of Disease Modifying Therapy Benefits and Risks: An Argument for De-escalation as a Treatment Paradigm for Patients With Multiple Sclerosis. Front Neurol 2022; 12:799138. [PMID: 35145470 PMCID: PMC8821102 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.799138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundStrategies for sequencing disease modifying therapies (DMTs) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients include escalation, high efficacy early, induction, and de-escalation.ObjectiveTo provide a perspective on de-escalation, which aims to match the ratio of DMT benefit/risk in aging patients.MethodsWe reanalyzed data from a retrospective, real-world cohort of MS patients to model disease activity for oral (dimethyl fumarate and fingolimod) and higher efficacy infusible (natalizumab and rituximab) DMTs by age. For patients with relapsing MS, we conducted a controlled, stratified analysis examining odds of disease activity for oral vs. infusible DMTs in patients <45 or ≥45 years. We reviewed the literature to identify DMT risks and predictors of safe discontinuation.ResultsYounger patients had lower probability of disease activity on infusible vs. oral DMTs. There was no statistical difference after age 54.2 years. When dichotomized, patients <45 years on oral DMTs had greater odds of disease activity compared to patients on infusible DMTs, while among those ≥45 years, there was no difference. Literature review noted that adverse events increase with aging, notably infections in patients with higher disability and longer DMT duration. Additionally, we identified factors predictive of disease reactivation including age, clinical stability, and MRI activity.ConclusionIn a real-world cohort of relapsing MS patients, high efficacy DMTs had less benefit with aging but were associated with increased risks. This cohort helps overcome some limitations of trials where older patients were excluded. To better balance benefits/risks, we propose a DMT de-escalation approach for aging MS patients.
Collapse
|
27
|
Papadopoulos D, Gklinos P, Psarros G, Drellia K, Delicha EM, Friede T, Mitsikostas DD, Nicholas RS. Disease-modifying treatments for multiple sclerosis have not affected the incidence of neoplasms in clinical trials over 3 decades: a meta-analysis with meta-regression. J Neurol 2022; 269:3226-3237. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10932-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
28
|
Inshasi JS, Alfahad S, Alsaadi T, Hassan A, Zein T, Mifsud VA, Nouri SI, Shakra M, Shatila AO, Szolics M, Thakre M, Kumar A, Boshra A. Position of Cladribine Tablets in the Management of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: An Expert Narrative Review From the United Arab Emirates. Neurol Ther 2021; 10:435-454. [PMID: 33891277 PMCID: PMC8062252 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-021-00243-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of immune reconstitution therapies (IRT) in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is associated with a prolonged period of freedom from relapses in the absence of continuously applied therapy. Cladribine tablets is a disease-modifying treatment (DMT) indicated for highly active relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) as defined by clinical or imaging features. Treatment with cladribine tablets is effective and well tolerated in patients with active MS disease and have a low burden of monitoring during and following treatment. In this article, an expert group of specialist neurologists involved in the care of patients with MS in the United Arab Emirates provides their consensus recommendations for the practical use of cladribine tablets according to the presenting phenotype of patients with RRMS. The IRT approach may be especially useful for patients with highly active MS insufficiently responsive to treatment with a first-line DMT, those who are likely to adhere poorly to a continuous therapeutic regimen, treatment-naïve patients with high disease activity at first presentation, or patients planning a family who are prepared to wait until at least 6 months after the end of treatment. Information available to date does not suggest an adverse interaction between cladribine tablets and COVID-19 infection. Data are unavailable at this time regarding the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccination in patients treated with cladribine tablets. Robust immunological responses to COVID-19 infection or to other vaccines have been observed in patients receiving this treatment, and treatment with cladribine tablets per se should not represent a barrier to this vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jihad S Inshasi
- Neurology Department, Rashid Hospital and Dubai Medical College, Dubai Health Authority (DHA), PO Box 4545, Dubai, UAE.
| | - Sarmed Alfahad
- Neurology Department, Neurospinal Hospital, Baghdad Medical College, Dubai, UAE
| | - Taoufik Alsaadi
- Neurology Department, American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology, Dubai, UAE
| | - Ali Hassan
- Neurology Medical Clinic, Tawam Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Tayseer Zein
- Neurology Department, AlQassami Hospital, Sharjah, UAE
| | | | | | - Mustafa Shakra
- Department of Neurology, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Miklos Szolics
- Neurology Medical Clinic, Tawam Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Mona Thakre
- Neurology Department, Al Zahra Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - Ajit Kumar
- Neurology Department, NMC Specialty Hospital, Al Nahda, Dubai, UAE
| | - Amir Boshra
- Merck Serono Middle East FZ Ltd, Dubai, UAE
- Merck KgaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Picón C, Tejeda-Velarde A, Fernández-Velasco JI, Comabella M, Álvarez-Lafuente R, Quintana E, Sainz de la Maza S, Monreal E, Villarrubia N, Álvarez-Cermeño JC, Domínguez-Mozo MI, Ramió-Torrentà L, Rodríguez-Martín E, Roldán E, Aladro Y, Medina S, Espiño M, Masjuan J, Matute-Blanch C, Muñoz-San Martín M, Espejo C, Guaza C, Muriel A, Costa-Frossard L, Villar LM. Identification of the Immunological Changes Appearing in the CSF During the Early Immunosenescence Process Occurring in Multiple Sclerosis. Front Immunol 2021; 12:685139. [PMID: 34322119 PMCID: PMC8311928 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.685139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) suffer with age an early immunosenescence process, which influence the treatment response and increase the risk of infections. We explored whether lipid-specific oligoclonal IgM bands (LS-OCMB) associated with highly inflammatory MS modify the immunological profile induced by age in MS. This cross-sectional study included 263 MS patients who were classified according to the presence (M+, n=72) and absence (M-, n=191) of LS-OCMB. CSF cellular subsets and molecules implicated in immunosenescence were explored. In M- patients, aging induced remarkable decreases in absolute CSF counts of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, including Th1 and Th17 cells, and of B cells, including those secreting TNF-alpha. It also increased serum anti-CMV IgG antibody titers (indicative of immunosenescence) and CSF CHI3L1 levels (related to astrocyte activation). In contrast, M+ patients showed an age-associated increase of TIM-3 (a biomarker of T cell exhaustion) and increased values of CHI3L1, independently of age. Finally, in both groups, age induced an increase in CSF levels of PD-L1 (an inductor of T cell tolerance) and activin A (part of the senescence-associated secretome and related to inflammaging). These changes were independent of the disease duration. Finally, this resulted in augmented disability. In summary, all MS patients experience with age a modest induction of T-cell tolerance and an activation of the innate immunity, resulting in increased disability. Additionally, M- patients show clear decreases in CSF lymphocyte numbers, which could increase the risk of infections. Thus, age and immunological status are important for tailoring effective therapies in MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Picón
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigacón Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Brain Science, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amalia Tejeda-Velarde
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigacón Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - José Ignacio Fernández-Velasco
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigacón Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Comabella
- Servei de Neurologia-Neuroimmunologia, Centre d’ Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Vall d’ Hebron Institut de Recerca, Hospital Universitari Vall d’ Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roberto Álvarez-Lafuente
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), REEM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ester Quintana
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital Dr. Josep Trueta, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Girona (IDIBGI), Girona, Medical Sciences Department, Universitat de Girona, REEM, Girona, Spain
| | | | - Enric Monreal
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, REEM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Noelia Villarrubia
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigacón Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - María Inmaculada Domínguez-Mozo
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), REEM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lluís Ramió-Torrentà
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital Dr. Josep Trueta, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Girona (IDIBGI), Girona, Medical Sciences Department, Universitat de Girona, REEM, Girona, Spain
| | - Eulalia Rodríguez-Martín
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigacón Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ernesto Roldán
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigacón Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Yolanda Aladro
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, REEM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Medina
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigacón Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Espiño
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigacón Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jaime Masjuan
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, REEM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Matute-Blanch
- Servei de Neurologia-Neuroimmunologia, Centre d’ Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Vall d’ Hebron Institut de Recerca, Hospital Universitari Vall d’ Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Muñoz-San Martín
- Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital Dr. Josep Trueta, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Girona (IDIBGI), Girona, Medical Sciences Department, Universitat de Girona, REEM, Girona, Spain
| | - Carmen Espejo
- Servei de Neurologia-Neuroimmunologia, Centre d’ Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Vall d’ Hebron Institut de Recerca, Hospital Universitari Vall d’ Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Guaza
- Neuroimmunology Group, Functional and Systems Neurobiology Department, Instituto Cajal, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Muriel
- Clinical Biostatistics Unit, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, CIBERESP, Nursing Department, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Luisa María Villar
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigacón Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Strijbis EMM, Kerbrat A, Corboy JR. Discontinuation of Disease-Modifying Therapy in Multiple Sclerosis: Should We Stay or Should We Go? JAMA Neurol 2021; 78:787-788. [PMID: 33871561 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2021.0764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eva M M Strijbis
- MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anne Kerbrat
- Department of Neurology, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France
| | - John R Corboy
- Rocky Mountain Multiple Sclerosis Center at Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Denver
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Otero-Romero S, Sánchez-Montalvá A, Vidal-Jordana A. Assessing and mitigating risk of infection in patients with multiple sclerosis on disease modifying treatment. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2021; 17:285-300. [PMID: 33543657 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2021.1886924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The important development that the multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment field has experienced in the last years comes along with the need of dealing with new adverse events such as the increase risk of infections. In the shared therapeutic decision-making process, the MS expert neurologist should also balance the risks of specific infections under each particular treatment and be familiar with new mitigation strategies.Areas covered: In this review, the authors provide an up-to-date review of the infection risk associated with MS treatments with a specific focus on risk mitigating strategies. The search was conducted using Pubmed® database (2000 - present) to identify publications that reported infection rates and infection complications for each treatment (interferon beta, glatiramer acetate, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, fingolimod, cladribine, natalizumab, alemtuzumab, rituximab, and ocrelizumab).Expert opinion: Since the emergence of the first natalizumab-related PML case, the arrival of new MS therapies has come hand in hand with new infectious complications. MS-specialist neurologist has to face new challenges regarding the management of immunosuppression-related infectious complications. The implementation of patient-centered management focus on preventive and mitigating strategies with a multidisciplinary approach should be seen in the future as a marker of excellence of MS management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susana Otero-Romero
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adrián Sánchez-Montalvá
- Department of Infectious Diseases. Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, International Health Program Catalan Institute of Health (PROSICS), Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Micobacteria Infections Study Group (GEIM) of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases (SEIMC), Spain
| | - Angela Vidal-Jordana
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology and Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat). Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Jakimovski D, Eckert SP, Zivadinov R, Weinstock-Guttman B. Considering patient age when treating multiple sclerosis across the adult lifespan. Expert Rev Neurother 2021; 21:353-364. [PMID: 33595379 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1886082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The successful development of anti-inflammatory disease-modifying treatments (DMT) significantly improved disease outcomes and longevity of persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). However, the shift toward an elderly MS population has resulted with new concerns regarding DMT efficacy and safety.Areas covered: This review summarizes the evidence of an age-based decrease in the efficacy of MS DMTs and increase in pharmacovigilance concerns. The age effects on pathophysiological MS processes, immunosenescence and its relevance to DMT selection or discontinuation are also reviewed. Lastly, the authors discuss the influence of age-associated comorbidities on DMT initiation and drug-induced events.Expert opinion: There is an age discrepancy between pwMS included in regulatory drug trials and an aging real-world MS population. Most trials demonstrate significantly diminished anti-inflammatory efficacy in patients older than 40 years old. Older age is associated with a greater risk for adverse events including serious infections. Age-associated comorbidities influence the risk-benefit analysis and sometimes cause patients to discontinue DMTs. Instead of chronological age cutoffs, therefore, studies should aim at promoting biologically-based age biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dejan Jakimovski
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA.,Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Svetlana P Eckert
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Robert Zivadinov
- Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA.,Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA.,Center for Biomedical Imaging at Clinical Translational Science Institute, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Bianca Weinstock-Guttman
- Jacobs Comprehensive MS Treatment and Research Center, Department of Neurology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|