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Schwake C, Steinle J, Thiel S, Timmesfeld N, Haben S, Ayzenberg I, Gold R, Hellwig K. Neonatal B-Cell Levels and Infant Health in Newborns Potentially Exposed to Anti-CD20 Monoclonal Antibodies During Pregnancy or Lactation. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2024; 11:e200264. [PMID: 38870458 PMCID: PMC11178251 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To report CD19+ B-cell counts and possible adverse effects on infants of mothers exposed to anti-CD20 mAbs ≤6 months before/during pregnancy or lactation. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study using data from the German nationwide neuroimmunologic pregnancy registry. Inclusion criteria involved infants whose mothers received anti-CD20 mAbs ≤6 months before/during pregnancy or lactation, with ≥1 postnatal CD19+ B-cell count. Main outcomes were absolute and relative CD19+ B-cell counts. Comparison with reference values was performed conservatively in a subgroup with maternal exposure ≤3 months before/during pregnancy. Additional outcomes included pregnancy results, severe infections, and lymphocyte counts. RESULTS The cohort comprised 49 infants (F:M 25:24) exposed to anti-CD20 mAbs ≤6 months before/during pregnancy or lactation. CD19+ B-cell and lymphocyte counts in 40 infants with maternal exposure ≤3 months before/during pregnancy were comparable with normative values. Only 2 cases of complete CD19+ B-cell depletion occurred after second-trimester and third-trimester ocrelizumab exposure, with repopulation observed within 2 months. Exclusive lactation exposure had no significant effect on infants' absolute CD19+ B-cell counts. DISCUSSION Administering anti-CD20 mAbs before or at the pregnancy onset, or during lactation, seems safe without significant impact on infant B-cell development. However, second-trimester or third-trimester exposure can cause CD19+ B-cell depletion due to placental transfer, necessitating monitoring and postponing live vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Schwake
- From the Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Julia Steinle
- From the Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Sandra Thiel
- From the Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Nina Timmesfeld
- From the Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Sabrina Haben
- From the Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Ilya Ayzenberg
- From the Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Ralf Gold
- From the Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- From the Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany
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Houtchens MK. Pregnancy and reproductive health in women with multiple sclerosis: an update. Curr Opin Neurol 2024; 37:202-211. [PMID: 38587068 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated, inflammatory, neuro-degenerative disease of the central nervous system, prevalent in women of reproductive age. Today, many women want to start a family after MS diagnosis. There are over 20 treatments for MS, and safely navigating family planning is important. We review updated information on family planning, preconception, and peri-partum considerations, and reproductive concerns in special populations with MS. RECENT FINDINGS There are no MS-related restrictions on any available and appropriate contraceptive method in women with MS. The question of MS and pregnancy outcomes following assisted reproduction, remains somewhat unsettled. In many studies, no elevated relapse risk is confirmed regardless of the type of fertility treatment. MRI status may offer better assessment of postpartum disease stability than relapse rate alone. Ongoing effective MS treatments during fertility assistance and before pregnancy, can further reduce the relapse risk. B-cell depleting therapies are emerging as safe and effective treatments for peripartum MS patients. SUMMARY Patients with MS should receive accurate support and counseling related to their reproductive options. The general outlook on pregnancy and MS remains positive. The ever-increasing therapeutic complexity of MS calls for ongoing education and updated guidance for neuroimmunology and obstetrics healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria K Houtchens
- Brigham Multiple Sclerosis Center, Building for Transformative Medicine, 1set Floor, 60 Fenwood Road, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Sahloul O, Louapre C, Beigneux Y, Lubetzki C, Maillart E, Roux T. Evidence of disease activity during pregnancy and post-partum in MS patients treated with high-efficacy therapies. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 85:105557. [PMID: 38520946 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105557] [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: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) predominantly affects women of childbearing age. Due to the risk of teratogenicity, women with active multiple sclerosis (MS) who require high-efficacy therapies (HET) may need to discontinue treatment during pregnancy. Fingolimod and Natalizumab withdrawal increases the risk of disease reactivation, a risk not commonly associated with anti-CD20 therapies. However, comparative data are limited during pregnancy and post-partum. Our aim was to compare evidence of disease activity during pregnancy and post-partum in women treated with HET (anti-CD20 therapies, Natalizumab or Fingolimod) before conception, whether or not exposed during pregnancy. METHODS In this single-center retrospective study, we included consecutive pregnancies of relapsing-remitting MS patients and classified them in three groups according to the last HET used before conception: « anti-CD20 » « Natalizumab (NTZ) » and « Fingolimod (FGD) ». The main outcome was annualized relapse rate (ARR) during pregnancy and post-partum. RESULTS We included 66 pregnancies: 21, 24 and 21 in anti-CD20, NTZ and FGD groups respectively. Overall, mean ARR (SD) increased from 0.36 (0.6) during the preconception year to 0.60 (1.3) during pregnancy and to 1.03 (2.0) in the first 3 months post-partum. Mean ARR in anti-CD20 group (0.09 (0.3)) during pregnancy and the first 3 months post-partum was lower compared with NTZ (0.48 (0.6); p = 0,09) and FGD (1.50 (1.8); p = 0.001) groups. Proportion of pregnancies with radiological activity during pregnancy and post-partum in anti-CD20 group (5.2 %) was lower compared with NTZ (63.1 %; p < 0.001) and FGD (72.2 %; p < 0.001) groups. There was no significant difference in the evolution of EDSS score from conception to post-partum between each group (p = 0.75). CONCLUSION Evidence of disease activity was significantly lower in patients exposed to anti-CD20 therapies before conception. This study suggests that use of anti-CD20 therapies is an efficient option to prevent disease reactivation during pregnancy and post-partum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oussama Sahloul
- Neurology Department, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, Paris, France.
| | - Céline Louapre
- Neurology Department, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Ysoline Beigneux
- Neurology Department, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Lubetzki
- Neurology Department, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Elisabeth Maillart
- Neurology Department, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Roux
- Neurology Department, Pitié-Salpêtrière University Hospital, Paris, France
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Yamout B, Al-Jumah M, Sahraian MA, Almalik Y, Khaburi JA, Shalaby N, Aljarallah S, Bohlega S, Dahdaleh M, Almahdawi A, Khoury SJ, Koussa S, Slassi E, Daoudi S, Aref H, Mrabet S, Zeineddine M, Zakaria M, Inshasi J, Gouider R, Alroughani R. Consensus recommendations for diagnosis and treatment of Multiple Sclerosis: 2023 revision of the MENACTRIMS guidelines. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 83:105435. [PMID: 38245998 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105435] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
With evolving diagnostic criteria and the advent of new oral and parenteral therapies for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), most current diagnostic and treatment algorithms need revision and updating. The diagnosis of MS relies on incorporating clinical and paraclinical findings to prove dissemination in space and time and exclude alternative diseases that can explain the findings at hand. The differential diagnostic workup should be guided by clinical and laboratory red flags to avoid unnecessary tests. Appropriate selection of MS therapies is critical to maximize patient benefit. The current guidelines review the current diagnostic criteria for MS and the scientific evidence supporting treatment of acute relapses, radiologically isolated syndrome, clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing remitting MS, progressive MS, pediatric cases and pregnant women. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide practical recommendations and algorithms for the diagnosis and treatment of MS based on current scientific evidence and clinical experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Yamout
- Neurology Institute and Multiple Sclerosis Center, Harley Street Medical Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
| | - M Al-Jumah
- InterHealth hospital, Multiple Sclerosis Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - M A Sahraian
- Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Y Almalik
- Division of Neurology, College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, National Guard Health Affairs, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - J Al Khaburi
- Department of Neurology, The Royal Hospital, Sultanate of Oman
| | - N Shalaby
- Neurology Department, Kasr Al-Ainy School of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - S Bohlega
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - A Almahdawi
- Consultant Neurologist, Neurology Unit, Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Medical City Complex, Iraq
| | - S J Khoury
- Nehme and Therese Tohme Multiple Sclerosis Center, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - S Koussa
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, Geitaoui Lebanese University Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - E Slassi
- Hôpital Cheikh Khalifa Ibn Zaid, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - S Daoudi
- Hospital Center Nedir Mohamed, Faculty of Medicine, University Mouloud Mammeri Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria
| | - H Aref
- Neurology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - S Mrabet
- Department of Neurology, CIC, Razi Universitary Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - M Zeineddine
- Middle East and North Africa Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (MENACTRIMS), Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - J Inshasi
- Department of Neurology, Rashid Hospital and Dubai Medical College, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - R Gouider
- Department of Neurology, CIC, Razi Universitary Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - R Alroughani
- Amiri Hospital, Arabian Gulf Street, Sharq, Kuwait
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5
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Thiel S, Hellwig K. Anti-CD20 therapy in pregnancy: Balancing risks and benefits. Mult Scler 2024; 30:274-275. [PMID: 38149611 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231222125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Thiel
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Siriratnam P, Huda S, Butzkueven H, van der Walt A, Jokubaitis V, Monif M. Risks and outcomes of pregnancy in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: A comprehensive review. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103499. [PMID: 38061621 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103499] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare central nervous system autoimmune disease. Aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-IgG) is present in over 75% of cases and criteria also exist for the diagnosis of seronegative NMOSD. AQP4-IgG NMOSD has a strong female predominance (9:1 ratio), with a median onset age of 40 years. Pregnancy in those with NMOSD is therefore an important topic. Fecundity in NMOSD is likely impaired, and for females who conceive, obstetric complications including miscarriages and pre-eclampsia are significantly higher in NMOSD compared to the general population and in related conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS). In contrast to MS, NMOSD disease activity does not subside during pregnancy. Also, relapse risk substantially rises above pre-pregnancy rates in the early postpartum period. In view of the evolving landscape of NMOSD, we provide a contemporary update of the impacts of pregnancy in NMOSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pakeeran Siriratnam
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Saif Huda
- Department of Neurology, Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Helmut Butzkueven
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anneke van der Walt
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vilija Jokubaitis
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mastura Monif
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
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7
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Inojosa H, Ziemssen T. [Current and innovative Approaches to Multiple Sclerosis Therapy]. FORTSCHRITTE DER NEUROLOGIE-PSYCHIATRIE 2024; 92:41-60. [PMID: 38272020 DOI: 10.1055/a-2167-1391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
The landscape of immunotherapies in the management of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is currently particularly dynamic. Over 21 immunotherapeutic options are approved by the European Meidcines Agency (EMA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and newer approaches are ongoing in clinical trials. With advancements in the understanding of MS pathophysiology and further development of diagnosis criteria, newer and more specific disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have emerged in recent years. The selection and timing of proper therapeutic approaches is increasingly complex. We provide an overview of the available immunotherapies for a personalized MS treatment and discuss practical insights into their application. The importance of early intervention, distinction between escalation and induction approaches, and consideration of high-efficacy treatments for specific patient groups are in discussed. We emphasize the significance of a patient-centered approach, taking into account various factors such as comorbidities, family planning, administration preferences and potential side effects in treatment decision-making.
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Kümpfel T, Giglhuber K, Aktas O, Ayzenberg I, Bellmann-Strobl J, Häußler V, Havla J, Hellwig K, Hümmert MW, Jarius S, Kleiter I, Klotz L, Krumbholz M, Paul F, Ringelstein M, Ruprecht K, Senel M, Stellmann JP, Bergh FT, Trebst C, Tumani H, Warnke C, Wildemann B, Berthele A. Update on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) - revised recommendations of the Neuromyelitis Optica Study Group (NEMOS). Part II: Attack therapy and long-term management. J Neurol 2024; 271:141-176. [PMID: 37676297 PMCID: PMC10770020 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11910-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
This manuscript presents practical recommendations for managing acute attacks and implementing preventive immunotherapies for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD), a rare autoimmune disease that causes severe inflammation in the central nervous system (CNS), primarily affecting the optic nerves, spinal cord, and brainstem. The pillars of NMOSD therapy are attack treatment and attack prevention to minimize the accrual of neurological disability. Aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G antibodies (AQP4-IgG) are a diagnostic marker of the disease and play a significant role in its pathogenicity. Recent advances in understanding NMOSD have led to the development of new therapies and the completion of randomized controlled trials. Four preventive immunotherapies have now been approved for AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD in many regions of the world: eculizumab, ravulizumab - most recently-, inebilizumab, and satralizumab. These new drugs may potentially substitute rituximab and classical immunosuppressive therapies, which were as yet the mainstay of treatment for both, AQP4-IgG-positive and -negative NMOSD. Here, the Neuromyelitis Optica Study Group (NEMOS) provides an overview of the current state of knowledge on NMOSD treatments and offers statements and practical recommendations on the therapy management and use of all available immunotherapies for this disease. Unmet needs and AQP4-IgG-negative NMOSD are also discussed. The recommendations were developed using a Delphi-based consensus method among the core author group and at expert discussions at NEMOS meetings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Kümpfel
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, LMU Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.
| | - Katrin Giglhuber
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Technical University Munich, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Orhan Aktas
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ilya Ayzenberg
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Judith Bellmann-Strobl
- Department of Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vivien Häußler
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neuroimmunology and MS (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joachim Havla
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, LMU Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Martin W Hümmert
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Sven Jarius
- Molecular Neuroimmunology Group, Department of Neurology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ingo Kleiter
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- Marianne-Strauß-Klinik, Behandlungszentrum Kempfenhausen für Multiple Sklerose Kranke, Berg, Germany
| | - Luisa Klotz
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Markus Krumbholz
- Department of Neurology and Pain Treatment, Immanuel Klinik Rüdersdorf, University Hospital of the Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Rüdersdorf bei Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology & Stroke, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- Department of Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a cooperation between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association and Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marius Ringelstein
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neurology and Neuropsychiatry, LVR-Klinikum, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Klemens Ruprecht
- Department of Neurology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Makbule Senel
- Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jan-Patrick Stellmann
- Department of Neurology and Institute of Neuroimmunology and MS (INIMS), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- APHM, Hopital de la Timone, CEMEREM, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, CRMBM, Marseille, France
| | | | - Corinna Trebst
- Molecular Neuroimmunology Group, Department of Neurology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Clemens Warnke
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Brigitte Wildemann
- Marianne-Strauß-Klinik, Behandlungszentrum Kempfenhausen für Multiple Sklerose Kranke, Berg, Germany
| | - Achim Berthele
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Technical University Munich, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany.
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Wang Y, Wang J, Feng J. Multiple sclerosis and pregnancy: Pathogenesis, influencing factors, and treatment options. Autoimmun Rev 2023; 22:103449. [PMID: 37741528 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103449] [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: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune-mediated degenerative disease of the central nervous system, characterized by inflammatory demyelination. It is primarily found in women of childbearing age, making pregnancy a significant concern for both patients with MS and clinicians. To assist these patients in achieving their desire for pregnancy, reducing MS relapses during all stages of pregnancy, preventing the progression of MS, mitigating the impact of MS treatment on the course and outcome of pregnancy, and a thorough understanding of the relationship between pregnancy and MS, as well as specific management and the application of relevant medications for MS patients at each stage of pregnancy, are essential. This article provides an update on pregnancy-related issues in women with MS, including the general recommendations for management at each stage of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinxiang Wang
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao St., Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jue Wang
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao St., Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Juan Feng
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao St., Shenyang 110004, China.
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Khan E, Kagzi Y, Elkhooly M, Surpur S, Wen S, Sharma K, Sriwastava S. Disease modifying therapy and pregnancy outcomes in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neuroimmunol 2023; 383:578178. [PMID: 37672841 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578178] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To report pregnancy outcomes among multiple sclerosis (MS) patients treated with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). METHODS We performed a retrospective chart review of articles published from June 1996 to May 2023. Additional information was acquired from the drug registries of individual pharmaceutical companies. A comparison was also made with pregnancy data of the general population using the World Health Organization database. Summary analysis was achieved using R statistical software (v3.6), and the overall prevalence of outcomes was estimated using a random effects model. RESULTS A meta-analysis of 44 studies was conducted. Dimethyl fumarate had the highest prevalence of premature births at 0.6667% (SD:0.5236-0.7845). The highest rates of stillbirths and infant deaths (perinatal and neonatal) were observed with interferons at 0.004% (SD:0.001-0.010) and 0.009% (SD:0.005-0.0015), respectively. Cladribine had the majority of ectopic pregnancies (0.0234%, SD:0.0041-1217), while natalizumab had the highest prevalence of spontaneous abortions (0.1177%, SD:0.0931-0.1477) and live birth defects (0.0755%, SD:0.0643-0.0943).None of the outcomes were significantly different from those of the general population (p > 0.05), except ectopic pregnancy and spontaneous abortion (p < 0.001), where the odds were 0.665 (0.061-0.886) and 0.537(0.003-0.786), respectively. The pooled prevalence of MS relapses was 221% for a single episode (SD:0.001-0.714), 0.075% for more than one episode (SD:0.006-0.167), and 0.141% for at least one episode requiring steroids (SD:0.073-0.206) none of these reached clinical significance. CONCLUSION Existing research suggests that DMT use in MS patients during pregnancy is generally considered safe. This study supports their utilization on a case-by-case basis. However, further primary research on this topic with clinical trials is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erum Khan
- Department of Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL,USA
| | - Yusuf Kagzi
- Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College, Indore, India
| | - Mahmoud Elkhooly
- Department of Neurology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University, Springfield, IL, USA; Department of Neuropsychiatry, Minia University, Egypt
| | | | - Sijin Wen
- West Virginia Clinical Transitional Science, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Kanika Sharma
- Division of Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School (UT Health), University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX,USA
| | - Shitiz Sriwastava
- Division of Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School (UT Health), University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX,USA.
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Demortiere S, Maarouf A, Rico A, Boutiere C, Hilezian F, Durozard P, Pelletier J, Audoin B. Disease Evolution in Women With Highly Active MS Who Suspended Natalizumab During Pregnancy vs Rituximab/Ocrelizumab Before Conception. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2023; 10:e200161. [PMID: 37550074 PMCID: PMC10406425 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES In women with highly active multiple sclerosis (MS), suspending rituximab (RTX) for planning pregnancy is associated with low disease reactivation. Whether this strategy reduces the risk of disease reactivity as compared with suspending natalizumab (NTZ) 3 months after conception is unclear. METHODS We retrospectively included women with MS followed in our department during pregnancy and 1 year after birth who suspended NTZ at the end of the first trimester (option mostly proposed before 2016) or suspended RTX/ocrelizumab (RTX/OCR) in the year before conception (option proposed since 2016). RESULTS In women who suspended NTZ, 45 pregnancies resulted in 3 miscarriages and 42 live births, including 1 newborn with major malformations. In women who suspended RTX/OCR, 37 pregnancies resulted in 3 miscarriages and 33 live births; 1 pregnancy was terminated for malformation. During pregnancy, relapse occurred in 3/42 (7.1%) patients of the NTZ group and 1/33 (3%) of the RTX/OCR group (p = 0.6). After delivery, relapse occurred in 9/42 (21.4%) patients of the NTZ group and 0/33 of the RTX/OCR group (p < 0.01). In the NTZ group, 8/9 relapses occurred in patients who restarted NTZ less than 4 weeks after delivery. The proportion of patients with gadolinium-enhanced and/or new T2 lesions on brain or spinal cord MRI performed after delivery was higher in the NTZ than RTX/OCR group (14/40 [35%] vs 1/31 [3%] patients, p = 0.001), the proportion with EDSS score progression during the period including pregnancy and the year after delivery was higher (7/42 [17%] vs 0/33 patients, p = 0.01), and the proportion fulfilling NEDA-3 during this period was lower (21/40 [53%] vs 30/31 [97%] patients, p < 0.001). DISCUSSION Suspending RTX/OCR in the year before conception in women with highly active MS was associated with no disease reactivation during and after pregnancy. As previously reported, stopping NTZ at the end of the first trimester was associated with disease reactivation. In women receiving NTZ who are planning pregnancy, a bridge to RTX/OCR for pregnancy or continuing NTZ until week 34 are both reasonable clinical decisions. The RTX/OCR option is more comfortable for women and reduces the exposure of infants to monoclonal antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Demortiere
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Adil Maarouf
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Audrey Rico
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Clemence Boutiere
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Frederic Hilezian
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Pierre Durozard
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Jean Pelletier
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France
| | - Bertrand Audoin
- From the Department of Neurology (S.D., A.M., A.R., C.B., F.H., J.P., B.A.), CRMBM, APHM, Aix Marseille University; and Centre Hospitalier d'Ajaccio (P.D.), France.
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12
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Lazzaro C, Mazzanti NA, Rossi S, Parazzini F. Inebilizumab for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders in Italy: a budget impact model. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2023; 23:1185-1200. [PMID: 37795872 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2023.2267176] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Italian National Health Service (INHS) has recently reimbursed the monoclonal antibody inebilizumab as a second line monotherapy after rituximab (RTX) use for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) patients ≥ 18 years anti-aquaporin 4 antibody-immunoglobulin G positive, who experienced a relapse in the last year or cannot receive RTX, if incident patients. Other INHS-reimbursed drugs for NMOSD treatment are satralizumab, eculizumab and, off-label, besides RTX, ocrelizumab, tocilizumab, and immunosuppressants. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A 3-year (2023-2025) prevalence-based budget impact model following the INHS viewpoint compared the costs and the NMOSD attacks without (1st scenario) and with inebilizumab (2nd scenario). The epidemiology of NMOSD, and the INHS-funded healthcare resources (drugs and their administration; specialist visits; hospitalizations due to drug-related adverse events and NMOSD attacks) were obtained from the literature. One-way, threshold value and scenario sensitivity analyses investigated the robustness of the baseline findings. RESULTS During 2023-2025 inebilizumab saves the INHS €8,373,125.13 (1st scenario: €176,770,028.63; 2nd scenario: €168,396,903.50) and 12.74 NMOSD attacks (1st scenario: 213.94; 2nd scenario: 201.19). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the baseline results. CONCLUSION Inebilizumab reduces the INHS expenditure for NMOSD drugs. Future research should explore the cost-effectiveness of inebilizumab vs other NMOSD-targeting drugs in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Lazzaro
- Studio di Economia Sanitaria, Milan, Italy
- Biology and Biotechnologies Department "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Fabio Parazzini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health (DISCCO), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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13
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Hellwig K, Tokic M, Thiel S, Hemat S, Timmesfeld N, Ciplea AI, Gold R, Langer-Gould AM. Multiple Sclerosis Disease Activity and Disability Following Cessation of Fingolimod for Pregnancy. NEUROLOGY(R) NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2023; 10:10/4/e200110. [PMID: 37217309 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000200110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Discontinuation of fingolimod ≥2 months before pregnancy is recommended to minimize potential teratogenicity. The magnitude of MS pregnancy relapse risk, particularly severe relapses, after fingolimod cessation is unclear, as is whether this risk is reduced by pregnancy or modifiable factors. METHODS Pregnancies who stopped fingolimod treatment within 1 year before or during pregnancy were identified from the German MS and Pregnancy Registry. Data were collected through structured telephone-administered questionnaires and neurologists' notes. Severe relapses were defined as a ≥2.0 increase in Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) or new or worsening relapse-related ambulatory impairment. Women who continued to meet this definition 1 year postpartum were classified as reaching the Severe Relapse Disability Composite Score (SRDCS). Multivariable models accounting for measures of disease severity and repeated events were used. RESULTS Of the 213 pregnancies among 201 women (mean age at pregnancy onset 32 years) identified, 56.81% (n = 121) discontinued fingolimod after conception. Relapses during pregnancy (31.46%) and the postpartum year (44.60%) were common. Nine pregnancies had a severe relapse during pregnancy and additional 3 during the postpartum year. One year postpartum, 11 of these (6.32% of n = 174 with complete EDSS information) reached the SRDCS. Adjusted relapse rates during pregnancy were slightly higher compared with the year before pregnancy (relapse rate ratio = 1.24, 95% CI 0.91-1.68). Neither exclusive breastfeeding nor resuming fingolimod within 4 weeks of delivery were associated with a reduced risk of postpartum relapses. Most pregnancies relapsed during the first 3 months postpartum (n = 55/204, 26.96%). DISCUSSION Relapses during pregnancy after fingolimod cessation are common. Approximately 6% of women will retain clinically meaningful disability from these pregnancy-related, fingolimod cessation relapses 1 year postpartum. This information should be shared with women on fingolimod desiring pregnancy, and optimizing MS treatment with nonteratogenic approaches should be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Hellwig
- From the Department of Neurology (K.H., S.T., S.H., A.I.C., R.G.), St. Josef-Hospital-Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum; Department of Medical Informatics (M.T., N.T.), Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany; Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group.
| | - Marianne Tokic
- From the Department of Neurology (K.H., S.T., S.H., A.I.C., R.G.), St. Josef-Hospital-Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum; Department of Medical Informatics (M.T., N.T.), Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany; Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group
| | - Sandra Thiel
- From the Department of Neurology (K.H., S.T., S.H., A.I.C., R.G.), St. Josef-Hospital-Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum; Department of Medical Informatics (M.T., N.T.), Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany; Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group
| | - Spalmai Hemat
- From the Department of Neurology (K.H., S.T., S.H., A.I.C., R.G.), St. Josef-Hospital-Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum; Department of Medical Informatics (M.T., N.T.), Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany; Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group
| | - Nina Timmesfeld
- From the Department of Neurology (K.H., S.T., S.H., A.I.C., R.G.), St. Josef-Hospital-Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum; Department of Medical Informatics (M.T., N.T.), Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany; Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group
| | - Andrea I Ciplea
- From the Department of Neurology (K.H., S.T., S.H., A.I.C., R.G.), St. Josef-Hospital-Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum; Department of Medical Informatics (M.T., N.T.), Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany; Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group
| | - Ralf Gold
- From the Department of Neurology (K.H., S.T., S.H., A.I.C., R.G.), St. Josef-Hospital-Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum; Department of Medical Informatics (M.T., N.T.), Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany; Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group
| | - Annette M Langer-Gould
- From the Department of Neurology (K.H., S.T., S.H., A.I.C., R.G.), St. Josef-Hospital-Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum; Department of Medical Informatics (M.T., N.T.), Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany; Department of Neurology (A.M.L.-G.), Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group
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Leite MI, Panahloo Z, Harrison N, Palace J. A systematic literature review to examine the considerations around pregnancy in women of child-bearing age with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) or aquaporin 4 neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4+ NMOSD). Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 75:104760. [PMID: 37224631 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aquaporin-4 antibody positive (AQP4+) neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) are rare autoimmune diseases with overlapping phenotypes. Understanding their clinical manifestation prior to, during and after pregnancy may influence the management of women of child-bearing age (WOCBA) with these diseases. METHODS This systematic review identified relevant MEDLINE-indexed publications dated between 01 January 2011 and 01 November 2021, and congress materials from key conferences between 01 January 2019 and 01 November 2021. These were manually assessed for relevance to AQP4+ NMOSD and/or MOGAD in WOCBA, with selected data extracted and considered. RESULTS In total, 107 articles were retrieved and reviewed for relevancy, including 65 clinical studies. Limited evidence was found regarding a conclusive impact of either disease on female fertility, sexual function or menarche, and impact on maternal outcomes requires further investigation in both conditions to establish risk for pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes and other complications relative to the general population. Collated data for pregnancy outcomes show clear risks in AQP4+ NMOSD to healthy delivery and a rise in annualised relapse rate postpartum that may require adaptation of treatment regimens. Disease activity appears to be attenuated during pregnancy in MOGAD patients with an increased risk of relapse during the postpartum months, but strong conclusions cannot be made due to a paucity of available data. CONCLUSIONS This review brings together the literature on AQP4+ NMOSD and MOGAD in WOCBA. The potential impact of pregnancy and the postpartum period on disease activity suggest a proactive management strategy early on may improve maternal and infant outcomes, but more clinical data are needed, particularly for MOGAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Isabel Leite
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK.
| | | | | | - Jacqueline Palace
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
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15
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Krysko KM, Dobson R, Alroughani R, Amato MP, Bove R, Ciplea AI, Fragoso Y, Houtchens M, Jokubaitis VG, Magyari M, Abdelnasser A, Padma V, Thiel S, Tintore M, Vukusic S, Hellwig K. Family planning considerations in people with multiple sclerosis. Lancet Neurol 2023; 22:350-366. [PMID: 36931808 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(22)00426-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is often diagnosed in patients who are planning on having children. Although multiple sclerosis does not negatively influence most pregnancy outcomes, less is known regarding the effects of fetal exposure to novel disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). The withdrawal of some DMTs during pregnancy can modify the natural history of multiple sclerosis, resulting in a substantial risk of pregnancy-related relapse and disability. Drug labels are typically restrictive and favour fetal safety over maternal safety. Emerging data reporting outcomes in neonates exposed to DMTs in utero and through breastfeeding will allow for more careful and individualised treatment decisions. This emerging research is particularly important to guide decision making in women with high disease activity or who are treated with DMTs associated with risk of discontinuation rebound. As increasing data are generated in this field, periodic updates will be required to provide the most up to date guidance on how best to achieve multiple sclerosis stability during pregnancy and post partum, balanced with fetal and newborn safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen M Krysko
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, St Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ruth Dobson
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University London, London, UK; Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Raed Alroughani
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, Amiri Hospital, Sharq, Kuwait
| | - Maria Pia Amato
- Department NEUROFARBA, Section of Neurosciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Florence, Italy
| | - Riley Bove
- UCSF Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Andrea I Ciplea
- Department of Neurology, Katholisches Klinikum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Yara Fragoso
- Multiple Sclerosis and Headache Research Institute, Santos, Brazil; Departamento de Neurologia, Universidade Metropolitana de Santos, Santos, Brazil
| | - Maria Houtchens
- Department of Neurology, Partners MS Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vilija G Jokubaitis
- Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Melinda Magyari
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Azza Abdelnasser
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Vasantha Padma
- Department of Neurology, Neurosciences Center, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Sandra Thiel
- Department of Neurology, Katholisches Klinikum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Mar Tintore
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology, Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sandra Vukusic
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Service de Neurologie, sclérose en plaques, pathologies de la myéline et neuro-inflammation, Bron, France; Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, Observatoire Français de la Sclérose en Plaques, INSERM 1028 et CNRS UMR 5292, Lyon, France; Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; Eugène Devic EDMUS Foundation against multiple sclerosis, state-approved foundation, Bron, France
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Department of Neurology, Katholisches Klinikum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
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16
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Dost-Kovalsky K, Thiel S, Ciplea AI, Gold R, Hellwig K. Cladribine and pregnancy in women with multiple sclerosis: The first cohort study. Mult Scler 2023; 29:461-465. [PMID: 36278327 DOI: 10.1177/13524585221131486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As cladribine is contraindicated in pregnancy, data to pregnancy outcomes and disease control are scarce. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of Cladribine use, in the last 6 months prior (56.4%) to or after (43.6%) the last menstrual period in a population of women with multiple sclerosis, on pregnancy outcomes and relapse rate during pregnancy and postpartum. METHODS Data were collected prospectively in regular telephone interviews. RESULTS Of 39 pregnancies, 27 babies have been born so far and one major congenital malformation occurred. Disease control was excellent among the cohort both during pregnancy and the postpartum period, with only one relapse recorded in each time period. CONCLUSIONS Although most newborns are healthy, reinforced councelling on effective contraception 6 months after the last cladribine dosing is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Dost-Kovalsky
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Sandra Thiel
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Andrea I Ciplea
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Ralf Gold
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Gudrunstraße 56, 44791 Bochum, Germany
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17
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Dobson R, Rog D, Ovadia C, Murray K, Hughes S, Ford HL, Pearson OR, White S, Bonham N, Mathews J, Nelson-Piercy C, Brex P. Anti-CD20 therapies in pregnancy and breast feeding: a review and ABN guidelines. Pract Neurol 2023; 23:6-14. [PMID: 35803727 DOI: 10.1136/pn-2022-003426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Neurologists increasingly use anti-CD20 therapies, including for women of childbearing age, despite these medications being unlicensed for use in pregnancy. Current evidence suggests that women can safely conceive while taking anti-CD20 therapy. Women should not be denied treatment during pregnancy when it is clinically indicated, although they should be counselled regarding live vaccinations for their infant. Women receiving regular ocrelizumab for multiple sclerosis should preferably wait 3 months before trying to conceive. There are few data around ofatumumab in pregnancy, and while there is probably a class effect across all anti-CD20 therapies, ofatumumab may need to be continued during pregnancy to maintain efficacy. We recommend that anti-CD20 therapies can be safely given while breast feeding. It is important to make time to discuss treatments with women of childbearing age to help them choose their most suitable treatment. Outcomes should be monitored in pregnancy registries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Dobson
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University, London, UK .,Department of Neurology, The Royal London Hospital, London, UK
| | - David Rog
- Manchester Centre for Clinical Neurosciences, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | - Caroline Ovadia
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Katy Murray
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Department of Neurology, Forth Valley Royal Hospital, Larbert, UK
| | - Stella Hughes
- Department of Neurology, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, UK
| | - Helen L Ford
- Department of Neurology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK.,Department of Neurosciences, University of Leeds Faculty of Medicine and Health, Leeds, UK
| | - Owen R Pearson
- Department of Neurology, Morriston Hospital, Swansea, UK
| | - Sarah White
- Department of Neurology, St George's Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Nicola Bonham
- Department of Neurology, Forth Valley Royal Hospital, Larbert, UK
| | - Joela Mathews
- Department of Neurology, The Royal London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Catherine Nelson-Piercy
- Department of Obstetrics, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK.,Department of Obstetrics, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Peter Brex
- Department of Neurology, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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18
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de Sèze J, Maillart E, Gueguen A, Laplaud DA, Michel L, Thouvenot E, Zephir H, Zimmer L, Biotti D, Liblau R. Anti-CD20 therapies in multiple sclerosis: From pathology to the clinic. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1004795. [PMID: 37033984 PMCID: PMC10076836 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1004795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system plays a significant role in multiple sclerosis. While MS was historically thought to be T cell-mediated, multiple pieces of evidence now support the view that B cells are essential players in multiple sclerosis pathogenic processes. High-efficacy disease-modifying therapies that target the immune system have emerged over the past two decades. Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies selectively deplete CD20+ B and CD20+ T cells and efficiently suppress inflammatory disease activity. These monotherapies prevent relapses, reduce new or active magnetic resonance imaging brain lesions, and lessen disability progression in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis. Rituximab, ocrelizumab, and ofatumumab are currently used in clinical practice, while phase III clinical trials for ublituximab have been recently completed. In this review, we compare the four anti-CD20 antibodies in terms of their mechanisms of action, routes of administration, immunological targets, and pharmacokinetic properties. A deeper understanding of the individual properties of these molecules in relation to their efficacy and safety profiles is critical for their use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme de Sèze
- Department of Neurology, Hôpital de Hautepierre, Clinical Investigation Center, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationelle, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Strasbourg, France
- *Correspondence: Jérôme de Sèze,
| | - Elisabeth Maillart
- Department of Neurology, Pitié Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France
- Centre de Ressources et de Compétences Sclérose en Plaques, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Gueguen
- Department of Neurology, Rothschild Ophthalmologic Foundation, Paris, France
| | - David A. Laplaud
- Department of Neurology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Nantes, Nantes Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre d’Investigation Clinique (CIC), Center for Research in Transplantation and Translational Immunology, UMR, UMR1064, Nantes, France
| | - Laure Michel
- Clinical Neuroscience Centre, CIC_P1414 Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Rennes University Hospital, Rennes University, Rennes, France
- Microenvironment, Cell Differentiation, Immunology and Cancer Unit, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Rennes I University, French Blood Agency, Rennes, France
- Neurology Department, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France
| | - Eric Thouvenot
- Department of Neurology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Nîmes, University of Montpellier, Nîmes, France
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, UMR, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Hélène Zephir
- University of Lille, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1172, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU), Lille, France
| | - Luc Zimmer
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), CNRS, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Lyon, France
| | - Damien Biotti
- Centre Ressources et Compétences Sclérose En Plaques (CRC-SEP) and Department of Neurology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Toulouse Purpan – Hôpital Pierre-Paul Riquet, Toulouse, France
| | - Roland Liblau
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (Infinity), University of Toulouse, CNRS, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), UPS, Toulouse, France
- Department of Immunology, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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Wang L, Su M, Zhou Z, Zhou L, ZhangBao J, Tan H, Huang W, Chang X, Lu C, Yu J, Wang M, Lu J, Zhao C, Zhang T, Quan C. Analysis of Pregnancy-Related Attacks in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2225438. [PMID: 35925605 PMCID: PMC9353597 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.25438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Risk of relapse may be increased in the postpartum period of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Information regarding factors associated with pregnancy-related attacks is still lacking. OBJECTIVES To identify factors associated with pregnancy-related NMOSD attacks, investigate the integrated annualized relapse rate (ARR) and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score in each phase of pregnancy, and summarize pregnancy outcomes and complications in patients with NMOSD. DATA SOURCES An electronic search was performed in the MEDLINE, PubMed in-process and non-MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases using the OvidSP search platform, updated through December 30, 2021. STUDY SELECTION All published and unpublished studies in English were considered, covering all patients with NMOSD with an informative pregnancy. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two independent reviewers extracted the published data with a standardized procedure following MOOSE and PRISMA guidelines. The end points were calculated with the DerSimonian and Laird inverse variance (for random effects) method. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was the rate of pregnancies with pregnancy-related NMOSD attacks, measured by risk ratios (RRs). The mean differences (MDs) in ARR and EDSS scores between each phase of pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes, and complications were defined as the secondary outcomes. RESULTS A total of 15 studies were analyzed, including 443 patients with NMOSD with 639 informative pregnancies. Patients receiving immunosuppressive treatment during pregnancy (RR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.32-0.57; P < .001) and with older age at conception (RR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.47-0.95; P = .02) had lower rates of pregnancy with pregnancy-related attacks. The increase in the ARR was highest in the first trimester after delivery compared with before pregnancy (MD, 1.28; 95% CI, 0.94-1.62; P < .001). The EDSS scores increased significantly both during pregnancy (MD, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.20-0.69; P < .001) and in the postpartum period (MD, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.51-1.26; P < .001) compared with before pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This systematic review and meta-analysis found that receiving immunosuppressive treatment during pregnancy and older age at conception were associated with reduced risk of pregnancy-related NMOSD attacks, which mostly occurred in the first trimester of the postpartum period, although more high-quality prospective studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Wang
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Manqiqige Su
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhirui Zhou
- Radiation Oncology Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingzi ZhangBao
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongmei Tan
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjuan Huang
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuechun Chang
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuanzhen Lu
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye and ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiahong Lu
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Chongbo Zhao
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Tiansong Zhang
- Department of Chinese Traditional Medicine, Jing’an District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Quan
- Department of Neurology and Rare Disease Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
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Pregnancy outcomes in women with pemphigus exposed to rituximab before or during pregnancy. Int J Womens Dermatol 2022; 8:e038. [PMID: 35837335 PMCID: PMC9276145 DOI: 10.1097/jw9.0000000000000038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Rituximab (RTX) is an effective treatment for pemphigus; however, the drug labeling recommends not to use RTX within 1 year before conception.
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Shi M, Chu F, Jin T, Zhu J. Progress in treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD): Novel insights into therapeutic possibilities in NMOSD. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 28:981-991. [PMID: 35426485 PMCID: PMC9160456 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS), which is a severely disabling disorder leading to devastating sequelae or even death. Repeated acute attacks and the presence of aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G (AQP4-IgG) antibody are the typical characteristics of NMOSD. Recently, the phase III trials of the newly developed biologicals therapies have shown their effectiveness and good tolerance to a certain extent when compared with the traditional therapy with the first- and second-line drugs. However, there is still a lack of large sample, double-blind, randomized, clinical studies to confirm their efficacy, safety, and tolerability. Especially, these drugs have no clear effect on NMOSD patients without AQP4-IgG and refractory patients. Therefore, it is of strong demand to further conduct large sample, double-blind, randomized, clinical trials, and novel therapeutic possibilities in NMOSD are discussed briefly here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingchao Shi
- Neuroscience Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrcs, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fengna Chu
- Neuroscience Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrcs, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tao Jin
- Neuroscience Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Neuroscience Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences & Society, Division of Neurogeriatrcs, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
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22
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Normal B cell ranges in infants: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2022; 150:1216-1224. [PMID: 35728653 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2022.06.006] [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: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the first year of life, B cell level is a valuable indicator of whether external factors, such as exposure to B cell depleting therapies, have an adverse impact on immune system development. However, there are no standard reference ranges of B cell levels in healthy infants by age. OBJECTIVE To estimate the normal range of B cell levels in infants, by age, during the first year of life, by pooling data from published studies. METHODS Studies reporting B cell levels measured using flow cytometry and CD19 markers in healthy infants were identified via a systematic literature review. Quality and feasibility assessments determined suitability for inclusion in meta-analyses by age group and/or continuous age. Means and normal ranges (2.5th-97.5th percentile) were estimated for absolute and percentage B cell levels. Sensitivity analyses assessed the impact of various assumptions. RESULTS Of 37 relevant studies identified, 28 were included in at least 1 meta-analysis. Means and normal ranges of B cell levels were found to be 707 (123-2324) cells/μL in cord blood, 508 (132-1369) cells/μL at age 0-1 month, 1493 (416-3877) cells/μL at age 1-6 months and 1474 (416-3805) cells/μL at age >6 months. The continuous age model showed that B cell levels peaked at week 26. Trends were similar for the percentage B cell estimates and in sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSION These meta-analyses provide the first normal reference ranges for B cell levels in infants, by week of age, during the first year of life.
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Bove R, Hellwig K, Pasquarelli N, Borriello F, Dobson R, Oreja-Guevara C, Lin CJ, Zecevic D, Craveiro L, McElrath T, Vukusic S. Ocrelizumab during pregnancy and lactation: Rationale and design of the MINORE and SOPRANINO studies in women with MS and their infants. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 64:103963. [PMID: 35753176 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.103963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) are not recommended during pregnancy, and discouraged while breastfeeding. However, discontinuation of some DMTs before pregnancy can leave women vulnerable to MS relapses. Although available data on ocrelizumab suggest no increased risk in terms of pregnancy or neonatal outcomes, it is unknown whether ocrelizumab transfers across the placenta or is absorbed through breastmilk; and if so, whether infant B cell development, immune responses or growth and development are affected. This manuscript describes two studies designed to address these uncertainties. METHODS/DESIGN MINORE and SOPRANINO are multicentre open-label studies. MINORE, which addresses placental transfer, will recruit 44 women with MS or clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) exposed to ocrelizumab between 6 months before the last menstrual period (LMP) to the end of the first trimester. It will evaluate pharmacodynamic effects of potential in utero exposure through the proportion of infants with B cell numbers below lower limit of normal (LLN) at week 6 of life (primary endpoint); as well as through vaccine-induced antibody responses (reflecting B cell function) during the first year of life. Placental transfer will be assessed through measurement of ocrelizumab concentrations in paired samples at delivery (maternal blood as well as umbilical cord blood), and infant serum at week 6 of life. SOPRANINO, which evaluates breastmilk transfer, will recruit 20 women with MS or CIS who resume or initiate ocrelizumab treatment while breastfeeding. The effect of potential exposure through breastmilk will be assessed through the proportion of infants with B cell levels below LLN at 30 days after the mother's first post-partum ocrelizumab infusion (co-primary endpoint). Infant exposure via breastmilk will be assessed through ocrelizumab average daily infant dose in breastmilk over 60 days after the same infusion (co-primary endpoint). Vaccine-induced responses will be measured as in MINORE. Both studies will also measure infant growth and development over the first year of life and safety outcomes in both mothers and infants. All analyses will be descriptive, under an estimand framework. DISCUSSION Both studies are designed to mimic real-world clinical practice. Treatment decisions for ocrelizumab are independent from study participation; as such, these studies will recruit women who decide, along with their physicians, to continue their pregnancies despite potential in utero exposure (for MINORE); or to breastfeed while under ocrelizumab treatment (for SOPRANINO). MINORE is the first prospective study to measure placental transfer of any DMT in MS, and to perform comprehensive assessments in infants and mothers. Results may inform the optimal contraception period for women treated with ocrelizumab who are planning a pregnancy. Similarly, SOPRANINO is the first prospective study to measure pharmacodynamic effects of ocrelizumab in breastfed infants in addition to pharmacokinetic parameters in breastmilk. SOPRANINO may establish whether breastfeeding is safe for infants whose mothers received treatment with ocrelizumab. CONCLUSION By collecting detailed pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and safety information, MINORE and SOPRANINO will contribute to understanding the risk/benefit of ocrelizumab in pregnant and lactating women with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley Bove
- Department of Neurology, UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, St. Josef Hospital, Universitätsklinikum der Ruhr-Universität, Bochum, Germany
| | | | | | - Ruth Dobson
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Thomas McElrath
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sandra Vukusic
- Service de Neurologie et Sclérose en Plaques, Fondation Eugène Devic EDMUS contre la Sclérose en Plaques, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Lyon, France
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Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that often progresses to severe disability. Previous studies have highlighted the role of T cells in disease pathophysiology; however, the success of B-cell-targeted therapies has led to an increased interest in how B cells contribute to disease immunopathology. In this review, we summarize evidence of B-cell involvement in MS disease mechanisms, starting with pathology and moving on to review aspects of B cell immunobiology potentially relevant to MS. We describe current theories of critical B cell contributions to the inflammatory CNS milieu in MS, namely (i) production of autoantibodies, (ii) antigen presentation, (iii) production of proinflammatory cytokines (bystander activation), and (iv) EBV involvement. In the second part of the review, we summarize medications that have targeted B cells in patients with MS and their current position in the therapeutic armamentarium based on clinical trials and real-world data. Covered therapeutic strategies include the targeting of surface molecules such as CD20 (rituximab, ocrelizumab, ofatumumab, ublituximab) and CD19 (inebilizumab), and molecules necessary for B-cell activation such as B cell activating factor (BAFF) (belimumab) and Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) (evobrutinib). We finally discuss the use of B-cell-targeted therapeutics in pregnancy.
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Giglhuber K, Berthele A. Adverse Events in NMOSD Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084154. [PMID: 35456972 PMCID: PMC9029040 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are rare neurologic autoimmune diseases that have a poor prognosis if left untreated. For many years, generic oral immunosuppressants and repurposed monoclonal antibodies that target the interleukin-6 pathway or B cells were the mainstays of drug treatment. Recently, these drug treatments have been complemented by new biologics developed and approved specifically for NMOSD. In principle, all of these drugs are effective, but treatment recommendations that take this into account are still pending. Instead, the choice of a drug may depend on other criteria such as drug safety or tolerability. In this review, we summarise current knowledge on the adverse effects of azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, rituximab, tocilizumab, eculizumab, satralizumab, and inebilizumab in NMOSD. Infections, cytopenias, and infusion-related reactions are most common, but the data are as heterogeneous as the manifestations are diverse. Nevertheless, knowledge of safety issues may facilitate treatment choices for individual patients.
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Gitman V, Stavropoulos A, Saenz V, Pasquarelli N, Zecevic D, Devonshire V. Pregnancy Outcomes of Women with Multiple Sclerosis Treated with Ocrelizumab in Canada: A Descriptive Analysis of Real-World Data. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 62:103792. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.103792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Pregnancy, Fetal, and Infant Outcomes Following Maternal Exposure to Glatiramer Acetate During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding. Drug Saf 2022; 45:345-357. [PMID: 35297004 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-022-01168-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Published data support the safety of glatiramer acetate in patients with multiple sclerosis who are pregnant or breastfeeding, but long-term data are limited. OBJECTIVE We aimed to assess pregnancy, fetal, and infant outcomes following maternal exposure to glatiramer acetate. METHODS In-utero glatiramer acetate-exposed postmarketing pregnancy reports from 2019 to 2021 were extracted from Teva's pharmacovigilance database. Pregnancy data acquired prior to knowledge of pregnancy outcome or detection of congenital malformation (prospective reports) were used to estimate pregnancy and infant outcome rates for glatiramer acetate 20- and 40-mg/mL exposure. A subgroup of cases completed follow-up questionnaires and were analyzed separately. RESULTS Prospective cases with 702 fetuses had known outcomes with 647 (92.2%) live births, 47 (6.7%) spontaneous abortions, 4 (0.6%) induced abortions, 2 (0.3%) ectopic pregnancies, and 2 (0.3%) fetal deaths. Rates of major congenital malformation (1.1%), preterm births (7.2%), and low/very low birth weight (4.8%), and parameters of growth were within background rates. No infant developmental delay was reported. Overall, pregnancy and infant outcomes were similar across glatiramer acetate doses. CONCLUSIONS Maternal exposure to glatiramer acetate does not appear to be related to adverse pregnancy, fetal, or infant outcomes. These data further support the safety of both glatiramer acetate 20-mg/mL and 40-mg/mL treatments during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
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Chey SY, Kermode AG. Pregnancy outcome following exposure to ocrelizumab in multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2022; 8:20552173221085737. [PMID: 35284087 PMCID: PMC8905230 DOI: 10.1177/20552173221085737] [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: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ocrelizumab is a monoclonal antibody targeting CD20-expressing B cells used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Currently, there is limited safety data in pregnancy. Objectives To report the pregnancy outcome following exposure to ocrelizumab in MS. Methods We retrospectively identified 14 pregnancies of 12 MS patients who had been exposed to ocrelizumab within 6 months prior to conception or during pregnancy from a specialty clinic in Western Australia. Results 13 of 14 pregnancies resulted in live births. One pregnancy was electively terminated following detection of a chromosomal defect. One pregnancy was complicated with placental insufficiency and the infant developed hyaline membrane disease which was complicated by sepsis. There were no observed major congenital anomalies, preterm births, stillbirths or low birthweight. We did not observe any serious maternal infections. All patients were relapse-free despite a mean ocrelizumab-free interval of 65.1 weeks. Conclusions We did not identify any major safety signals among the patients who received ocrelizumab prior to conception or during the first trimester of pregnancy. Our patients appeared to have a stable disease course despite a prolonged period of treatment interruption during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin Yee Chey
- Department of Neurology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Western Australia
| | - Allan G. Kermode
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Sciences, QE II Medical Centre, Perth, Australia
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Deng S, Lei Q, Lu W. Pregnancy-Related Attack in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder With AQP4-IgG: A Single-Center Study and Meta-Analysis. Front Immunol 2022; 12:800666. [PMID: 35069584 PMCID: PMC8767555 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.800666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to investigate the demographic characteristic of pregnancy-related attacks (PRAs) in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). In addition, we investigated the predictors of PRAs as well as the effect of immunosuppressive (IS) therapy in patients with pregnancy-related NMOSD. Method We retrospectively analyzed data on clinical and diagnostic characteristics, therapeutic management, and pregnancy outcomes for PRAs in AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD patients admitted to the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University. Moreover, we searched the literature (without any temporal restriction) to identify all such similar cohorts and performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of IS therapy on NMOSD patients with PRAs. Result We collected clinical data on 117 women with AQP4 antibody-positive NMOSD; we ultimately included 33 patients (34 pregnancies). Ten patients were relapse-free during pregnancy, and 23 (69.7%) had PRA; attacks were most common during the first trimester of the postpartum period. Maintenance of IS treatment during pregnancy was found to greatly reduce PRAs in patients with NMOSD. PRAs were associated with a higher neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) at relapse during pregnancy and shorter time interval between the last relapse and conception. The meta-analysis suggested that maintenance of IS treatment during pregnancy can significantly reduce the RR of NMOSD (95%CI=0.35-0.62; z=5.18, p<0.0001) and had no adverse effect on the miscarriage rate. However, the unhealthy newborn occurrence among those receiving IS treatment was 3.73 times higher than that of those not receiving treatment during pregnancy (95%CI=1.40–9.91; z=2.64, p=0.008). Conclusion Our study results demonstrates that pregnancy can induce the onset or relapse of attacks in NMOSD patients. The increased NLR value and disease activity may be a predictor for PRAs in patients with NMOSD. Moreover, administration of IS treatment during pregnancy can reduce the relapse rate. However, the dosage of drugs and risks of adverse effects to the fetus need to be considered. Future prospective studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm and extend our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuwen Deng
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiang Lei
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Tur C, Dubessy AL, Otero-Romero S, Amato MP, Derfuss T, Di Pauli F, Iacobaeus E, Mycko M, Abboud H, Achiron A, Bellinvia A, Boyko A, Casanova JL, Clifford D, Dobson R, Farez MF, Filippi M, Fitzgerald KC, Fonderico M, Gouider R, Hacohen Y, Hellwig K, Hemmer B, Kappos L, Ladeira F, Lebrun-Frénay C, Louapre C, Magyari M, Mehling M, Oreja-Guevara C, Pandit L, Papeix C, Piehl F, Portaccio E, Ruiz-Camps I, Selmaj K, Simpson-Yap S, Siva A, Sorensen PS, Sormani MP, Trojano M, Vaknin-Dembinsky A, Vukusic S, Weinshenker B, Wiendl H, Winkelmann A, Zuluaga Rodas MI, Tintoré M, Stankoff B. The risk of infections for multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder disease-modifying treatments: Eighth European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis Focused Workshop Review. April 2021. Mult Scler 2022; 28:1424-1456. [PMID: 35196927 DOI: 10.1177/13524585211069068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Over the recent years, the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) has evolved very rapidly and a large number of disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) are now available. However, most DMTs are associated with adverse events, the most frequent of which being infections. Consideration of all DMT-associated risks facilitates development of risk mitigation strategies. An international focused workshop with expert-led discussions was sponsored by the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) and was held in April 2021 to review our current knowledge about the risk of infections associated with the use of DMTs for people with MS and NMOSD and corresponding risk mitigation strategies. The workshop addressed DMT-associated infections in specific populations, such as children and pregnant women with MS, or people with MS who have other comorbidities or live in regions with an exceptionally high infection burden. Finally, we reviewed the topic of DMT-associated infectious risks in the context of the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Herein, we summarize available evidence and identify gaps in knowledge which justify further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Tur
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anne-Laure Dubessy
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, UMR7225, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM), Paris, France/ Department of Neurology, Saint Antoine Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Susana Otero-Romero
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Pia Amato
- Department of NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Florence, Italy/IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Florence, Italy
| | - Tobias Derfuss
- Neurology Clinic and Policlinic, Departments of Medicine, Clinical Research and Biomedicine and Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Franziska Di Pauli
- Clinical Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ellen Iacobaeus
- Division of Neurology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marcin Mycko
- Department of Neurology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Hesham Abboud
- Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Program, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Anat Achiron
- Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Angelo Bellinvia
- Department of NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alexey Boyko
- Department of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Medical Genetics, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia/Institute of Clinical Neurology and Department of Neuroimmunology, Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies, Moscow, Russia
| | - Jean-Laurent Casanova
- St. Giles Laboratory of Human Genetics of Infectious Diseases, Rockefeller Branch, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - David Clifford
- Department of Neurology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ruth Dobson
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK/Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Mauricio F Farez
- Center for Research on Neuroimmunological Diseases, FLENI, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neurology Unit, Neurorehabilitation Unit and Neurophysiology Service, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy/Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Kathryn C Fitzgerald
- Department of Neurology and Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mattia Fonderico
- Department of NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Riadh Gouider
- Department of Neurology, Razi Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Yael Hacohen
- Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hemmer
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany; Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Ludwig Kappos
- Neurologic Clinic and Policlinic, Departments of Medicine, Clinical Research, Biomedicine, and Biomedical Engineering, University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Filipa Ladeira
- Neurology Department, Hospital Santo António dos Capuchos, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Christine Lebrun-Frénay
- CRCSEP Côte d'Azur, CHU de Nice Pasteur 2, UR2CA-URRIS, Université Nice Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Céline Louapre
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, UMR7225, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM), Paris, France/Sorbonne University, Paris Brain Institute-ICM, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Inserm, CNRS, Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, CIC Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - Melinda Magyari
- Department of Neurology, Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Matthias Mehling
- Neurology Clinic and Policlinic, Departments of Medicine, Clinical Research and Biomedicine and Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Celia Oreja-Guevara
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Idissc, Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lekha Pandit
- Center for Advanced Neurological Research, KS Hegde Medical Academy, Nitte (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Caroline Papeix
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, UMR7225, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM), Paris, France/Sorbonne University, Paris Brain Institute-ICM, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Inserm, CNRS, Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, CIC Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - Fredrik Piehl
- Division of Neurology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emilio Portaccio
- Department of NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Isabel Ruiz-Camps
- Servicio de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Krzysztof Selmaj
- Collegium Medicum, Department of Neurology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland/Center of Neurology, Lodz, Poland
| | - Steve Simpson-Yap
- Clinical Outcomes Research Unit, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Aksel Siva
- Department of Neurology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Per Soelberg Sorensen
- Department of Neurology, Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Pia Sormani
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa and IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Trojano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro," Bari, Italy
| | - Adi Vaknin-Dembinsky
- Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Department of Neurology, The Agnes-Ginges Center for Neurogenetics Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Sandra Vukusic
- Service de neurologie, sclérose en plaques, pathologies de la myéline et neuro-inflammation, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France/Centre des Neurosciences de Lyon, Observatoire Français de la Sclérose en Plaques, INSERM 1028 et CNRS UMR5292, Lyon, France/Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Faculté de médecine Lyon Est, Lyon, France
| | | | - Heinz Wiendl
- Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology, University of Muenster, Münster, Germany
| | | | | | - Mar Tintoré
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Catalonia (Cemcat), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bruno Stankoff
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, UMR7225, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM), Paris, France/ Department of Neurology, Saint Antoine Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France
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Merz WM, Fischer-Betz R, Hellwig K, Lamprecht G, Gembruch U. Pregnancy and Autoimmune Disease: Diseases of the Nervous System, Connective Tissue, and the Bowel. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 119:145-156. [PMID: 34874264 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.m2021.0353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancies in women with chronic disease are on the rise. This pertains to autoimmune diseases in particular since these tend to affect women of childbearing age. The interaction between pregnancy and autoimmune disease may increase the risk of maternal, fetal, and obstetric complications; additional care may be required. METHODS This review is based on a selective literature search in PubMed (2015-2020). RESULTS In women with autoimmune diseases, the course of pregnancy is highly variable. Some autoimmune diseases tend to improve during pregnancy and do not to result in any serious obstetric complications. Others may worsen during pregnancy, with deterioration of the maternal condition as well as obstetric and perinatal complications. In systemic lupus erythematosus and myasthenia gravis, placental transfer of specific autoantibodies may cause fetal or neonatal disease. CONCLUSION The care of pregnant women with chronic diseases requires collaboration between specialists of the pertinent levels of care. A stable course of disease before conception, close interdisciplinary care, and pregnancy-compatible medication contribute to a reduction in maternal and perinatal complications.
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Galati A, McElrath T, Bove R. Use of B-Cell–Depleting Therapy in Women of Childbearing Potential With Multiple Sclerosis and Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder. Neurol Clin Pract 2022; 12:154-163. [PMID: 35733945 PMCID: PMC9208398 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000001147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review There is considerable heterogeneity in the use of B-cell depletion in women of childbearing age, likely driven at least in part by the discrepancy between the product labels and what is known about the physiology of IgG1, including breastmilk and placental transfer. Recent Findings We provide practical considerations on the use of this medication class in women of childbearing potential. We discuss prepregnancy planning including vaccinations, safety of B-cell depletion during pregnancy, and postpartum considerations including breastfeeding. Summary B-cell–depleting monoclonal antibodies have shown to be effective for prepregnancy and postpartum prevention of inflammatory activity in MS and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. B-cell–depleting therapies are large IgG1 monoclonal antibodies, which have minimal transfer across the placenta and into breastmilk. Consideration of risks and benefits of these therapies should be considered in counseling women planning pregnancy and postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Galati
- Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology (A.G., R.B.), Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, UCSF Weill Institute for the Neurosciences, San Francisco, CA; and Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Thomas McElrath
- Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology (A.G., R.B.), Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, UCSF Weill Institute for the Neurosciences, San Francisco, CA; and Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Riley Bove
- Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology (A.G., R.B.), Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, UCSF Weill Institute for the Neurosciences, San Francisco, CA; and Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Hellwig K, Tokic M, Thiel S, Esters N, Spicher C, Timmesfeld N, Ciplea AI, Gold R, Langer-Gould A. Multiple Sclerosis Disease Activity and Disability Following Discontinuation of Natalizumab for Pregnancy. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2144750. [PMID: 35072719 PMCID: PMC8787598 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.44750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The magnitude of risk of pregnancy-related multiple sclerosis relapses, particularly severe relapses, following natalizumab cessation is unclear, as is whether this risk is reduced by pregnancy or other modifiable factors. OBJECTIVE To determine the association of early natalizumab withdrawal before or during pregnancy with risk of severe relapses and relapse-related disability. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This prospective cohort study used data from the German Multiple Sclerosis and Pregnancy Registry, which enrolled participants between November 2006 and February 2018. Data were collected through structured telephone-administered questionnaires and review of neurologists' notes. Registry patients who stopped natalizumab treatment within the 2 years before or in the first trimester of pregnancy were included in this analysis. Data were analyzed between January and November 2021. EXPOSURES Cessation of natalizumab before pregnancy or until the first trimester. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Severe and significant relapse-related disability was defined as at least a 2.0-point increase on the expanded disability status scale or new or worsening relapse-related ambulatory impairment. Multivariable models accounting for measures of disease severity and repeated events were used. RESULTS The cohort comprised 255 women with 274 pregnancies (mean [SD] age at pregnancy onset, 31.25 [4.27] years) who stopped natalizumab before pregnancy (n = 85; median time before last menstrual period, 14.29 weeks [IQR, 3.14-42.43 weeks]) or in the first trimester (n = 189). During pregnancy and the postpartum year, relapses were reported in 183 pregnancies (66.78%), severe relapses in 44 pregnancies (16.05%), and potentially life-threatening relapses in 3 pregnancies (1.10%). One year post partum, significant relapse-related disability was accrued in 29 pregnancies (10.58%). Relapses during pregnancy (n = 109; 39.78%) and in the postpartum period (n = 135; 49.27%) were common. Pregnancy (as a time-dependent covariate) was not associated with a reduced relapse risk (adjusted HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.64-1.27). Neither exclusive breastfeeding (adjusted HR, 1.34; 95% CI, 0.86-2.10) nor restarting natalizumab within 4 weeks post partum (adjusted HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.48-2.36) were associated with a reduced risk of early postpartum relapses 6 months after delivery. However, the relapse rate ratio during 12 months post partum was lower (0.49; 95% CI, 0.28-0.86) when natalizumab was restarted in the first 4 weeks after birth. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This cohort study's finding suggest that 10% of women may retain clinically meaningful disability from pregnancy-related natalizumab cessation relapses 1 year post partum. This information should be shared with women on natalizumab who desire pregnancy to weigh the high risk of pregnancy-related relapses and disability to the partly uncertain risks of continuing natalizumab throughout pregnancy or switching to depleting agents before conception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Hellwig
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital–Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Marianne Tokic
- Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sandra Thiel
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital–Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Nina Esters
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital–Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Charlotte Spicher
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital–Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Nina Timmesfeld
- Department of Medical Informatics, Biometry and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Andrea I. Ciplea
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital–Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ralf Gold
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef-Hospital–Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Annette Langer-Gould
- Department of Neurology, Los Angeles Medical Center, Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Los Angeles, California
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Effect of Ofatumumab on Pregnancy, Parturition and Lactation in Cynomolgus Monkeys. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 108:28-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Thiel S, Ciplea AI, Gold R, Hellwig K. The German Multiple Sclerosis and Pregnancy Registry: rationale, objective, design, and first results. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2021; 14:17562864211054956. [PMID: 34840606 PMCID: PMC8613898 DOI: 10.1177/17562864211054956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) predominantly affect women of reproductive age. During the last few decades many disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have been approved. It is therefore important to provide epidemiological structures for the collection of safety information on exposed pregnancies. Data on disease activity after withdrawal of DMTs are in high demand especially as severe relapses have been described after ceasing highly effective DMTs. Although breastfeeding is recommended, it is still unclear if the early reintroduction, especially of highly effective DMTs, has a beneficial effect on postpartum relapse risk or a combination of both, however safety data are lacking. Methods: The German MS and Pregnancy Registry (DMSKW) is a nationwide, observational, cohort study of pregnant women with MS or NMOSD, founded in 2006. As the study procedure has undergone important adaptation in recent years, described here is the updated methodology including data source and acquisition as well as variables collected within the DMSKW. Results: As of December 2020, the DMSKW database comprises 2579 pregnancies, 2568 with MS and 11 with NMOSD. Women are enrolled at a median gestational week of 11 (range: 0.02–42.1), have a median postpartum follow up of 1.2 years (range: 0–9.2) with 76% of all pregnancies being exposed to a DMT, mostly in the first trimester. Spontaneous abortion and preterm birth occurred in 7% and 10%, respectively; 19% of all women suffered from at least one relapse during pregnancy, with a minimum of 6% during the third trimester of pregnancy. Conclusion: The DMSKW is a valuable structure in providing safety data on drug exposure during pregnancy and lactation in combination with information on disease activity up to 6 years postpartum. This article will be the reference for describing the methods of future publications from the DMSKW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Thiel
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital - Katholisches Klinikum Bochum GmbH, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Andrea I Ciplea
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital - Katholisches Klinikum Bochum GmbH, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ralf Gold
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital - Katholisches Klinikum Bochum GmbH, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Department of Neurology, St. Josef Hospital - Katholisches Klinikum Bochum GmbH, Ruhr University Bochum, Gudrunstrasse 56, 44791 Bochum, Germany
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Gabelić T, Barun B, Adamec I, Krbot Skorić M, Habek M. Product review on MAbs (alemtuzumab and ocrelizumab) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2021; 17:4345-4362. [PMID: 34668842 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2021.1969850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, the management of active relapsing remitting MS was based on the, so-called, maintenance therapy, which is characterized by continuous treatment with particular disease modifying therapy (DMT), and a return of disease activity when the drug is discontinued. Another approach is characterized by a short treatment course of a DMT, which is hypothesized to act as an immune reconstitution therapy (IRT), with the potential to protect against relapses for years after a short course of treatment. Introduction of monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of MS has revolutionized MS treatment in the last decade. However, given the increasingly complex landscape of DMTs approved for MS, people with MS and neurologists are constantly faced with the question which DMT is the most appropriate for the given patient, a question we still do not have an answer to. In this product review, we will discuss the first DMT that acts as IRT, an anti-CD52 monoclonal antibody alemtuzumab and an anti CD20 monoclonal antibody, ocrelizumab that has the potential to act as an IRT, but is administered continuously. Special emphasis will be given on safety in the context of COVID-19 pandemics and vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Gabelić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Barbara Barun
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivan Adamec
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Magdalena Krbot Skorić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mario Habek
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Brancati S, Gozzo L, Longo L, Vitale DC, Drago F. Rituximab in Multiple Sclerosis: Are We Ready for Regulatory Approval? Front Immunol 2021; 12:661882. [PMID: 34295328 PMCID: PMC8290177 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.661882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the availability of a lot of effective disease-modifying drugs, multiple sclerosis (MS) (in particular the progressive forms) still represents an important unmet medical need, because of issues in terms of effectiveness, duration of response, safety, and patient compliance. An increasing body of evidence from randomized clinical trials and real-world data suggest that rituximab is a highly effective alternative in both relapsing and progressive MS, with a low discontinuation rate, related to a good benefit/risk profile, and a good compliance. To date, the use of rituximab in patients with multiple sclerosis is not in accordance with the authorized product information (off-label use). However, the use of this medicine is widespread in several countries, and in some cases, it is the most commonly used disease-modifying drug for MS subtypes. This use could be officially recognized by national regulatory authorities, according to specific procedures, to ensure equal access for patients to a safe and effective option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Brancati
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit/Regional Pharmacovigilance Centre, University Hospital of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Lucia Gozzo
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit/Regional Pharmacovigilance Centre, University Hospital of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Laura Longo
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit/Regional Pharmacovigilance Centre, University Hospital of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Daniela Cristina Vitale
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit/Regional Pharmacovigilance Centre, University Hospital of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit/Regional Pharmacovigilance Centre, University Hospital of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Centre for Research and Consultancy in HTA and Drug Regulatory Affairs (CERD), University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Simone IL, Tortorella C, Ghirelli A. Influence of Pregnancy in Multiple Sclerosis and Impact of Disease-Modifying Therapies. Front Neurol 2021; 12:697974. [PMID: 34276545 PMCID: PMC8280312 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.697974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose of this Review: This article is a systematic review on the influence pregnancy has on multiple sclerosis and the resulting impact of disease-modifying therapies. Findings: Multiple sclerosis predominantly affects young women with a clinical onset most often during the child-bearing age. The impact of multiple sclerosis and disease-modifying therapies on fertility, pregnancy, fetal outcome, and breastfeeding is a pivotal topic when it comes to clinical practice. The introduction of disease-modifying therapies has changed not only the natural history of the disease but also the perspective of pregnancy in women with multiple sclerosis. Family planning requires careful consideration, especially because many disease-modifying drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy. In this article, we review current evidence collected from published literature and drug-specific pregnancy registers on the use of disease-modifying therapies. Additionally, we discuss safety profiles for each drug and correlate them to both risk for the exposed fetus and risk for the mothers interrupting treatments when seeking pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Laura Simone
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Carla Tortorella
- Department of Neurosciences, San Camillo-Forlanini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Alma Ghirelli
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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Yeh WZ, Widyastuti PA, Van der Walt A, Stankovich J, Havrdova E, Horakova D, Vodehnalova K, Ozakbas S, Eichau S, Duquette P, Kalincik T, Patti F, Boz C, Terzi M, Yamout BI, Lechner-Scott J, Sola P, Skibina OG, Barnett M, Onofrj M, Sá MJ, McCombe PA, Grammond P, Ampapa R, Grand'Maison F, Bergamaschi R, Spitaleri DLA, Van Pesch V, Cartechini E, Hodgkinson S, Soysal A, Saiz A, Gresle M, Uher T, Maimone D, Turkoglu R, Hupperts RM, Amato MP, Granella F, Oreja-Guevara C, Altintas A, Macdonell RA, Castillo-Trivino T, Butzkueven H, Alroughani R, Jokubaitis VG. Natalizumab, Fingolimod and Dimethyl Fumarate Use and Pregnancy-Related Relapse and Disability in Women With Multiple Sclerosis. Neurology 2021; 96:e2989-e3002. [PMID: 33879599 PMCID: PMC8253565 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000012084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate pregnancy-related disease activity in a contemporary multiple sclerosis (MS) cohort. METHODS Using data from the MSBase Registry, we included pregnancies conceived after 31 Dec 2010 from women with relapsing-remitting MS or clinically isolated syndrome. Predictors of intrapartum relapse, and postpartum relapse and disability progression were determined by clustered logistic regression or Cox regression analyses. RESULTS We included 1998 pregnancies from 1619 women with MS. Preconception annualized relapse rate (ARR) was 0.29 (95% CI 0.27-0.32), fell to 0.19 (0.14-0.24) in third trimester, and increased to 0.59 (0.51-0.67) in early postpartum. Among women who used fingolimod or natalizumab, ARR before pregnancy was 0.37 (0.28-0.49) and 0.29 (0.22-0.37), respectively, and increased during pregnancy. Intrapartum ARR decreased with preconception dimethyl fumarate use. ARR spiked after delivery across all DMT groups. Natalizumab continuation into pregnancy reduced the odds of relapse during pregnancy (OR 0.76 per month [0.60-0.95], p=0.017). DMT re-initiation with natalizumab protected against postpartum relapse (HR 0.11 [0.04-0.32], p<0.0001). Breastfeeding women were less likely to relapse (HR 0.61 [0.41-0.91], p=0.016). 5.6% of pregnancies were followed by confirmed disability progression, predicted by higher relapse activity in pregnancy and postpartum. CONCLUSION Intrapartum and postpartum relapse probabilities increased among women with MS after natalizumab or fingolimod cessation. In women considered to be at high relapse risk, use of natalizumab before pregnancy and continued up to 34 weeks gestation, with early re-initiation after delivery is an effective option to minimize relapse risks. Strategies of DMT use have to be balanced against potential fetal/neonatal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhen Yeh
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Putu Ayu Widyastuti
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anneke Van der Walt
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jim Stankovich
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eva Havrdova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dana Horakova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Karolina Vodehnalova
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Sara Eichau
- Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Spain
| | | | - Tomas Kalincik
- CORe, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne MS Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Australia
| | - Francesco Patti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies
- GF Ingrassia, University of Catania - AOU Policlinico-San Marco, University of Catania
| | - Cavit Boz
- KTU Medical Faculty Farabi Hospital, Turkey
| | | | - Bassem I Yamout
- American University of Beirut, Faculty of Medicine, Nehme and Therese Multiple Sclerosis Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Patrizia Sola
- Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Olga G Skibina
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Maria José Sá
- Department of Neurology, São João Universitary Hospital Center, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pamela Ann McCombe
- St Andrews Place, Australia, & Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia
| | - Pierre Grammond
- Centre de réadaptation déficience physique Chaudière-Appalache, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Vincent Van Pesch
- Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | | | | | - Aysun Soysal
- Bakirkoy Education and Research Hospital for Psychiatric and Neurological Diseases, Turkey
| | - Albert Saiz
- Service of Neurology, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomediques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS)
- Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Melissa Gresle
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tomas Uher
- Department of Neurology and Center of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Davide Maimone
- Centro Sclerosi Multipla, UOC Neurologia, ARNAS Garibaldi, Catania, Italy
| | - Recai Turkoglu
- Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Turkey
| | | | - Maria Pia Amato
- Department NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Celia Oreja-Guevara
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM)
- IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ayse Altintas
- Department of Neurology, Koc University School of Medicine, Turkey
| | | | | | - Helmut Butzkueven
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Box Hill Hospital, Australia
| | | | - Vilija G Jokubaitis
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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