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Nicholas R, Scalfaro E, Dorsey R, Angehrn Z, Banhazi J, Brennan R, Adlard N. ENTIMOS: Decision Support Tool Highlights Potential Impact of Non-intravenous Therapies for Multiple Sclerosis on Patient Care via Clinical Scenario Simulation. PHARMACOECONOMICS - OPEN 2024:10.1007/s41669-024-00493-8. [PMID: 38990487 DOI: 10.1007/s41669-024-00493-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Administration of intravenous (IV), high-efficacy treatments (HETs) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) poses a high resourcing and planning burden on infusion centres, resulting in treatment delays that may increase the risk of breakthrough disease activity. Simulation tools can be used to systematically analyse capacity scenarios and identify and better understand constraints, therefore enabling decision-makers to optimise patient care. We have previously applied ENTIMOS, a discrete event simulation model, to assess scenarios of patient flow and care delivery using real-life data inputs from the neurology infusion suite at Charing Cross Hospital London. The model predicted that, given current capacity and projected demand, patients would experience high-risk treatment delays within 30 months. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to address key healthcare challenges for MS patient care management as seen from a neurologist's perspective. We used ENTIMOS to predict the impact of several distinct and clinically plausible scenarios on patient waiting times at the same MS infusion suite and to quantify mitigation strategies needed to assure continuity of care. METHODS We used real-world experience of an expert neurologist to identify five clinical scenarios: (1) switching patients to a subcutaneous (SC) MS treatment of the same therapeutic agent, in the same hospital setting; (2) extending opening times to the weekend; (3) reducing the number of infusion chairs (to simulate social distancing measures applied during the coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19] pandemic); (4) increasing demand for infusions; and (5) increasing the scheduling approval time. Patient waiting time for next due infusion and time to high-risk treatment delays (≥ 30 days) were the main analysed model outputs. Previously published base case results were used as reference. All hypothetical scenarios were run over a 3-year horizon (with the exception of scenario 1, which was run over a 3- and 5-year horizon). Strategies to mitigate treatment delays were analysed and discussed. RESULTS Switching 50% of patients to SC treatment of the same therapeutic agent administered in hospital postponed the predicted high-risk treatment delays to shortly beyond the 3-year simulation timeframe (month 38). Weekend opening reduced waiting times from 20 days to 4 days and prevented treatment delays, however, at elevated labour costs. Reducing the infusion chairs increased waiting time to 53 days on average and 86 days at the end of the simulation, leading to high-risk treatment delays within 6 months. An increased demand for infusions increased waiting time to 26 days on average and 47 days at the end of the simulation, leading to high-risk treatment delays within 22 months. Prolonged scheduling approval time did not reduce the waiting time, nor postpone the high-risk treatment delays. CONCLUSION Decision makers need transparency on capacity constraints to better plan resourcing at infusion suites and MS treatments. Our results showed that various mitigation measures, such as increasing capacity by additional infusion chairs per year and transferring patients to other infusion suites, may help prevent treatment delays. Switching patients from IV to an SC version of the same therapeutic agent reduced the waiting time moderately and postponed high-risk treatment delays. It was insufficient to prevent high-risk treatment delays in the long term.
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Morgan A, Tallantyre E, Ontaneda D. The benefits and risks of escalation versus early highly effective treatment in patients with multiple sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:433-444. [PMID: 37129299 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2208347] [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: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, demyelinating, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system that affects over 2 million people worldwide. Considerable advances have been made in the availability of disease modifying therapies for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis since their introduction in the 1990s. This has led to debate regarding the optimal first-line treatment approach: a strategy of escalation versus early highly effective treatment. AREAS COVERED This review defines the strategies of escalation and early highly effective treatment, outlines the pros and cons of each, and provides an analysis of both the current literature and expected future directions of the field. EXPERT OPINION There is growing support for using early highly effective treatment as the initial therapeutic approach in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. However, much of this support stems from observational real-world studies that use historic data and lack safety outcomes or randomized control trials that compare individual high versus low-moderate efficacy therapies, instead of the approaches themselves. Randomized control trials (DELIVER-MS, TREAT-MS) are needed to systemically and prospectively compare contemporary escalation versus early highly effective treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Morgan
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Emma Tallantyre
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Daniel Ontaneda
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Apóstolos SLP, Boaventura M, Mendes NT, Teixeira LS, Campana IG. How to choose initial treatment in multiple sclerosis patients: a case-based approach. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2022; 80:159-172. [PMID: 35976318 PMCID: PMC9491420 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x-anp-2022-s128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapy dramatically changed the natural history of multiple sclerosis (MS), which was classically associated with severe disability. Treatment strategies advocate that early control of disease activity is crucial to avoid progressive disability, and the use of high efficacy drugs may be beneficial, but safety is a concern. Choosing the disease-modifying therapy is challenging in clinical practice and should be further discussed. OBJECTIVE To discuss the state of art of selecting the initial therapy for relapsing MS patients. METHODS We used a case-based approach followed by clinical discussion, exploring therapeutic options in different MS settings. RESULTS We presented clinical cases profile compatible with the use of MS therapies, classified into moderate and high efficacy. In the moderate efficacy group, we discussed interferons, glatiramer acetate, teriflunomide and dimethyl fumarate, while in the high efficacy group we discussed fingolimod, cladribine, natalizumab, ocrelizumab, alemtuzumab and ofatumumab. CONCLUSION Advances in MS treatment are remarkable. Strong evidence supports the use of early high efficacy therapy. However, biomarkers, clinical and radiologic prognostic factors, as well as patients' individual issues, should be valued and considered for a personalized treatment decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Luisa Pereira Apóstolos
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Mateus Boaventura
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Natalia Trombini Mendes
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Larissa Silva Teixeira
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Igor Gusmão Campana
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas, Departamento de Neurologia, São Paulo SP, Brazil
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Jalkh G, Abi Nahed R, Macaron G, Rensel M. Safety of Newer Disease Modifying Therapies in Multiple Sclerosis. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 9:12. [PMID: 33375365 PMCID: PMC7823546 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9010012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past decade, the therapeutic arsenal for multiple sclerosis has expanded greatly. Newer more potent disease modifying therapies (DMTs) with varying mechanisms of actions are increasingly used early in the disease course. These newer DMTs include oral therapies (teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, fingolimod, siponimod, ozanimod, and cladribine) and infusion therapies (natalizumab, alemtuzumab, and ocrelizumab), and are associated with better control of disease activity and long-term outcomes in patients with MS compared to older injectable therapies (interferon beta and glatiramer acetate). However, they are associated with safety concerns and subsequent monitoring requirements. Adverse events are initially observed in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials, and further long-term data are collected in phase 3 extension studies, case series, and post-marketing reports, which highlight the need to periodically re-evaluate and adjust monitoring strategies to optimize treatment safety in an individualized approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georges Jalkh
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Saint Joseph, Beirut B.P. 11-5076, Lebanon; (G.J.); (R.A.N.); (G.M.)
- Department of Neurology, Hotel-Dieu de France Hospital, Beirut 16-6830, Lebanon
| | - Rachelle Abi Nahed
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Saint Joseph, Beirut B.P. 11-5076, Lebanon; (G.J.); (R.A.N.); (G.M.)
- Department of Neurology, Hotel-Dieu de France Hospital, Beirut 16-6830, Lebanon
| | - Gabrielle Macaron
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Saint Joseph, Beirut B.P. 11-5076, Lebanon; (G.J.); (R.A.N.); (G.M.)
- Department of Neurology, Hotel-Dieu de France Hospital, Beirut 16-6830, Lebanon
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Mary Rensel
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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Lima MR, Farias LABG, da Ponte MF, de Arruda Furtado LET. Self-Limited Cytomegalovirus Infection During Natalizumab Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis. Eur J Case Rep Intern Med 2019; 6:001046. [PMID: 30931272 PMCID: PMC6432828 DOI: 10.12890/2019_001046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Natalizumab is indicated as monotherapy for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis; it prevents outbreaks and delays the progression of physical disability. Here, we report the case of a 30-year-old patient with multiple sclerosis receiving natalizumab as monotherapy who subsequently developed self-limited cytomegalovirus disease. Cytomegalovirus infection has been reported during treatment with natalizumab, and in this study, we use new techniques to analyze the possible association of cytomegalovirus infection with natalizumab. LEARNING POINTS Natalizumab is a humanized recombinant monoclonal antibody (IgG4k) against α4-integrin which promotes immunocompromise by blocking the adhesion interactions necessary for lymphocyte trafficking.Cytomegalovirus infection has been described during natalizumab treatment, although the pathogenesis and mechanisms are not complete understood.This case highlights the importance of awareness of this association and possible complications.
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Recommendations for cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2018; 64:443-452. [PMID: 30552580 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-018-0663-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) mean for the human organism a potentially dangerous situation. An investigation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) provides important information about a character of CNS impairment in the decision-making diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm. The authors present a brief overview of available cerebrospinal fluid assays, shortened indication criteria, a recommended algorithm of CSF assessment in different suspected diseases, and a view of the external quality system. The whole portfolio of obtainable CSF methodology is further subdivided according to the adequate choice into the first and inevitable basic routine panel, and following complicated analyses of highly specialized character. The basic panel is considered for standard laboratories, the complete specialized assessment should be provided by a super-consulting laboratory.
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Shirani A, Stüve O. Natalizumab: Perspectives from the Bench to Bedside. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2018; 8:cshperspect.a029066. [PMID: 29500304 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a029066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Probably no other disease-modifying drug for multiple sclerosis has a more fascinating story than natalizumab from both the bench to bedside perspective and the postmarketing experience standpoint. Natalizumab is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits the trafficking of lymphocytes from the blood into the central nervous system by blocking the adhesion molecule α4-integrin. Natalizumab was approved as a disease-modifying drug for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis only 12 years after the discovery of its target molecule-a time line that is rather fast for drug development. However, a few months after its U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval, natalizumab was withdrawn from the market because of an unanticipated complication-progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. It was later reinstated with required adherence to a strict monitoring program and incorporation of mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Shirani
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Olaf Stüve
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390.,Neurology Section, VA North Texas Health Care System, Medical Service Dallas, VA Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75216
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Pejsa V, Lucijanic M, Jonjic Z, Prka Z, Vukorepa G. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy developing after obinutuzumab treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Ann Hematol 2018; 98:1509-1510. [DOI: 10.1007/s00277-018-3552-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Vermersch P, Radue EW, Putzki N, Ritter S, Merschhemke M, Freedman MS. A comparison of multiple sclerosis disease activity after discontinuation of fingolimod and placebo. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2017; 3:2055217317730096. [PMID: 28989795 PMCID: PMC5624444 DOI: 10.1177/2055217317730096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cases of higher-than-expected disease activity have been reported following fingolimod discontinuation. OBJECTIVE The objective of this paper is to assess the risk of substantially higher-than-expected disease activity post-study drug discontinuation (SDD) at the individual patient level using data from the Phase III, placebo-controlled FREEDOMS and FREEDOMS II trials. METHODS Baseline gadolinium-enhancing T1-lesion volumes were used to statistically model the expected level of MRI disease activity post-SDD. Patients exceeding this level were classed as "MRI outliers." Patients with an unusually high increase in Expanded Disability Status Scale score, hospitalization for relapse, severe relapse, or relapse with incomplete recovery post-SDD were classed as "clinical outliers." RESULTS In FREEDOMS, the number of MRI outliers post-SDD was 2/69 (2.9%), 1/65 (1.5%) and 7/83 (8.4%) for the placebo, fingolimod 0.5 mg, and fingolimod 1.25 mg groups, respectively. In FREEDOMS II, the corresponding numbers were 4/72 (5.6%), 6/79 (7.6%) and 3/73 (4.1%). The number of clinical outliers across both trials was low. No consistent evidence of placebo vs fingolimod, dose-related or inter-trial patterns was discernable. CONCLUSION The low number of clinical and MRI outliers and lack of any discernible pattern within and between trials, including between placebo and fingolimod, argues against a systematic risk of higher-than-expected recurrence of disease activity following discontinuation of fingolimod.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Vermersch
- University of Lille, CHU Lille, LIRIC - INSERM U995, FHU Imminent, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Mark S Freedman
- University of Ottawa, The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Canada
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Giacoppo S, Ruscica M, Grimaldi LM, Bramanti P, Mazzon E. The Italian Pharmacovigilance Program: An Observational Study of Adverse Effects of Natalizumab in Multiple Sclerosis Therapy. Med Sci Monit 2017; 23:4230-4240. [PMID: 28864818 PMCID: PMC5592973 DOI: 10.12659/msm.903301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study shows the results of a regional pharmacovigilance program on Natalizumab therapy in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RR-MS) patients after 3 years of experience. Material/Methods The primary objectives of this study were to estimate the incidence of expected and unexpected adverse effects correlated to Natalizumab therapy in a cohort of 88 RR-MS patients from Sicily, Italy, and to investigate the procedures adopted by the physicians to minimize the risk of developing severe adverse reactions correlated to Natalizumab therapy. Secondary objectives of this study were to evaluate the effectiveness of Natalizumab therapy for a careful examination of the risk/benefit ratio and to assess the actions undertaken in case of adverse reactions. Results Among 88 RR-MS patients, 55.68% did not report any type of adverse reaction, 35.22% showed expected adverse reactions (58.70% slight, 22.58% moderate, and 19.35% severe), and 9.10% showed unexpected adverse effects (62.50% slight, 25.00% moderate, and 12.50% severe). Approximately 4.54% of the patients treated with Natalizumab interrupted the therapy. Overall, among all patients, 56.62% showed ameliorated condition, 32.53% had stable disease condition, and 10.85% worsened. Conclusions We provide a short overview of evidence, which may be useful to better characterize the efficacy and potential adverse effects correlated to Natalizumab therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Giacoppo
- Experimental Neurology Laboratory, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Ruscica
- Departmen of Neurology, Fondazione Istituto San Raffaele G. Giglio, Cefalù, Italy
| | - Luigi Maria Grimaldi
- Departmen of Neurology, Fondazione Istituto San Raffaele G. Giglio, Cefalù, Italy
| | - Placido Bramanti
- Experimental Neurology Laboratory, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Messina, Italy
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- Experimental Neurology Laboratory, IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Messina, Italy
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Severe Cytomegalovirus Gastritis During Natalizumab-Mediated Immunosuppression. ACG Case Rep J 2017; 4:e43. [PMID: 28331881 PMCID: PMC5356152 DOI: 10.14309/crj.2017.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a 35-year-old female receiving natalizumab as monotherapy for multiple sclerosis who subsequently developed severe cytomegalovirus gastritis. As cytomegalovirus gastritis has not been previously described during natalizumab treatment, we discuss the biological plausibility of this potential association and avenues for further study.
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Pérez-Rodríguez E, Hernández-Pérez MÁ, Martínez-Tadeo JA. Successful desensitization to natalizumab using a 1-solution protocol. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2016; 118:113-114. [PMID: 27864092 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2016.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eva Pérez-Rodríguez
- Service of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria University Hospital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
| | - Miguel Ángel Hernández-Pérez
- Service of Neurology, Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria University Hospital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Martínez-Tadeo
- Service of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria University Hospital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
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Ziemssen T, De Stefano N, Sormani MP, Van Wijmeersch B, Wiendl H, Kieseier BC. Optimizing therapy early in multiple sclerosis: An evidence-based view. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2015; 4:460-469. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2015.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Nali LHDS, Moraes L, Fink MCD, Callegaro D, Romano CM, Oliveira ACPD. Natalizumab treatment for multiple sclerosis: updates and considerations for safer treatment in JCV positive patients. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2014; 72:960-5. [PMID: 25465776 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20140142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Natalizumab is currently one of the best options for treatment of patients with Multiple Sclerosis who have failed traditional prior therapies. However, prolonged use, prior immunosuppressive therapy and anti-JCV antibody status have been associated with increased risk of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The evaluation of these conditions has been used to estimate risks of PML in these patients, and distinct (sometimes extreme) approaches are used to avoid the PML onset. At this time, the biggest issue facing the use of Natalizumab is how to get a balance between the risks and the benefits of the treatment. Hence, strategies for monitor JCV-positive patients undergoing Natalizumab treatment are deeply necessary. To illustrate it, we monitored JCV/DNA in blood and urine of a patient receiving Natalizumab for 12 months. We also bring to discussion the effectiveness of the current methods used for risk evaluation, and the real implications of viral reactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz Henrique da Silva Nali
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lenira Moraes
- Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Domingues Fink
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Dagoberto Callegaro
- Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Camila Malta Romano
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Calvi A, De Riz M, Pietroboni AM, Ghezzi L, Maltese V, Arighi A, Fumagalli GG, Jacini F, Donelli C, Comi G, Galimberti D, Scarpini E. Partial recovery after severe immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in a multiple sclerosis patient with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Immunotherapy 2014; 6:23-8. [PMID: 24341880 DOI: 10.2217/imt.13.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare and severe complication of natalizumab therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis and it may be accompanied by immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Here, we describe a case of abnormally severe IRIS, which occurred 2 months after natalizumab-associated PML in a 38-year-old woman affected by multiple sclerosis. The patient was John Cunningham virus-positive and was treated for 21 months when she developed PML. The subsequent IRIS diffusely afflicted the brain, producing edema and signs of intracranial hypertension, with a clinically severe form compromising the state of consciousness, requiring intensive care and high-dosage steroid treatment. Nevertheless, she survived and partially recovered. There is still difficulty in differentiating PML progression from IRIS onset and there is not a clear description in the literature about different clinical forms of IRIS, prognostic factors and guidelines to properly treat this complication in order to reduce the residual disability of the patient surviving this treatment complication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Calvi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Pathophysiology & Transplantation, 'Dino Ferrari' Center, University of Milan, Fondazione Cà Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Butcher LD, Garcia M, Arnold M, Ueno H, Goel A, Boland CR. Immune response to JC virus T antigen in patients with and without colorectal neoplasia. Gut Microbes 2014; 5:468-75. [PMID: 25007286 PMCID: PMC5515464 DOI: 10.4161/gmic.29573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
JC virus (JCV) is a polyomavirus that infects approximately 75% of the population and encodes a T antigen (T-Ag) gene, which is oncogenic and inactivates the p53 and pRb/p107/p130 protein families. Previous work in our lab has identified the presence of T-Ag in colorectal neoplasms. While JCV remains in a latent state for the majority of those infected, we hypothesized that a disturbance in immunological control may permit JCV to reactivate, which may be involved in the development of colorectal neoplasia. Our aim was to determine the cell mediated immune response to JCV T-Ag, and determine if it is altered in patients with colorectal adenomatous polyps (AP) or cancers (CRC). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from the blood of patients undergoing colonoscopy or colorectal surgery were stimulated by a peptide library covering the entire T-Ag protein of JCV. Cytokine production and T cell proliferation were evaluated following T-Ag stimulation using Luminex and flow cytometry assays. JCV T-Ag peptides stimulated secretion of IL-2, which induced T cell expansion in all three groups. However, stronger IL-10 and IL-13 production was seen in patients without colorectal neoplasms. IP-10 was produced at very high levels in all groups, but not significantly differently between groups. Most patients exhibited CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells in response to stimulation by the T-Ag clusters. The combination of IL-2 and IP-10 secretion indicates the presence of T-Ag-specific Th1 cells in all patients, which is higher in patients without carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay D Butcher
- Institute of Biomedical Studies; Baylor University; Waco, TX USA,Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory; Baylor Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center; Baylor University Medical Center; Dallas, TX USA
| | - Melissa Garcia
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory; Baylor Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center; Baylor University Medical Center; Dallas, TX USA
| | - Mildred Arnold
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory; Baylor Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center; Baylor University Medical Center; Dallas, TX USA
| | - Hideki Ueno
- Baylor Institute for Immunology Research; Baylor Research Institute; Baylor University Medical Center; Dallas, TX USA
| | - Ajay Goel
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory; Baylor Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center; Baylor University Medical Center; Dallas, TX USA
| | - C Richard Boland
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory; Baylor Research Institute and Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center; Baylor University Medical Center; Dallas, TX USA,Correspondence to: C Richard Boland;
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VCAM-1/α4β1 integrin interaction is crucial for prompt recruitment of immune T cells into the brain during the early stage of reactivation of chronic infection with Toxoplasma gondii to prevent toxoplasmic encephalitis. Infect Immun 2014; 82:2826-39. [PMID: 24752515 DOI: 10.1128/iai.01494-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactivation of chronic infection with Toxoplasma gondii can cause life-threatening toxoplasmic encephalitis in immunocompromised individuals. We examined the role of VCAM-1/α4β1 integrin interaction in T cell recruitment to prevent reactivation of the infection in the brain. SCID mice were infected and treated with sulfadiazine to establish a chronic infection. VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 were the endothelial adhesion molecules detected on cerebral vessels of the infected SCID and wild-type animals. Immune T cells from infected wild-type mice were treated with anti-α4 integrin or control antibodies and transferred into infected SCID or nude mice, and the animals received the same antibody every other day. Three days later, sulfadiazine was discontinued to initiate reactivation of infection. Expression of mRNAs for CD3δ, CD4, CD8β, gamma interferon (IFN-γ), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS2) (an effector molecule to inhibit T. gondii growth) and the numbers of CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells in the brain were significantly less in mice treated with anti-α4 integrin antibody than in those treated with control antibody at 3 days after sulfadiazine discontinuation. At 6 days after sulfadiazine discontinuation, cerebral tachyzoite-specific SAG1 mRNA levels and numbers of inflammatory foci associated with tachyzoites were markedly greater in anti-α4 integrin antibody-treated than in control antibody-treated animals, even though IFN-γ and NOS2 mRNA levels were higher in the former than in the latter. These results indicate that VCAM-1/α4β1 integrin interaction is crucial for prompt recruitment of immune T cells and induction of IFN-γ-mediated protective immune responses during the early stage of reactivation of chronic T. gondii infection to control tachyzoite growth.
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Abstract
Natalizumab (Tysabri®) is a humanized monoclonal antibody against the α4 chain of integrins and was the first targeted therapy to be approved for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Natalizumab acts as a selective adhesion molecule antagonist, which binds very late antigen (VLA)-4 and inhibits the translocation of activated VLA-4-expressing leukocytes across the blood-brain barrier into the CNS. In a pivotal phase III clinical trial, natalizumab 300 mg intravenously every 4 weeks for 2 years in adults with RRMS significantly reduced the annualized relapse rate and the risk of sustained progression of disability compared with placebo, as well as significantly increasing the proportion of relapse-free patients at 1 and 2 years. Natalizumab also significantly reduced the number of T2-hyperintense, gadolinium-enhancing and T1-hypointense lesions on magnetic resonance imaging, and significantly reduced the volume of T2-hyperintense and T1-hypointense lesions compared with placebo. Natalizumab recipients generally experienced improved health-related quality of life at 1-2 years. Natalizumab was generally well tolerated in pivotal trials. The only adverse events that were more frequent with natalizumab monotherapy than with placebo were fatigue and allergic reactions. The main safety and tolerability issue with natalizumab is the incidence of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). As long as the risk of PML is managed effectively, natalizumab is a valuable therapeutic option for adults with highly active relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Comi
- Department of Neurology; University Vita-Salute San Raffaele; San Raffaele Scientific Institute; Milan Italy
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Fragoso YD, Arruda NM, Arruda WO, Brooks JBB, Correa EC, Damasceno A, Damasceno CA, Ferreira MLB, Giacomo MCB, Gomes S, Gonçalves MVM, Grzesiuk AK, Kaimen-Maciel DR, Lopes J, Machado SCN, Oliveira CLS, Stella CRAV. We know how to prescribe natalizumab for multiple sclerosis, but do we know how to withdraw it? Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 14:127-30. [DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2014.874947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a life-long, potentially debilitating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). MS is considered to be an immune-mediated disease, and the presence of autoreactive peripheral lymphocytes in CNS compartments is believed to be critical in the process of demyelination and tissue damage in MS. Although MS is not currently a curable disease, several disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are now available, or are in development. These DMTs are all thought to primarily suppress autoimmune activity within the CNS. Each therapy has its own mechanism of action (MoA) and, as a consequence, each has a different efficacy and safety profile. Neurologists can now select therapies on a more individual, patient-tailored basis, with the aim of maximizing potential for long-term efficacy without interruptions in treatment. The MoA and clinical profile of MS therapies are important considerations when making that choice or when switching therapies due to suboptimal disease response. This article therefore reviews the known and putative immunological MoAs alongside a summary of the clinical profile of therapies approved for relapsing forms of MS, and those in late-stage development, based on published data from pivotal randomized, controlled trials.
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