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Xiao L, Huang Y, Sun H, Gao S, Huang D, Wu L. Rituximab maintenance treatment outcomes in patients with relapsing neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: a monocentric retrospective analysis. Acta Neurol Belg 2024:10.1007/s13760-024-02555-4. [PMID: 38858290 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-024-02555-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Some patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) experience relapse after rituximab (RTX) treatment. In this retrospective study, we analyzed the recurrence-related clinical features, laboratory investigation results, and dosing protocol of 30 female patients with relapsing NMOSD with immunoglobulin G autoantibodies against aquaporin-4 and relapses during repeated 0.5 g RTX infusions as maintenance treatment. The median follow-up period was 6.62 years. Thirty-five episodes were observed, with myelitis being the most frequent. The median expanded disability status scale change score was 0.50. The recurrence rate decreased by 44.23%/year with RTX infusion. Approximately 85.71% of the patients showed relapse without RTX infusion within 10 months. Overall, RTX may be effective for relapsing NMOSD cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianchen Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanning Huang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- Department of Neurology, The Secondary Medical Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Sun
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Sai Gao
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dehui Huang
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
| | - Lei Wu
- Department of Neurology, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
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Vesperinas-Castro A, Cortés-Vicente E. Rituximab treatment in myasthenia gravis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1275533. [PMID: 37849836 PMCID: PMC10577386 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1275533] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disease mediated by antibodies against post-synaptic proteins of the neuromuscular junction. Up to 10%-30% of patients are refractory to conventional treatments. For these patients, rituximab has been used off-label in the recent decades. Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody against the CD20 protein that leads to B cell depletion and to the synthesis of new antibody-secreting plasma cells. Although rituximab was created to treat B-cell lymphoma, its use has widely increased to treat autoimmune diseases. In MG, the benefit of rituximab treatment in MuSK-positive patients seems clear, but a high variability in the results of observational studies and even clinical trials has been reported for AChR-positive patients. Moreover, few evidence has been reported in seronegative MG and juvenile MG and some questions about regimen of administration or monitoring strategies, remains open. In this review, we intend to revise the available literature on this topic and resume the current evidence of effectiveness of Rituximab in MG, with special attention to results on every MG subtype, as well as the administration protocols, monitoring strategies and safety profile of the drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Vesperinas-Castro
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Cortés-Vicente
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Vakrakou AG, Karachaliou E, Chroni E, Zouvelou V, Tzanetakos D, Salakou S, Papadopoulou M, Tzartos S, Voumvourakis K, Kilidireas C, Giannopoulos S, Tsivgoulis G, Tzartos J. Immunotherapies in MuSK-positive Myasthenia Gravis; an IgG4 antibody-mediated disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1212757. [PMID: 37564637 PMCID: PMC10410455 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1212757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Muscle-specific kinase (MuSK) Myasthenia Gravis (MG) represents a prototypical antibody-mediated disease characterized by predominantly focal muscle weakness (neck, facial, and bulbar muscles) and fatigability. The pathogenic antibodies mostly belong to the immunoglobulin subclass (Ig)G4, a feature which attributes them their specific properties and pathogenic profile. On the other hand, acetylcholine receptor (AChR) MG, the most prevalent form of MG, is characterized by immunoglobulin (Ig)G1 and IgG3 antibodies to the AChR. IgG4 class autoantibodies are impotent to fix complement and only weakly bind Fc-receptors expressed on immune cells and exert their pathogenicity via interfering with the interaction between their targets and binding partners (e.g. between MuSK and LRP4). Cardinal differences between AChR and MuSK-MG are the thymus involvement (not prominent in MuSK-MG), the distinct HLA alleles, and core immunopathological patterns of pathology in neuromuscular junction, structure, and function. In MuSK-MG, classical treatment options are usually less effective (e.g. IVIG) with the need for prolonged and high doses of steroids difficult to be tapered to control symptoms. Exceptional clinical response to plasmapheresis and rituximab has been particularly observed in these patients. Reduction of antibody titers follows the clinical efficacy of anti-CD20 therapies, a feature implying the role of short-lived plasma cells (SLPB) in autoantibody production. Novel therapeutic monoclonal against B cells at different stages of their maturation (like plasmablasts), or against molecules involved in B cell activation, represent promising therapeutic targets. A revolution in autoantibody-mediated diseases is pharmacological interference with the neonatal Fc receptor, leading to a rapid reduction of circulating IgGs (including autoantibodies), an approach already suitable for AChR-MG and promising for MuSK-MG. New precision medicine approaches involve Chimeric autoantibody receptor T (CAAR-T) cells that are engineered to target antigen-specific B cells in MuSK-MG and represent a milestone in the development of targeted immunotherapies. This review aims to provide a detailed update on the pathomechanisms involved in MuSK-MG (cellular and humoral aberrations), fostering the understanding of the latest indications regarding the efficacy of different treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aigli G. Vakrakou
- First Department of Neurology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Karachaliou
- Second Department of Neurology, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Elisabeth Chroni
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Zouvelou
- First Department of Neurology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Tzanetakos
- Second Department of Neurology, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Stavroula Salakou
- Second Department of Neurology, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Marianna Papadopoulou
- Second Department of Neurology, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of West Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Socrates Tzartos
- Tzartos NeuroDiagnostics, Athens, Greece
- Department of Neurobiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Voumvourakis
- Second Department of Neurology, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Constantinos Kilidireas
- First Department of Neurology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Department of Neurology, Henry Dunant Hospital Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Sotirios Giannopoulos
- Second Department of Neurology, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Tsivgoulis
- Second Department of Neurology, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Department of Neurology, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - John Tzartos
- Second Department of Neurology, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Sánchez-Tejerina D, Sotoca J, Llaurado A, López-Diego V, Juntas-Morales R, Salvado M. New Targeted Agents in Myasthenia Gravis and Future Therapeutic Strategies. J Clin Med 2022; 11:6394. [PMID: 36362622 PMCID: PMC9658349 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11216394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disease for which multiple immunomodulatory therapies are available. Nevertheless, MG has a significant impact on patient quality of life. In recent years, experts' main efforts have focused on optimizing treatment strategies, since disease burden is considerably affected by their safety and tolerability profiles, especially in patients with refractory phenotypes. This article aims to offer neurologists caring for MG patients an overview of the most innovative targeted drugs specifically designed for this disease and summarizes the recent literature and more recent evidence on agents targeting B cells and plasmablasts, complement inhibitors, and neonatal fragment crystallizable receptor (FcRn) antagonists. Positive clinical trial results have been reported, and other studies are ongoing. Finally, we briefly discuss how the introduction of these novel targeted immunological therapies in a changing management paradigm would affect not only clinical outcomes, disease burden, safety, and tolerability, but also health spending in a condition that is increasingly managed based on a patient-centred model.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Maria Salvado
- Clinic of Neuromuscular Disorders and Rare Diseases, Neurology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, European Reference Network for Neuromuscular and Rare Diseases EURO-NMD, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
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Ziaadini B, Karimi N, Panahi A, Okhovat AA, Fatehi F, Nafissi S. A retrospective study of the safety and efficacy of rituximab in Iranian patients with myasthenia gravis: A single-center experience. CURRENT JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY 2022; 21:91-97. [PMID: 38011443 PMCID: PMC9860210 DOI: 10.18502/cjn.v21i2.10492] [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: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Background: This retrospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and tolerance of rituximab (RTX) for the management of myasthenia gravis (MG). Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 61 patients with refractory and non-refractory MG who received RTX. The Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL) profile was used to assess MG symptoms and their effects on daily activities at the start of RTX and in the last follow-up. The Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America Post-Intervention Status (MGFA-PIS) scale has been used as an outcome measure after treatment with RTX in the 12th month and the last follow-up. Results: The mean age of the patients was 40.31 ± 13.53 years (range: 15-78 years). Of 61 patients, eight (13.1%) were double seronegative, 29 (47.5%) had anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR+) antibody, and 24 (39.3%) had anti-muscle-specific tyrosine kinase antibody (MuSK+). According to the mean rank table, the results of this study showed that the drug was more effective in improving the symptoms of MuSK+ patients compared to the other two groups (P = 0.006). The mean MG-ADL was 4.86 ± 1.83 before treatment and 1.51 ± 2.02 in the last follow-up visit. Paired t-test showed a significant association between MG-ADL before and after treatment in the last visit [t(55): 11.30, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.79-3.99, P = 0.001)]. Conclusion: This retrospective study showed a considerable effect of RTX as induction therapy in patients with MG, especially those with MuSk+ MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bentolhoda Ziaadini
- Neurology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Narges Karimi
- Immunogenetics Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Neurology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akram Panahi
- Department of Neurology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Asghar Okhovat
- Department of Neurology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neurology, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Fatehi
- Department of Neurology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahriar Nafissi
- Department of Neurology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Du Y, Li C, Hao YF, Zhao C, Yan Q, Yao D, Li L, Zhang W. Individualized regimen of low-dose rituximab monotherapy for new-onset AChR-positive generalized myasthenia gravis. J Neurol 2022; 269:4229-4240. [PMID: 35243555 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11048-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Generalized AChR-MG is an archetype of B cell-mediated autoimmune disorders, and use of biologic agent rituximab (RTX) for B cell depletion is generally limited to immunosuppressive therapy-refractory cases. However, benefit of RTX monotherapy and individualized regimen with optimal dosage in early stage of new-onset generalized AChR-MG still remains to be elucidated. In this retrospective study, we explore the efficacy and safety of personalized regimen of 100 mg low-dose rituximab monotherapy in treating new-onset generalized AChR-MG. METHODS Thirteen new-onset generalized AChR-MG patients were enrolled for the study, initiating RTX treatment from November 2017 to August 2020. The individualized low-dose RTX monotherapy protocol consisted of 100 mg induction treatment weekly with no more than three circles, followed by reinfusion (100 mg once) sequentially according to whether achieving primary endpoint and peripheral CD19 + B-cell repopulation ≥ 1% of total lymphocytes at each visit (every 3 months). Outcome measures included MGFA-PIS Minimal Manifestation (MM) or better status (primary endpoint), changes in QMG, MMT, MG-ADL and MGQOL-15 scores (secondary endpoint), as well as cholinesterase inhibitors dosage. RESULTS All 13 patients achieved the primary endpoint in parallel with significant improvement of QMG, MMT, MG-ADL MGQOL-15 scores, and reduction of cholinesterase inhibitors dose. A total of 52 visits were performed during follow-up, and only 10 assessments presenting peripheral CD19 + B-cell repopulation (≥ 1%) without "MM or better status" were followed by RTX reinfusions (100 mg once) for clinical remission. The total dosage of RTX was only 346.15 ± 96.74 mg (including 269.23 ± 63.04 mg for induction and 76.92 ± 59.91 mg for reinfusion), which seemed to be much lower than those dosages used in new-onset generalized AChR-MG as described previously. Moreover, compared with patients without thymoma, thymectomy markedly delayed initiation of RTX for patients with thymoma (log-rank test, p = 0.0002), but the delaying treatments showed no influence on the time for achieving primary outcome (log-rank test, p = 0.2517). CONCLUSION Our study firstly showed that individualized regimen of low-dose RTX monotherapy is effective and safe for early treatment of new-onset generalized AChR-MG, and practicable for directing RTX reinfusion and withdrawal. Moreover, the monotherapy protocol was also indicated to be extensively applicable in both new-onset AChR-MG with thymoma (thymectomy) and without thymoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Du
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an City, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Chuan Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an City, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yun-Feng Hao
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an City, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Chao Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an City, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Qi Yan
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an City, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Dan Yao
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an City, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an City, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an City, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China.
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Schneider-Gold C, Gilhus NE. Advances and challenges in the treatment of myasthenia gravis. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2022; 14:17562864211065406. [PMID: 34987614 PMCID: PMC8721395 DOI: 10.1177/17562864211065406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disease with fluctuating muscle weakness and fatigability. Standard immunomodulatory treatment may fail to achieve sufficient improvement with minimal symptom expression or remission of myasthenic symptoms, despite adequate dosing and duration of treatment. Treatment-resistant MG poses a challenge for both patients and treating neurologists and requires new therapeutic approaches. The spectrum of upcoming immunotherapies that more specifically address distinct targets of the main immunological players in MG pathogenesis includes T-cell directed monoclonal antibodies that block the intracellular cascade associated with T-cell activation, monoclonal antibodies directed against key B-cell molecules, as well as monoclonal antibodies against the fragment crystallizable neonatal receptor (FcRn), cytokines and transmigration molecules, and also drugs that inhibit distinct elements of the complement system activated by the pathogenic MG antibodies. The review gives an overview on new drugs being evaluated in still ongoing or recently finished controlled clinical trials and drugs of potential benefit in MG due to their mechanisms of action and positive effects in other autoimmune disorders. Also, the challenges associated with the new therapeutic options are discussed briefly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Schneider-Gold
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Gudrunstrasse 56, Bochum D-44791, Germany
| | - Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, NorwayDepartment of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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Feng X, Song Z, Wu M, Liu Y, Luo S, Zhao C, Zhang W. Efficacy and Safety of Immunotherapies in Refractory Myasthenia Gravis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Neurol 2021; 12:725700. [PMID: 34925206 PMCID: PMC8672452 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.725700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Approximately 10–20% of patients WITH myasthenia gravis (MG) are refractory to conventional immunotherapies. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the optimal therapies for refractory MG. Method: Correlative studies were performed through a search in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases. The primary outcome was defined by changes in the quantitative myasthenia gravis score (QMG). Secondary outcomes were defined by the Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living Scale (MG-ADL), Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) post intervention status, adverse events, and disease exacerbation after treatment. Result: A total of 16 studies were included with 403 patients with refractory MG on therapies with rituximab, eculizumab, tacrolimus, and cladribine. Therapeutic efficacy of rituximab and eculizumab was identified with an estimated reduction in QMG score (4.158 vs. 6.928) and MG-ADL (4.400 vs. 4.344), respectively. No significant changes were revealed in efficacy or exacerbation density between the two independent therapeutic cohorts. The estimated adverse event density of eculizumab was more significant than that in the rituximab group (1.195 vs. 0.134 per patient-year), while the estimated serious event density was similar. Conclusion: The efficacy and safety of rituximab and eculizumab have been approved in patients with refractory MG. Rituximab had a superior safety profile than eculizumab with a lower incidence of adverse events. Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021236818, identifier CRD42021236818.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuelin Feng
- Department of Neurology, East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Neurology, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zubiao Song
- Department of Neurology, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mengli Wu
- Department of Neurology, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanmei Liu
- Department of Neurology, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sushan Luo
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chongbo Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weixi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Zhao C, Pu M, Chen D, Shi J, Li Z, Guo J, Zhang G. Effectiveness and Safety of Rituximab for Refractory Myasthenia Gravis: A Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis. Front Neurol 2021; 12:736190. [PMID: 34721267 PMCID: PMC8548630 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.736190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune neuromuscular disease. Nearly 10-30% of patients with MG are refractory to conventional therapy. Rituximab (RTX), a monoclonal antibody targeting CD20, is increasingly used in autoimmune disorders. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of RTX for refractory MG. Methods: Studies published between January 1, 2000 and January 17, 2021 were searched in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ClincalTrails.gov. Primary outcomes included proportion of patients achieving minimal manifestation status (MMS) or better and quantitative MG (QMG) score change from baseline. Secondary outcomes were glucocorticoids (GC) doses change from baseline and proportion of patients discontinuing oral immunosuppressants. Results: A total of 24 studies involving 417 patients were included in the meta-analysis. An overall 64% (95% confidence interval, 49-77%) of patients achieved MMS or better. The estimated reduction of QMG score was 1.55 (95% confidence interval, 0.88-2.22). The mean reduction of GC doses was 1.46 (95% confidence interval, 1.10-1.82). The proportion of patients discontinuing oral immunosuppressants was 81% (95% confidence interval, 66-93%). Subgroup analyses showed that the proportion of patients achieving MMS or better and discontinuing oral immunosuppressants was higher in MuSK-MG group than those in AChR-MG group. Improvement was more pronounced in patients with mild to moderate MG compared to those with severe MG. Moreover, the efficacy appeared to be independent of the dose of RTX. 19.6% of patients experienced adverse events, most of which were mild to moderate. Only one patient developed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Conclusions: RTX can alleviate the symptom of weakness, decrease QMG score and reduce the doses of steroids and non-steroid immunosuppressive agents in refractory MG. It is well-tolerated with few severe adverse events. Randomized controlled trials are urgently needed to study the efficacy of RTX in treating refractory MG and to identify the characteristics of patients who might respond well to RTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Pu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Dawei Chen
- Department of Neurology, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Shi
- Department of Neurology, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuyi Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jun Guo
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guangyun Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, China
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10
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Thompson KK, Tsirka SE. Immunosuppression in Multiple Sclerosis and Other Neurologic Disorders. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2021; 272:245-265. [PMID: 34595582 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by peripheral immune cell infiltration into the brain and spinal cord, demyelination, glial cell activation, and neuronal damage. Currently there is no cure for MS, however, available disease-modifying agents minimize inflammation in the CNS by various mechanisms. Approved drugs lessen severity of the disease and delay disease progression, however, they are still suboptimal as patients experience adverse effects and varying efficacies. Additionally, there is only one disease-modifying therapy available for the more debilitating, progressive form of MS. This chapter focuses on the presently-available therapeutics and, importantly, the future directions of MS therapy based on preclinical studies and early clinical trials. Immunosuppression in other neurological disorders including neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, myasthenia gravis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stella E Tsirka
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
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11
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Fatehi F, Moradi K, Okhovat AA, Shojatalab G, Sedighi B, Boostani R, Sarraf P, Haghi Ashtiani B, Ghasemi M, Moussavi S, Anjidani N, Nafissi S. Zytux in Refractory Myasthenia Gravis: A Multicenter, Open-Labeled, Clinical Trial Study of Effectiveness and Safety of a Rituximab Biosimilar. Front Neurol 2021; 12:682622. [PMID: 34512504 PMCID: PMC8427762 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.682622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an immune-mediated neuromuscular disorder responsive to immunomodulatory treatments. 10-20% of MGs are not responsive to conventional first-line therapies. Here, we sought to investigate the efficacy and safety of rituximab therapy in the treatment of patients with refractory MG. Methods: In a 48-week, multicenter, open-labeled, prospective cohort setting, 34 participants with refractory MG were assigned to receive infusions of Zytux, which is a rituximab biosimilar, according to a validated protocol. Clinical, functional, and quality of life (QoL) measurements were recorded at baseline, and seven further visits using the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA), Myasthenia Gravis Composite (MGC), Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living profile (MG-ADL), and Myasthenia Gravis Quality of Life (MGQoL-15) scales. Besides, the post-infusion side effects were systematically assessed throughout the study. Results: The correlation analysis performed by generalized estimating equations analysis represented a significant reduction of MGC, MG-ADL, and MGQoL-15 scores across the trial period. The subgroup analysis based on the patients' clinical status indicated a significant effect for the interaction between time and MGFA subtypes on MG-ADL score, MGC score, and pyridostigmine prednisolone dose, reflecting that the worse clinical condition was associated with a better response to rituximab. Finally, no serious adverse event was documented. Conclusions: Rituximab therapy could improve clinical, functional, and QoL in patients with refractory MG in a safe setting. Further investigations with larger sample size and a more extended follow-up period are warranted to confirm this finding. Clinical Trial Registration: The study was registered by the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) (Code No: IRCT20150303021315N18).
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzad Fatehi
- Neurology Department, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamyar Moradi
- Neurology Department, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Asghar Okhovat
- Neurology Department, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Neurology Department, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghazaleh Shojatalab
- Neurology Department, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnaz Sedighi
- Neurology Department, Shafa Hospital, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Reza Boostani
- Neurology Department, Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Payam Sarraf
- Neurology Department, Imam-Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Iranian Center of Neurological Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahram Haghi Ashtiani
- Department of Neurology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Ghasemi
- Department of Neurology, Kashani Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Soussan Moussavi
- Medical Student, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Nassim Anjidani
- Head of Medical Department, Orchid Pharmed Company, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahriar Nafissi
- Neurology Department, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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12
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Zhou Y, Yan C, Gu X, Zhou L, Lu J, Zhu W, Huan X, Luo S, Zhong H, Lin J, Lu J, Zhao C, Xi J. Short-term effect of low-dose rituximab on myasthenia gravis with muscle-specific tyrosine kinase antibody. Muscle Nerve 2021; 63:824-830. [PMID: 33745138 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS The study aims to investigate the short-term efficacy of low-dose rituximab and its effect on immunological biomarker levels in myasthenia gravis (MG) patients with antibodies against muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK-MG). METHODS Twelve MuSK-MG patients were enrolled in this prospective, open-label, self-controlled pilot study. Clinical severity was evaluated at baseline and 6 mo after a single rituximab treatment (600 mg). B lymphocyte subtypes, MuSK antibody titers, together with levels of immunoglobulins, serum B-cell activating factor (BAFF), a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), soluble CD40L, and four exosomal microRNAs were evaluated. A correlation matrix to reveal pairwise relationships among above variables was also generated. RESULTS The single rituximab treatment significantly lowered the clinical severity scores and reduced daily dosage of prednisone (P = .032) at 6 mo. MuSK antibody titers decreased (P = .035) without significant changes in immunoglobulin levels. Serum BAFF level increased (P = .010), which negatively correlated with the percentages of B cells in lymphocytes as well as clinical severity. Additionally, serum exosomal miR-151a-3p showed a reduction of 28.1% (P = .031). DISCUSSION We confirmed the clinical efficacy of low-dose rituximab in MuSK-MG, accompanied by a decrease in MuSK antibody titers and an increase in serum BAFF. Serum BAFF levels negatively correlated with B-cell counts as well as clinical severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufan Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chong Yan
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyu Gu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Lu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenhua Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Huan
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sushan Luo
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huahua Zhong
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Lin
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiahong Lu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chongbo Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Neurology, Jing'an District Centre Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianying Xi
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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13
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Rodolico C, Nicocia G, Damato V, Antonini G, Liguori R, Evoli A. Benefit and danger from immunotherapy in myasthenia gravis. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:1367-1375. [PMID: 33543421 PMCID: PMC7861968 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05077-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In the last years, significant advances have improved the knowledge of myasthenia gravis (MG) immunopathogenesis and have enabled to realize new molecules with a selective action targeting compounds of the immunological system. This review discusses emerging treatments for MG, including complement inhibitors, neonatal Fc receptor targeting agents, and B cell interfering drugs, focusing on benefit and danger. In the second section of the review, several related adverse events of immunotherapy, including MGonset, are debated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Rodolico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
| | - Giulia Nicocia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Antonini
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs (NESMOS), Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Liguori
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS, Institute of Neurological Sciences, Bologna, Italy
| | - Amelia Evoli
- Department of Neurosciences, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
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14
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Ruetsch-Chelli C, Bresch S, Seitz-Polski B, Rosenthal A, Desnuelle C, Cohen M, Brglez V, Ticchioni M, Lebrun-Frenay C. Memory B Cells Predict Relapse in Rituximab-Treated Myasthenia Gravis. Neurotherapeutics 2021; 18:938-948. [PMID: 33768513 PMCID: PMC8423951 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01006-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis can be efficiently treated with rituximab but there is no consensus regarding administration and dose schedules in this indication. No marker has yet been described to predict the clinical relapse of patients. Our objective was to identify the B cell subpopulations predicting clinical relapse in patients suffering from generalized myasthenia gravis and treated with rituximab. Clinical and biological data of 34 patients followed between 2016 and 2019 were prospectively collected every 3 months. Using multiparameter flow cytometry, we assessed the percentage in leucocytes of lymphocytes and several B cell subpopulations measured in residual disease conditions. CD19+ were also measured in non-residual disease conditions. Clinical examinations were performed by neurologists using the Osserman score. Clinical relapse occurred in 14 patients (41%). No patients required ICU or ventilatory assistance. The mean improvement of the Osserman score was 17.18 (3-45) after the first rituximab treatment (p < 0.0001). The mean delay between the first rituximab maintenance cycle and clinical relapse was 386.8 days. At the time of relapse, CD27+ increased (p = 0.0006) with AUC = 0.7654, while CD19+ did not. At a threshold of 0.01%, the sensitivity and specificity of CD19+CD27+ were 75.8% and 72.8%, respectively, and the positive and negative predictive values were 28.0% and 95.6%, respectively. The percentage of memory B cells in whole blood cells can accurately predict clinical relapse in myasthenia gravis patients treated with rituximab. This monitoring allows physicians to tailor rituximab administration and to decrease the number of infusions over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Ruetsch-Chelli
- Laboratoire d'Immunologie, CHU de Nice, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
- Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire (C3M), INSERM U1065, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice Côte d'Azur University, Archet Hospital, 151, route Saint-Antoine de Ginestière CS 23079 -, 06202, Nice, France
- Unité de Recherche Clinique de la Côte d'Azur (UR2CA), Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Saskia Bresch
- Service de Neurologie, Pasteur2, CHU de Nice, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Barbara Seitz-Polski
- Laboratoire d'Immunologie, CHU de Nice, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
- Unité de Recherche Clinique de la Côte d'Azur (UR2CA), Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | | | - Claude Desnuelle
- Service de Neurologie, Pasteur2, CHU de Nice, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Mikael Cohen
- Service de Neurologie, Pasteur2, CHU de Nice, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
- Unité de Recherche Clinique de la Côte d'Azur (UR2CA), Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Vesna Brglez
- Unité de Recherche Clinique de la Côte d'Azur (UR2CA), Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Michel Ticchioni
- Laboratoire d'Immunologie, CHU de Nice, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
- Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire (C3M), INSERM U1065, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice Côte d'Azur University, Archet Hospital, 151, route Saint-Antoine de Ginestière CS 23079 -, 06202, Nice, France
| | - Christine Lebrun-Frenay
- Service de Neurologie, Pasteur2, CHU de Nice, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.
- Unité de Recherche Clinique de la Côte d'Azur (UR2CA), Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.
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15
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Low-dose rituximab treatment for new-onset generalized myasthenia gravis. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 354:577528. [PMID: 33662696 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577528] [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] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this retrospective case series study was to evaluate the response and durability of rituximab in patients with new-onset acetylcholine receptor positive (AChR +) generalized myasthenia gravis (MG). Patients were initiated with low-dose rituximab treatment within 3.5 months of onset without concomitant oral immunosuppressants. Seventeen patients (89%) remained relapse-free with a mean follow-up of 51.3 months. Clinical improvement was observed in parallel with the maintenance of low-dose corticosteroids or the complete discontinuation of corticosteroids. Long-term depletion of B cells with low-dose rituximab treatment has shown favorable efficacy and tolerance in reducing disease activity for AChR+ generalized MG.
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16
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Bennani HN, Lagrange E, Noble J, Malvezzi P, Motte L, Chevallier E, Rostaing L, Jouve T. Treatment of refractory myasthenia gravis by double-filtration plasmapheresis and rituximab: A case series of nine patients and literature review. J Clin Apher 2020; 36:348-363. [PMID: 33349954 DOI: 10.1002/jca.21868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease mediated by circulating autoantibodies (anti-AchR, anti-MuSK, etc.). More than 20% of myasthenic patients are refractory to conventional treatments (plasma exchange, IVIg, steroids, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil). Rituximab (B-lymphocyte-depleting anti-CD20) and apheresis (double-filtration plasmapheresis [DFPP] and immunoadsorption [IA]) are interesting therapeutic alternatives. METHODS This monocentric pilot study included nine refractory myasthenic patients (March 2018 to May 2020) treated by DFPP and/or IA associated with rituximab (375 mg/m2 ). Clinical responses were assessed using the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) score. RESULTS Average age of patients was 53 ± 17 years. Gender ratio (M/F) was 3:6. The combination of apheresis and rituximab reduced median MGFA score from IV to II after 12 months of follow-up. Clinical improvement assessed by MGFA score was sustained in the long-term for all patients, during an average follow-up of 14 ± 9 months, allowing them to be self-sufficient and out sick-leave. The median number of apheresis sessions was 7 (5-30). The dose of prednisolone was reduced in two patients from 40 mg/d and 30 mg/d to 7.5 mg/d and 10 mg/d, respectively. It was stopped in a patient who was taking 30 mg/d. No infectious, bleeding, or thrombosis complications were noted. CONCLUSION The combination of rituximab and DFPP was effective to treat refractory MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza N Bennani
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Emmeline Lagrange
- Exploration Fonctionnelle du Système Nerveux instead of Service de Neurologie, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Johan Noble
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Paolo Malvezzi
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Lionel Motte
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Eloi Chevallier
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France
| | - Lionel Rostaing
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, La Tronche, France
| | - Thomas Jouve
- Service de Néphrologie, Hémodialyse, Aphérèses et Transplantation Rénale, CHU Grenoble, La Tronche, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, La Tronche, France
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17
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Di Stefano V, Lupica A, Rispoli MG, Di Muzio A, Brighina F, Rodolico C. Rituximab in AChR subtype of myasthenia gravis: systematic review. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2020; 91:392-395. [PMID: 32098874 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2019-322606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disorder of the neuromuscular junction characterised by an autoantibody against acetylcholine receptor (AChR-Ab), autoantibody against muscle-specific kinase (MuSK-Ab), lipoprotein-related protein 4 or agrin in the postsynaptic membrane at the neuromuscular junction. Many patients are resistant to conventional treatment and effective therapies are needed. Rituximab (RTX) is a monoclonal antibody directed against CD20 antigen on B cells which has been successfully employed in anti-MuSK-Ab+MG, but the efficacy in anti-AChR-Ab+MG is still debated. The purpose of this systematic review was to describe the best evidence for RTX in the acetylcholine receptor subtype. The authors undertook a literature search during the period of 1999-2019 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analys methodology, employing (myasthenia)+(gravis)+(RTX) as search terms. The analysis was confined to studies that include at least five patients with confirmed anti-AChR-Ab+MG. Thirteen studies have been selected, showing a good safety. The data obtained were heterogeneous in terms of posology, administration scheme and patients' evaluation, ranging from a minimum of two to a maximum of three cycles. RTX led to a sustained clinical improvement with prolonged time to relapse, in parallel to a reduction or discontinuation of other immunosuppressive therapies. Treatment with RTX appears to work in some but not all patients with anti-AChR-Ab+MG, but randomised controlled trials are needed. Future studies should take into account the subtype of MG and employ reliable measures of outcome and severity focusing on how to identify patients who may benefit from the treatment. Trial registration number: NCT02110706.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Di Stefano
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Palermo, Sicily, Italy .,Department of Neuroscience Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Gabriele d'Annunzio University of Chieti and Pescara, Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy
| | - Antonino Lupica
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Disease, University of Messina, Messina, Sicilia, Italy
| | - Marianna Gabriella Rispoli
- Department of Neuroscience Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Gabriele d'Annunzio University of Chieti and Pescara, Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Muzio
- Department of Neurology, SS Annunziata Hospital, Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy
| | - Filippo Brighina
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Carmelo Rodolico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Disease, University of Messina, Messina, Sicilia, Italy
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