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De Bleecker JL, Remiche G, Alonso-Jiménez A, Van Parys V, Bissay V, Delstanche S, Claeys KG. Recommendations for the management of myasthenia gravis in Belgium. Acta Neurol Belg 2024; 124:1371-1383. [PMID: 38649556 PMCID: PMC11266451 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-024-02552-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
International guidelines on the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) have been published but are not tailored to the Belgian situation. This publication presents recommendations from a group of Belgian MG experts for the practical management of MG in Belgium. It includes recommendations for treatment of adult patients with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) or ocular myasthenia gravis (oMG). Depending on the MG-related antibody a treatment sequence is suggested with therapies that can be added on if the treatment goal is not achieved. Selection of treatments was based on the level of evidence of efficacy, registration and reimbursement status in Belgium, common daily practice and the personal views and experiences of the authors. The paper reflects the situation in February 2024. In addition to the treatment considerations, other relevant aspects in the management of MG are addressed, including comorbidities, drugs aggravating disease symptoms, pregnancy, and vaccination. As many new treatments might potentially come to market, a realistic future perspective on the impact of these treatments on clinical practice is given. In conclusion, these recommendations intend to be a guide for neurologists treating patients with MG in Belgium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan L De Bleecker
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ghent and AZ Sint-Lucas, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Gauthier Remiche
- Centre de Référence Neuromusculaire, Department of Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles (HUB)-Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alicia Alonso-Jiménez
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Antwerp University Hospital, Translational Neurosciences, UAntwerpen, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Vinciane Van Parys
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Véronique Bissay
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, NEUR Research Group and Department of Neurology, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Kristl G Claeys
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Muscle Diseases and Neuropathies, Department of Neurosciences, KULeuven, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium
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Cortés-Vicente E, Borsi AJ, Gary C, Noel WGJ, Lee JMS, Karmous W, Zhang Q, Gandhi KH, Batista AE, DeCourcy JJ, Barlow SG, Birija SL, Gibson GA. The impact of diagnosis delay on European patients with generalised myasthenia gravis. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2024. [PMID: 39090840 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.52122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to determine the mean duration of diagnosis delay for patients with myasthenia gravis from five European countries and explore the impact of >1 year diagnosis delay. METHODS Patients with myasthenia gravis (N = 387) from Europe (France/Germany/Italy/Spain/United Kingdom) and their physicians participated in the Adelphi Real World Myasthenia Gravis Disease Specific Programme™. Diagnosis delay (time from symptom onset to diagnosis) was calculated and characteristics described for patients experiencing >1 year and ≤1 year diagnosis delay. Denominators varied according to outcome as missing data were not imputed. RESULTS Mean (standard deviation) diagnosis delay was 363.1 (520.9) days, and 27.1% (105 out of 387) of patients experienced diagnosis delay >1 year. Among patients with >1 year and ≤1 year diagnosis delay, respectively, 69.2% (72 out of 104) and 17.4% [45 out of 259] had initially received a different diagnosis (physician-reported); 40.0% (42 out of 105) and 24.1% (68 out of 282) were Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America class III at the time of the survey (physician-reported); 72.4% (76 out of 105) and 61.3% (173 out of 282) had fatigue (subjective physician reporting from a pre-selected list of symptoms); 30.5% (32 out of 105) and 17.4% (49 out of 282) had anxiety and 21.9% (23 out of 105) and 13.1% (37 out of 282) had depression (both subjective physician reporting from a pre-selected list, Likert-style); and mean (standard deviation) MG-QoL-15r score was 14.4 (5.50) and 12.6 (7.84) (self-reported by N = 43 and N = 74 patients, respectively). INTERPRETATION More than a quarter of patients with myasthenia gravis experienced diagnosis delay of >1 year. These patients had a different clinical profile with regards to severity, symptoms, comorbidities and MG-QoL-15r score, compared with patients experiencing ≤1 year diagnosis delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cortés-Vicente
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Charlotte Gary
- EMEA Market Affairs, Janssen-Cilag, Issy-les-Moulineaux, France
| | - Wim G J Noel
- EMEA Market Affairs, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | | | - Wisam Karmous
- EMEA Market Access, Janssen-Cilag, Issy-les-Moulineaux, France
| | - Qiaoyi Zhang
- Global Market Access, Janssen Global Services, Titusville, New Jersey, USA
| | - Kavita H Gandhi
- Global Market Access, Janssen Global Services, Titusville, New Jersey, USA
| | - Alberto E Batista
- Global Market Access, Janssen Global Services, Titusville, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Sophie G Barlow
- Statistics and Data Analytics, Adelphi Real World, Bollington, UK
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Beland B, Perera T, Lee A, Greenfield J, Korngut L, Jewett G. No sex-based differences in odds of starting or time to treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis: A single center cohort study. Muscle Nerve 2024. [PMID: 39054840 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Females with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) report lower quality of life (QoL) and have more severe disease than males. Sex differences in disease characteristics exist, however whether there are sex differences in the treatment of gMG that may contribute to QoL disparities is unknown. Our objective is to determine whether there are sex differences in the treatment of gMG. METHODS We performed a single-center retrospective study of people diagnosed with gMG at the University of Calgary between 1997 and 2021. Primary outcome was proportion starting treatment and secondary outcome was time from diagnosis to treatment initiation. Treatments included pyridostigmine, prednisone, steroid sparing therapies (azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil [MMF], methotrexate [MTX], or tacrolimus), intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), plasmapheresis, rituximab, eculizumab, cyclosporine, stem cell transplantation, and thymectomy. Multivariable logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to examine treatment associations with sex, adjusted for time from onset to diagnosis, age at diagnosis, presence of thymoma, and antibody status. RESULTS A total of 179 people with gMG were included (41.9% female). Odds of starting treatment were not statistically associated with sex after adjustment for confounders and correction for multiple testing. Results of the secondary analysis using time to treatment initiation as the outcome were similar. DISCUSSION We found no sex differences in odds of starting treatment or time to treatment initiation that might explain previously observed sex-based differences in QoL. Future work should capture physician and patient treatment preferences that may influence disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Beland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Tefani Perera
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Angela Lee
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jamie Greenfield
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lawrence Korngut
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gordon Jewett
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Barnett-Tapia C, Katzberg HD. Cyclophosphamide for myasthenia gravis: a comeback? J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2024:jnnp-2024-333920. [PMID: 38964849 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2024-333920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hans D Katzberg
- Neurology, Toronto Genreal Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Zhang J, Huang J, Lan J, Li Q, Ke L, Jiang Q, Li Y, Zhang H, Zhong H, Yang P, Chen T, Song Y. Astragaloside IV protects against autoimmune myasthenia gravis in rats via regulation of mitophagy and apoptosis. Mol Med Rep 2024; 30:129. [PMID: 38785143 PMCID: PMC11140232 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2024.13253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Astragaloside IV (AS‑IV) has various pharmacological effects, including antioxidant and immunoregulatory properties, which can improve myasthenia gravis (MG) symptoms. However, the potential mechanism underlying the effects of AS‑IV on MG remains to be elucidated. The present study aimed to investigate whether AS‑IV has a therapeutic effect on MG and its potential mechanism of action. By subcutaneously immunizing rats with R97‑116 peptide, an experimental autoimmune (EA) MG rat model was established. AS‑IV (40 or 80 mg/kg/day) treatment was then applied for 28 days after modeling. The results demonstrated that AS‑IV significantly ameliorated the weight loss, Lennon score and pathological changes in the gastrocnemius muscle of EAMG rats compared with the model group. Additionally, the levels of acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR‑Ab) were significantly decreased, whereas mitochondrial function [ATPase and cytochrome c (Cyt‑C) oxidase activities] and ultrastructure were improved in the AS‑IV treated rats. Moreover, the mRNA and protein expression levels of phosphatase and tensin homolog‑induced putative kinase 1, Parkin, LC3II and Bcl‑2, key signaling molecules for mitophagy and apoptosis, were upregulated, whereas the mRNA and protein expression levels of p62, Cyt‑C, Bax, caspase 3 and caspase 9 were downregulated following AS‑IV intervention. In conclusion, AS‑IV may protect against EAMG in a rat model by modulating mitophagy and apoptosis. These findings indicated the potential mechanism underlying the effects of AS‑IV on MG and provided novel insights into treatment strategies for MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Zhang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Jiayan Huang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Jinlian Lan
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Qing Li
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Lingling Ke
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Qilong Jiang
- Department of Gastrosplenic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Yanwu Li
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Han Zhang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P.R. China
| | - Huiya Zhong
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Peidan Yang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Tongkai Chen
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
| | - Yafang Song
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
- Institute of Pi-Wei, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, P.R. China
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Meisel A, Saccà F, Spillane J, Vissing J. Expert consensus recommendations for improving and standardising the assessment of patients with generalised myasthenia gravis. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16280. [PMID: 38523419 PMCID: PMC11236001 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regular and consistent disease assessment could provide a clearer picture of burden in generalised myasthenia gravis (gMG) and improve patient care; however, the use of assessment tools in practice lacks standardisation. This modified Delphi approach was taken to review current evidence on assessment tool use in gMG and develop expert-derived consensus recommendations for good practice. METHODS A European expert panel of 15 experienced gMG neurologists contributed to development of this consensus, four of whom formed a lead Sub-committee. The PICO (Population, Intervention, Control, Outcomes) framework was used to define six clinical questions on gMG assessment tools, a systematic literature review was conducted, and evidence-based statements were developed. According to a modified Delphi voting process, consensus was reached when ≥70% of the experts rated agreement with a statement as ≥8 on a scale of 1-10. RESULTS Eighteen expert- and evidence-based consensus statements based on six themes were developed. Key recommendations include: consistent use of the Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living score (MG-ADL) across clinical settings, followed by a simple question (e.g., Patient Acceptable Symptom State [PASS]) or scale to determine patient satisfaction in clinical practice; use of a Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis [QMG] or quality of life [QoL] assessment when the MG-ADL indicates disease worsening; and consideration of symptom state to determine the timing and frequency of recommended assessments. Expert panel consensus was reached on all 18 statements after two voting rounds. CONCLUSIONS This process provided evidence- and expert consensus-based recommendations for the use of objective and subjective assessment tools across gMG research and care to improve management and outcomes for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Meisel
- Department of Neurology with Experimental NeurologyNeuroscience Clinical Research CenterCharité Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Francesco Saccà
- GENESIS Department, Federico II University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | - Jennifer Spillane
- National Hospital for Neurology and NeurosurgeryUCLH NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - John Vissing
- Copenhagen Neuromuscular CenterCopenhagen University Hospital RigshospitaletCopenhagenDenmark
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Saccà F, Salort‐Campana E, Jacob S, Cortés‐Vicente E, Schneider‐Gold C. Refocusing generalized myasthenia gravis: Patient burden, disease profiles, and the role of evolving therapy. Eur J Neurol 2024; 31:e16180. [PMID: 38117543 PMCID: PMC11236062 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16180] [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: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) continues to present significant challenges for clinical management due to an unpredictable disease course, frequent disease fluctuations, and varying response to therapy. The recent availability of new pharmacologic therapies presents a valuable opportunity to reevaluate how this disease is classified, assessed, and managed and identify new ways to improve the clinical care of patients with gMG. METHODS Narrative review was made of publications identified via searches of PubMed and selected congresses (January 2000-September 2022). RESULTS New consensus definitions are required to ensure consistency, to better characterize patients, and to identify patients who will benefit from specific drugs and earlier use of these agents. There is a need for more frequent, standardized patient assessment to identify the cause of motor function deficits, provide a clearer picture of the disease burden and its impact on daily living and quality of life (QoL), and better support treatment decision-making. Novel approaches that target different components of the immune system will play a role in more precise treatment of patients with gMG, alongside the development of new algorithms to guide individualized patient management. CONCLUSIONS gMG has a physical, mental, and social impact, resulting in a considerable burden of disease and substantially decreased QoL, despite standard treatments. The availability of novel, targeted treatments that influence key pathological mediators of gMG, together with new biomarkers, offers the potential to optimize patient management and ultimately enables a greater number of patients to achieve minimal manifestation status and a reduced burden of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Saccà
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and OdontostomatologyFederico II UniversityNaplesItaly
| | - Emmanuelle Salort‐Campana
- Reference Center of Neuromuscular Disorders and ALS, Timone University HospitalAssistance Publique–Hopitaux de MarseilleMarseilleFrance
| | - Saiju Jacob
- Institute of Immunology and ImmunotherapyUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | - Elena Cortés‐Vicente
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Department of NeurologyHospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and Biomedical Research Institute Sant PauBarcelonaSpain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades RarasInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
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Ma C, Liu D, Wang B, Yang Y, Zhu R. Advancements and prospects of novel biologicals for myasthenia gravis: toward personalized treatment based on autoantibody specificities. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1370411. [PMID: 38881870 PMCID: PMC11177092 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1370411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an antibody-mediated autoimmune disease with a prevalence of 150-250 cases per million individuals. Autoantibodies include long-lived antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR), mainly of the IgG1 subclass, and IgG4, produced almost exclusively by short-lived plasmablasts, which are prevalent in muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) myasthenia gravis. Numerous investigations have demonstrated that MG patients receiving conventional medication today still do not possess satisfactory symptom control, indicating a substantial disease burden. Subsequently, based on the type of the autoantibody and the pathogenesis, we synthesized the published material to date and reached a conclusion regarding the literature related to personalized targeted therapy for MG. Novel agents for AChR MG have shown their efficacy in clinical research, such as complement inhibitors, FcRn receptor antagonists, and B-cell activating factor (BAFF) inhibitors. Rituximab, a representative drug of anti-CD20 therapy, has demonstrated benefits in treatment of MuSK MG patients. Due to the existence of low-affinity antibodies or unidentified antibodies that are inaccessible by existing methods, the treatment for seronegative MG remains complicated; thus, special testing and therapy considerations are necessary. It may be advantageous to initiate the application of novel biologicals at an early stage of the disease. Currently, therapies can also be combined and individualized according to different types of antibodies. With such a wide range of drugs, how to tailor treatment strategies to patients with various conditions and find the most suitable solution for each MG profile are our necessary and urgent aims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Ma
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Benqiao Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yingying Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ruixia Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Howard JF, Vu T, Mantegazza R, Kushlaf H, Suzuki S, Wiendl H, Beasley KN, Liao S, Meisel A. Efficacy of ravulizumab in patients with generalized myasthenia gravis by time from diagnosis: A post hoc subgroup analysis of the CHAMPION MG study. Muscle Nerve 2024; 69:556-565. [PMID: 38380691 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS The CHAMPION MG study demonstrated that ravulizumab significantly improved Myasthenia Gravis-Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL) and Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis (QMG) total scores versus placebo in adults with acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive generalized myasthenia gravis (AChR+ gMG). This post hoc analysis aimed to assess these outcomes by time from MG diagnosis. METHODS Changes from baseline to week 26 in MG-ADL and QMG total scores were analyzed by time from MG diagnosis to study entry (≤2 vs. >2 years). Within each subgroup, least-squares (LS) mean changes for ravulizumab and placebo were compared using mixed models for repeated measures. RESULTS In ravulizumab-treated patients, differences in LS mean (standard error of the mean) changes from baseline to week 26 were not statistically significant in the ≤2-years subgroup versus the >2-years subgroup for MG-ADL (-4.3 [0.70] vs. -2.9 [0.37]; p = .0511) or QMG (-4.3 [0.94] vs. -2.5 [0.50]; p = .0822) scores. No clear trends were observed in the placebo group. LS mean changes from baseline were significantly greater for ravulizumab versus placebo in both the ≤2 and >2 years from diagnosis subgroups for MG-ADL and QMG scores (all p < .05). The difference in treatment effect between the ≤2-years and >2-years subgroups was not statistically significant. No clinically meaningful between-subgroup differences in treatment-emergent adverse events were observed in ravulizumab-treated patients. DISCUSSION Ravulizumab treatment improved clinical outcomes for patients with AChR+ gMG regardless of time from diagnosis. A numerical trend was observed favoring greater treatment effect with earlier versus later treatment after diagnosis. Further studies are required for confirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
- James F Howard
- The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Tuan Vu
- University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Serena Liao
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Howard JF, Bresch S, Farmakidis C, Freimer M, Genge A, Hewamadduma C, Hinton J, Hussain Y, Juntas-Morales R, Kaminski HJ, Maniaol A, Mantegazza R, Masuda M, Nowak RJ, Sivakumar K, Śmiłowski M, Utsugisawa K, Vu T, Weiss MD, Zajda M, Bloemers J, Boroojerdi B, Brock M, de la Borderie G, Duda PW, Vanderkelen M, Leite MI. Long-term safety and efficacy of zilucoplan in patients with generalized myasthenia gravis: interim analysis of the RAISE-XT open-label extension study. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2024; 17:17562864241243186. [PMID: 38638673 PMCID: PMC11025429 DOI: 10.1177/17562864241243186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) is a chronic, unpredictable disease associated with high treatment and disease burdens, with a need for more effective and well-tolerated treatments. Objectives To evaluate the long-term safety, tolerability, and efficacy of zilucoplan in a mild-to-severe, acetylcholine receptor autoantibody-positive (AChR+) gMG population. Design Ongoing, multicenter, phase III open-label extension (OLE) study. Methods Eligible patients had completed a qualifying randomized, placebo-controlled phase II or phase III zilucoplan study and received daily, self-administered subcutaneous 0.3 mg/kg zilucoplan. The primary endpoint was incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). Secondary efficacy endpoints included change from baseline in Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL) score. Results In total, 200 patients enrolled. At the cut-off date (8 September 2022), median (range) exposure to zilucoplan in RAISE-XT was 1.2 (0.11-4.45) years. Mean age at OLE baseline was 53.3 years. A total of 188 (94%) patients experienced a TEAE, with the most common being MG worsening (n = 52, 26%) and COVID-19 (n = 49, 25%). In patients who received zilucoplan 0.3 mg/kg in the parent study, further improvements in MG-ADL score continued through to Week 24 (least squares mean change [95% confidence interval] from double-blind baseline -6.06 [-7.09, -5.03]) and were sustained through to Week 60 (-6.04 [-7.21, -4.87]). In patients who switched from placebo in the parent study, rapid improvements in MG-ADL score were observed at the first week after switching to zilucoplan; further improvements were observed at Week 24, 12 weeks after switching (-6.46 [-8.19, -4.72]), and were sustained through to Week 60 (-6.51 [-8.37, -4.65]). Consistent results were observed in other efficacy endpoints. Conclusion Zilucoplan demonstrated a favorable long-term safety profile, good tolerability, and sustained efficacy through to Week 60 with consistent benefits in a broad AChR+ gMG population. Additional long-term data will be available in future analyses. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04225871 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04225871).
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Affiliation(s)
- James F. Howard
- Department of Neurology, UNC School of Medicine, The University College of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2200 Houpt Building, CB#7025, 170 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7025, USA
| | - Saskia Bresch
- Service de Neurologie, Hospital Pasteur, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Constantine Farmakidis
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Miriam Freimer
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Angela Genge
- Clinical Research Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Channa Hewamadduma
- Academic Neuroscience Unit, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neurosciences (SITRAN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - John Hinton
- Department of Neurology, Frederick P. Whiddon School of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Yessar Hussain
- Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Raul Juntas-Morales
- Department of Neurology, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Henry J. Kaminski
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Renato Mantegazza
- Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Istituto Nazionale Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Masayuki Masuda
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Richard J. Nowak
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Marek Śmiłowski
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | | | - Tuan Vu
- Department of Neurology, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Michael D. Weiss
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Małgorzata Zajda
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - M. Isabel Leite
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Wang J, Zhou H, Chen H, Feng H, Chang T, Sun C, Guo R, Ruan Z, Bi F, Li J, Wang J, Wang K, Ma G, Lei S, Wang C, Wang Z, Huang F, Zhang S, Wen Q, Wang Y, Sun Y, Li Y, Xie N, Liu H, Jiang Y, Lei L, Fan Z, Su S, Lu Y, Di L, Xu M, Wang M, Chen H, Wang S, Wen X, Zhu W, Duo J, Huang Y, Zheng D, Da Y. Environmental factors affecting the risk of generalization for ocular-onset myasthenia gravis: a nationwide cohort study. QJM 2024; 117:109-118. [PMID: 37802883 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcad225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The environmental effects on the prognosis of ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) remain largely unexplored. AIM To investigate the association between specific environmental factors and the generalization of OMG. DESIGN The cohort study was conducted in China based on a nationwide multicenter database. METHODS Adult patients with OMG at onset, who were followed up for at least 2 years until May 2022, were included. We collected data on demographic and clinical factors, as well as environmental factors, including latitude, socioeconomic status (per capita disposable income [PDI] at provincial level and education) and smoking. The study outcome was the time to the development of generalized myasthenia gravis (GMG). Cox models were employed to examine the association between environmental exposures and generalization. Restricted cubic spline was used to model the association of latitude with generalization risk. RESULTS A total of 1396 participants were included. During a median follow-up of 5.15 (interquartile range [IQR] 3.37-9.03) years, 735 patients developed GMG within a median of 5.69 (IQR 1.10-15.66) years. Latitude of 20-50°N showed a U-shaped relation with generalization risk, with the lowest risk at around 30°N; both higher and lower latitudes were associated with the increased risk (P for non-linearity <0.001). Living in areas with lower PDI had 1.28-2.11 times higher risk of generalization. No significant association was observed with education or smoking. CONCLUSIONS Latitude and provincial-level PDI were associated with the generalization of OMG in China. Further studies are warranted to validate our findings and investigate their potential applications in clinical practice and health policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingsi Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyu Zhou
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongxi Chen
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huiyu Feng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Chang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chao Sun
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Rongjing Guo
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhe Ruan
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fangfang Bi
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianwen Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kang Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Gaoting Ma
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shaoyuan Lei
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunxiu Wang
- Department of Evidence-Based Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhihong Wang
- National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Feifei Huang
- National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Wen
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yaye Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanan Sun
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Nairong Xie
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Haoran Liu
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuting Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Lei
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhirong Fan
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shengyao Su
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Di
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hai Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Suobin Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinmei Wen
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjia Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianying Duo
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Huang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Deqiang Zheng
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuwei Da
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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12
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Rodrigues E, Umeh E, Aishwarya, Navaratnarajah N, Cole A, Moy K. Incidence and prevalence of myasthenia gravis in the United States: A claims-based analysis. Muscle Nerve 2024; 69:166-171. [PMID: 38040629 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare neuromuscular disorder with geographically variable prevalence and incidence rates. A global trend of increasing prevalence of MG has been observed in the last few decades, and this study aimed to assess the current prevalence and incidence rates of MG in the United States. METHODS Data were extracted from the Clarivate Real-World Data Repository (2016-2021), a US claims and electronic health records database. The prevalence and incidence of MG were calculated for the year 2021 for males and females who were <2, 2-5, 6-11, 12-17, 18-49, 50-64, and ≥65 years of age, using population estimates from the US Census. RESULTS The diagnosed prevalence and incidence of MG in the United States in 2021 were calculated to be 37.0 per 100,000 persons and 3.1 per 100,000 persons, respectively. While the incidence and prevalence of MG increased with age in both men and women, higher prevalence and incidence of MG were observed in younger women (<50 years) compared with men of matching age, and in older men (≥65 years) compared with women of the same age group. DISCUSSION The updated prevalence and incidence of MG in the United States in 2021 are higher than previous reports from the 1980s and early 2000s, following a global trend of increased prevalence and incidence for this disorder in the last few decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ema Rodrigues
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emeka Umeh
- Clarivate Analytics, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Aishwarya
- Clarivate Analytics, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Alexander Cole
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kristin Moy
- Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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13
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Yeşil Demirci P, Eskimez Z, Bozdoğan Yeşilot S. The influence of symptom severity and fatigue on sleep quality in patients with myasthenia gravis. Neurol Res 2024; 46:42-48. [PMID: 37700391 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2023.2257449] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myasthenia gravis is a rare and chronic autoimmune disease. The study aimed to evaluate the influence of symptom severity and fatigue on sleep quality in patients with myasthenia gravis. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study, and the population consisted of patients with MG throughout Turkey. The study was completed with 163 patients on 1 April and 31 July 2022. RESULTS It was found that the mean Myasthenia Gravis-Activities of Daily Living Scale score was 6.32 ± 3.9, the Fatigue Severity Scale score was 37.01 ± 23.26, and the total Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score was 9.04 ± 2.69. The variables affecting the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores were age, Body Mass Index, Fatigue Severity Scale ≥ 4, Myasthenia Gravis-Activities of Daily Living Scale ≥ 5.5, duration of diagnosis, and income level; a multiple regression model was created with these variables, and the variables in the resulting model explained 26.4% of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores. In addition, those with clinically significant symptom severity (MG-ADL ≥5.5) in daily living and those with severe fatigue (FSS ≥4) explained 17.2% of the PSQI scores, and the model was statistically significant (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The study determined that the participants had clinically significant symptom severity in daily living, severe fatigue, and poor sleep quality. The participants with clinically significant severe symptoms in daily living and fatigue had higher sleep disturbances, daytime dysfunction, and poor sleep quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pınar Yeşil Demirci
- Nursing Department, Cukurova University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Adana, Turkey
| | - Zehra Eskimez
- Nursing Department, Cukurova University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Adana, Turkey
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14
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Zhen L, Zhao X, Li W, Wu J, Shang H, Chen S, Zhu X, Wang Y, Yu X, Hu G, Sun Z, Zhang Y, Zhang J, Fang H, Zhang Y, Zhang Q, Cui X, Lv J, Yang J, Gao F. Effectiveness of early glucocorticoids in myasthenia gravis: a retrospective cohort study. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1259484. [PMID: 38187148 PMCID: PMC10770254 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1259484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to clarify the effect of early glucocorticoid (GC) application on achieving minimal manifestation (MM) status or better in the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) in the early clinical phase. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed using data from 336 patients with MG who received GC therapy from January 2015 to September 2022 in the Zhengzhou University Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences Myasthenia Gravis Biobank (ZMB). Patients were divided into two groups: the early mono-GC group (treated with GC within 6 months of MG onset) and the delayed mono-GC group. Results Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the early mono-GC group achieved MM status earlier and more frequently than the delayed mono-GC group (log-rank test, p = 0.0082; hazard ratio [HR], 1.66; p = 0.011). The early mono-GC group had a lower maintenance oral GC dose than the delayed mono-GC group. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, early mono-GC (HR, 1.50; p = 0.043), early-onset MG (EOMG) (HR, 1.74; p = 0.034), and ocular MG (OMG) (HR, 1.90; p = 0.007) were associated with MM status or better. In conclusion, early mono-GC, EOMG, and OMG were positive predictors of treatment goals. In EOMG, OMG, and acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive MG (AChR-MG) subgroups, the maintenance oral GC doses in the early mono-GC group were significantly lower than the doses in the delayed mono-GC group (p < 0.05). Conclusion Early intervention with GC led to better long-term outcomes and reduced the necessary maintenance dose of oral GC for patients with MG. EOMG and OMG were positive predictors of MM status or better with mono-GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Zhen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xue Zhao
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenbo Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jinru Wu
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Haodong Shang
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- BGI College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shufan Chen
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- BGI College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiren Wang
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Yu
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- BGI College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guanlian Hu
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- BGI College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhan Sun
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- BGI College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yingna Zhang
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hua Fang
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yunke Zhang
- Department of Encephalopathy, First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qingyong Zhang
- Myasthenia Gravis Comprehensive Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinzheng Cui
- Myasthenia Gravis Comprehensive Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jie Lv
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Junhong Yang
- Department of Encephalopathy, First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Sansoni J, Menon N, Viali L, White S, Vucic S. Clinical features, treatments, their impact, and quality of life for Myasthenia Gravis patients in Australia. J Clin Neurosci 2023; 118:16-22. [PMID: 37844489 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2023.09.023] [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: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
This survey provides an update on the experience of Myasthenia Gravis (MG) patients in Australia. Items were drawn from the 2011 Australian Survey and a 2019 US survey allowing for comparative discussion of survey findings. Patients were recruited through the Myasthenia Alliance Australia. Following consent, patients completed an online survey using REDCap software. Questions included demographics, clinical features, treatment side-effects and quality of life (QOL) scales. Samples for completion of survey sections ranged from N = 242-280 representing a power level of over 80%. Female and seronegative patients reported a significantly greater symptom load, earlier disease onset, longer time to diagnosis, more MG exacerbations, treatment side-effects, and poorer QOL. For exacerbation management there was a higher rate of oral corticosteroid use (66%), a lower use of Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg, 47%) and particularly, Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE, 4.5%) within this sample. Although steroid induced side-effects were rarer (9-34%), a comparatively high use of corticosteroids was reported for current and overall treatments including those for MG crises (52-83%). Common treatment side-effects reported by 57-85% of patients, included fatigue, weight gain, a decrease in the ability to fight infections, gastrointestinal symptoms, and muscle weakness. The impact of MG on daily activities and QOL was considerable, but those who had a thymectomy reported better QOL. The survey identified areas for potential practice improvement in MG treatments (corticosteroids, IVIg, TPE), particularly for exacerbation management, and review is recommended. Further research on gender and antibody status differentials regarding clinical features is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Sansoni
- Biological Data Science Institute, Australian National University, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia; Health Outcomes Collaboration, 2 Bramston St, Fadden, ACT 2904, Australia.
| | - Nidhi Menon
- Biological Data Science Institute, Australian National University, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Lachlan Viali
- Biological Data Science Institute, Australian National University, Acton, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Susan White
- Myasthenia Alliance Australia, 17 Aldridge Ave, Corrimal East, NSW 2518, Australia; Myasthenia Gravis Association of Queensland Inc., PO Box16, Mt Gravatt, Queensland 4122, Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Research Centre, University of Sydney Concord Clinical School, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
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16
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Meisel A. Are CAR T cells the answer to myasthenia gravis therapy? Lancet Neurol 2023; 22:545-546. [PMID: 37353270 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(23)00211-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Meisel
- Neuroscience Clinical Research Center, Center for Stroke Research Berlin, and Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, D-10117 Berlin, Germany.
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17
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Mahic M, Bozorg A, DeCourcy J, Golden K, Gibson G, Taylor C, Scowcroft A. Physician- and patient-reported perspectives on myasthenia gravis in Europe: a real-world survey. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:169. [PMID: 37386469 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02727-0] [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: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare, chronic, debilitating, unpredictable, and potentially life-threatening neuromuscular disease. There is a lack of real-world data on disease management that could be used to further understand and address unmet patient needs and burden. We aimed to provide comprehensive real-world insights in the management of MG in five European countries. METHODS Data were collected using the Adelphi Real World Disease Specific Programme™ in MG, a point-in-time survey of physicians and their patients with MG in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom (UK). Physician- and patient-reported clinical data were collected, including demographics, comorbidities, symptoms, disease history, treatments, healthcare resource utilization (HCRU), and quality of life outcomes. RESULTS In total, 144 physicians completed 778 patient record forms from March to July 2020 in the UK, and from June to September 2020 in France, Germany, Italy and Spain. Mean patient age at symptom onset was 47.7 years, with a mean time from symptom onset to diagnosis of 332.4 days (10.97 months). At diagnosis, 65.3% of patients were classified as Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America Class II or above. Mean number of symptoms reported at diagnosis per patient was five, with ocular myasthenia reported in at least 50% of patients. At time of survey completion, the mean number of symptoms reported per patient was five and ocular myasthenia and ptosis were each still present in more than 50% of patients. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors were the most commonly prescribed chronic treatments in all countries. Of 657 patients treated with chronic treatment at the time of the survey, 62% continued to experience moderate-to-severe symptoms. On average, 3.1 healthcare professionals (HCPs) were involved in patient management, 6.2 consultations were made per patient with any HCP over the last 12 months, and 178 (22.9%) patients were hospitalized in the last 12 months. Overall, HCRU and disease management were similar across all countries. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated the high burden of MG despite current treatment options for patients with MG.
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18
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Howard JF, Bresch S, Genge A, Hewamadduma C, Hinton J, Hussain Y, Juntas-Morales R, Kaminski HJ, Maniaol A, Mantegazza R, Masuda M, Sivakumar K, Śmiłowski M, Utsugisawa K, Vu T, Weiss MD, Zajda M, Boroojerdi B, Brock M, de la Borderie G, Duda PW, Lowcock R, Vanderkelen M, Leite MI. Safety and efficacy of zilucoplan in patients with generalised myasthenia gravis (RAISE): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 study. Lancet Neurol 2023; 22:395-406. [PMID: 37059508 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(23)00080-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Generalised myasthenia gravis is a chronic, unpredictable, and debilitating rare disease, often accompanied by high treatment burden and with an unmet need for more efficacious and well tolerated treatments. Zilucoplan is a subcutaneous, self-administered macrocyclic peptide complement C5 inhibitor. We aimed to assess safety, efficacy, and tolerability of zilucoplan in patients with acetylcholine receptor autoantibody (AChR)-positive generalised myasthenia gravis. METHODS RAISE was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial that was done at 75 sites in Europe, Japan, and North America. We enrolled patients (aged 18-74 years) with AChR-positive generalised myasthenia gravis (Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America disease class II-IV), a myasthenia gravis activities of daily living (MG-ADL) score of least 6, and a quantitative myasthenia gravis score of at least 12. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive subcutaneous zilucoplan 0·3 mg/kg once daily by self-injection, or matched placebo, for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was change from baseline to week 12 in MG-ADL score in the modified intention-to-treat population (all randomly assigned patients who received at least one dose of study drug and had at least one post-dosing MG-ADL score). Safety was mainly assessed by the incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) in all patients who had received at least one dose of zilucoplan or placebo. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04115293. An open-label extension study is ongoing (NCT04225871). FINDINGS Between Sept 17, 2019, and Sept 10, 2021, 239 patients were screened for the study, of whom 174 (73%) were eligible. 86 (49%) patients were randomly assigned to zilucoplan 0·3 mg/kg and 88 (51%) were assigned to placebo. Patients assigned to zilucoplan showed a greater reduction in MG-ADL score from baseline to week 12, compared with those assigned to placebo (least squares mean change -4·39 [95% CI -5·28 to -3·50] vs -2·30 [-3·17 to -1·43]; least squares mean difference -2·09 [-3·24 to -0·95]; p=0·0004). TEAEs occurred in 66 (77%) patients in the zilucoplan group and in 62 (70%) patients in the placebo group. The most common TEAE was injection-site bruising (n=14 [16%] in the zilucoplan group and n=8 [9%] in the placebo group). Incidences of serious TEAEs and serious infections were similar in both groups. One patient died in each group; neither death (COVID-19 [zilucoplan] and cerebral haemorrhage [placebo]) was considered related to the study drug. INTERPRETATION Zilucoplan treatment showed rapid and clinically meaningful improvements in myasthenia gravis-specific efficacy outcomes, had a favourable safety profile, and was well tolerated, with no major safety findings. Zilucoplan is a new potential treatment option for a broad population of patients with AChR-positive generalised myasthenia gravis. The long-term safety and efficacy of zilucoplan is being assessed in an ongoing open-label extension study. FUNDING UCB Pharma.
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Affiliation(s)
- James F Howard
- Department of Neurology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Saskia Bresch
- Service de Neurologie, Hospital Pasteur, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Angela Genge
- Clinical Research Unit, The Montreal Neurological Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Channa Hewamadduma
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neurosciences (SITRAN), University of Sheffield and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - John Hinton
- Diagnostic and Medical Clinic, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Yessar Hussain
- Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Raul Juntas-Morales
- Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Passeig de la Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Henry J Kaminski
- Department of Neurology & Rehabilitation Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Renato Mantegazza
- Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Istituto Nazionale Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Masayuki Masuda
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Marek Śmiłowski
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | | | - Tuan Vu
- Department of Neurology, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Michael D Weiss
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - M Isabel Leite
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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19
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Mevius A, Jöres L, Biskup J, Heidbrede T, Mahic M, Wilke T, Maywald U, Lehnerer S, Meisel A. Epidemiology and treatment of myasthenia gravis: a retrospective study using a large insurance claims dataset in Germany. Neuromuscul Disord 2023; 33:324-333. [PMID: 36921445 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2023.02.002] [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] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare, chronic autoimmune disease with symptoms of fluctuating muscular weakness and fatigability. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to estimate the prevalence and incidence of MG in Germany, and to understand the burden of disease and treatment patterns, based on anonymized German claims data. Two patient samples were identified: (1) incident MG patients with newly onset disease between 2015 and 2019, and (2) prevalent MG patients in 2019. In total, 775 incident MG patients with a mean age of 66.9 years; and 1,247 prevalent MG patients with a mean age of 68.6 years were included. The prevalence for Germany was estimated to be 39.3/100,000 on 31/12/2019; the incidence in 2019 was 4.6 cases/100,000 persons. The 12-month mortality was 5.7. For 31.5% of the incident patients, no MG treatment was observed in the first year after the index date. Of all incident patients, 29.9% experienced an exacerbation, and 6.7% a myasthenic crisis during the observation. Our study indicates that a substantial proportion of MG patients remains untreated. Many MG patients still experience exacerbations / MG crises. MG seems to be associated with an excess mortality in comparison to the general non-MG population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antje Mevius
- Ingress-health HWM GmbH, Alter Holzhafen 19, Wismar 23966, Germany.
| | - Lars Jöres
- UCB Pharma, Alfred-Nobel-Str. 10,Monheim 40789, Germany
| | - Jutta Biskup
- UCB Pharma, Alfred-Nobel-Str. 10,Monheim 40789, Germany
| | | | | | - Thomas Wilke
- IPAM e.V., University of Wismar, Alter Holzhafen 19, Wismar 23966, Germany
| | - Ulf Maywald
- AOK PLUS, Sternplatz 7, Dresden 01067, Germany
| | - Sophie Lehnerer
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany; Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany; Center for Stroke Research Berlin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany; BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité Digital Clinician Scientist Program, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
| | - Andreas Meisel
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany; Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany; Center for Stroke Research Berlin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany; BIH Biomedical Innovation Academy, BIH Charité Digital Clinician Scientist Program, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
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20
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Li K, Hou L, Tan Y, Huang Y, Shi J, Han J, Yan J, Guan Y, Cui L. Iron metabolism in non-anemic myasthenia gravis patients: A cohort study. J Neuroimmunol 2023; 375:578015. [PMID: 36682196 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578015] [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] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association of iron metabolism parameters with disease severity and outcome in myasthenia gravis (MG) patients has not been reported. This study was conducted to determined clinical factors including iron metabolism parameters correlated with disease severity and future outcome in non-anemic immunotherapy-naïve MG patients first receiving immunotherapy. MATERIAL AND METHODS One hundred and ten patients were included at baseline to explore predictor variables associated with disease severity represented by variables derived from MG activities of daily living (MG-ADL) score using multivariate logistic regression, after which 103 and 98 patients were included respectively in multivariate survival analyses at 6-month and 12-month follow-up to identify predictors for minimal manifestation status (MMS) after starting immunotherapy. RESULTS Higher ferritin level was independently associated with higher risk of severe generalized disease in non-anemic immunotherapy-naïve MG patients. Total iron binding capacity <250 μg/dL and the interval between onset and immunotherapy <1 year were independent predictors for MMS at 6-month and 12-month follow-up after initiating immunotherapy. Transferrin <2.00 g/L was an independent predictor for MMS at 12-month follow-up. CONCLUSION Iron metabolism parameters might be promising biomarkers for evaluating disease severity and guiding therapeutic decision in MG patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Li
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Li'an Hou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Ying Tan
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yangyu Huang
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jiayu Shi
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jianhua Han
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jingwen Yan
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yuzhou Guan
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China.
| | - Liying Cui
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
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21
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Li K, Hou L, Tan Y, Huang Y, Shi J, Han J, Yan J, Guan Y. Iron metabolism patterns in non-anemic patients with myasthenia gravis: A cross-sectional and follow-up study. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1060204. [PMID: 36504650 PMCID: PMC9729274 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1060204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose Iron metabolism in myasthenia gravis (MG) and factors associated with it are explored by few published studies. Therefore, this study aimed to compare iron metabolism patterns between patients with MG and healthy individuals as well as between the same group of patients before and after immunotherapy, and to identify predictors of iron metabolism disorders in MG. Materials and methods For this study, 105 patients and healthy individuals were included at baseline, after which paired parametric and non-parametric tests were adopted to compare their iron metabolism patterns, and multivariate binary logistic regression was used to identify predictors of iron metabolism disorders. Patients with MG were then followed up for 12 ± 3 months to explore alterations in their iron metabolism patterns after starting immunotherapy with the help of paired tests. Results Non-anemic immunotherapy-naive patients with MG had significantly lower serum iron (SI) and transferrin saturation (TS) levels than healthy individuals. Premenopausal female was significantly associated with SI < 65 μg/dL and iron deficiency in these patients. However, iron metabolism parameters did not significantly alter after around 12 months of immunotherapy in patients with MG. Conclusion Iron inadequacy was present in patients with MG, particularly premenopausal female patients, and it would hardly improve after immunotherapy. Given the significant role of iron in human body, it should be given more attention in patients with MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Li
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Li'an Hou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Tan
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yangyu Huang
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiayu Shi
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhua Han
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jingwen Yan
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuzhou Guan
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Yuzhou Guan
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22
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Mental health in myasthenia gravis patients and its impact on caregiver burden. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19275. [PMID: 36369246 PMCID: PMC9652470 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22078-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric comorbidities are relevant in patients with Myasthenia gravis (MG). Also, MG patients experience a reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We aimed to quantify the impact of depression as well as self-perceived MG severity on HRQoL and caregivers' burden. In this cross-sectional study, we used a survey encompassing demographic, disease-related information, and standardized questionnaires to assess symptoms of depression, anxiety, HRQoL (MG Quality of Life scale; MG-QoL15), and caregiver burden (Burden Scale for Family Caregivers; BSFC). Data from 1399 participating patients (96%) and 1042 caregivers (65%) were eligible for further analysis. Symptoms of depression and anxiety disorder were indicated by 31% and 36% of patients. Self-reported MG severity (MG severity) and MG-QoL15 scores were strongly associated (estimated marginal means for severe versus mild MG severity = 18 95% CI [16; 21]; p ≤ 0.001). Adjusting for symptoms of depression decreased the estimated strength of this association (estimated marginal means for severe versus mild MG severity = 15 [13; 17]; p ≤ 0.001). Caregiver burden was associated to MG disease severity (estimated marginal means for severe vs. mild MG severity = 0.16 [0.13; 0,19); p ≤ 0.001) and also negatively influenced by symptoms of depression (estimated marginal means = 0.12 [0.09; 0.15]). Symptoms of depression and anxiety disorder in MG are frequent. Beyond MG severity, symptoms of depression have negative effects on HRQoL as well as on caregivers' burden. Diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric comorbidities should be considered an important element in MG care. Screening tools for mental health conditions should be implemented at least in specialized MG centers.
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23
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Jackson K, Parthan A, Lauher-Charest M, Broderick L, Law N, Barnett C. Understanding the Symptom Burden and Impact of Myasthenia Gravis from the Patient's Perspective: A Qualitative Study. Neurol Ther 2022; 12:107-128. [PMID: 36322146 PMCID: PMC9837342 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-022-00408-x] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) experience functional impairment due to MG symptoms. This study aimed to assess, from the patient perspective, the symptoms, impacts, and treatment goals of individuals diagnosed with gMG. METHODS Semi-structured, in-depth concept-elicitation interviews were conducted with 28 individuals diagnosed with gMG in the United States. RESULTS Participants reported gMG symptoms that affected many body regions and functions, with an average of 16 symptoms per participant. The most frequently reported symptoms were eyelid drooping (93%), physical fatigue (89%), symptoms affecting the legs (82%), difficulty breathing (82%), and difficulty holding head up (82%). Nearly all participants (96%) reported fluctuations in symptoms and severity. Participants' most bothersome symptoms were blurry/double vision (43%), breathing difficulties (36%), all-over fatigue (36%), and swallowing problems (29%). Impacts on physical functioning included an inability to participate in hobbies/sports, need for increased planning, and difficulties performing activities of daily living. All participants reported emotional impacts and impacts on their work and finances. Their treatment goals included reduced fatigue and weakness, improved symptom stability, and minimization of the impact of symptoms, in particular the emotional impact. CONCLUSIONS The fluctuating and unpredictable nature of gMG symptoms was found to have a substantial impact on patients' emotional, social, and economic well-being. Participants' goals for symptom management suggest that greater focus is needed to help them quickly resume a normal lifestyle by achieving symptom stability. Impacts of fluctuating and unpredictable symptoms are difficult to measure, but it is important to consider symptom fluctuation as well as ongoing symptomatology when making treatment decisions, and to recognize the impact of uncontrolled symptoms on patients, their partners/caregivers, and family/friends. These factors are often not reflected in burden/cost-of-illness studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anju Parthan
- Global Health Economics & Outcomes Research-Neurology, Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, 121 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA, 02210, USA.
| | | | | | - Nancy Law
- Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, Westborough, MA USA
| | - Carolina Barnett
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University Health Network and University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada ,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
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24
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Piehl F, Eriksson-Dufva A, Budzianowska A, Feresiadou A, Hansson W, Hietala MA, Håkansson I, Johansson R, Jons D, Kmezic I, Lindberg C, Lindh J, Lundin F, Nygren I, Punga AR, Press R, Samuelsson K, Sundström P, Wickberg O, Brauner S, Frisell T. Efficacy and Safety of Rituximab for New-Onset Generalized Myasthenia Gravis: The RINOMAX Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Neurol 2022; 79:1105-1112. [PMID: 36121672 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2022.2887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Importance Rituximab is a third-line option for refractory generalized myasthenia gravis (MG) based on empirical evidence, but its effect in new-onset disease is unknown. Objective To investigate the efficacy and safety of rituximab compared with placebo as an add-on to standard of care for MG. Design, Setting, and Participants This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study took place throughout 48 weeks at 7 regional clinics in Sweden. Key inclusion criteria were age older than 18 years, onset of generalized symptoms within 12 months or less, and a Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis (QMG) score of 6 or more. Patients were screened from October 20, 2016, to March 2, 2020. Key exclusion criteria included pure ocular MG, suspected thymoma, previous thymectomy, and prior noncorticosteroid immunosuppressants or high doses of corticosteroids. Interventions Participants were randomized 1:1 without stratification to a single intravenous infusion of 500 mg of rituximab or matching placebo. Main Outcomes and Measures Minimal disease manifestations at 16 weeks defined as a QMG score of 4 or less with prednisolone, 10 mg or less daily, and no rescue treatment. Results Of 87 potentially eligible patients, 25 were randomized to rituximab (mean [SD] age, 67.4 [13.4] years; 7 [28%] female) and 22 to placebo (mean [SD] age, 58 [18.6] years; 7 [32%] female). Compared with placebo, a greater proportion with rituximab met the primary end point; 71% (17 of 24) in the rituximab group vs 29% (6 of 21) in the placebo group (Fisher exact test P = .007; probability ratio, 2.48 [95% CI, 1.20-5.11]). Secondary end points, comparing changes in Myasthenia Gravis Activities of Daily Living and Myasthenia Gravis Quality of Life at 16 weeks with QMG at 24 weeks did not differ between groups with censoring for rescue treatment (per-protocol analysis) but were in favor of active treatment when rescue treatment was taken into account by worst rank imputation (post hoc analysis). Rescue treatments were also more frequent in the placebo arm (rituximab: 1 [4%]; placebo, 8 [36%]). One patient in the placebo arm had a myocardial infarction with cardiac arrest and 1 patient in the active arm experienced a fatal cardiac event. Conclusions and Relevance A single dose of 500 mg of rituximab was associated with greater probability of minimal MG manifestations and reduced need of rescue medications compared with placebo. Further studies are needed to address long-term benefit-risk balance with this treatment. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02950155.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fredrik Piehl
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Neuroimmunology Unit, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ann Eriksson-Dufva
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Neuroimmunology Unit, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Budzianowska
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, Ryhov Regional Hospital, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Amalia Feresiadou
- Department of Neurology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Neurology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - William Hansson
- Department of Clinical Science, Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Max Albert Hietala
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Irene Håkansson
- Department of Neurology, Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Rune Johansson
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, Central Hospital Karlstad, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Daniel Jons
- Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ivan Kmezic
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christopher Lindberg
- Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jonas Lindh
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, Ryhov Regional Hospital, Jönköping, Sweden.,Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Lundin
- Department of Neurology, Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Ingela Nygren
- Department of Neurology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Neurology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Rostedt Punga
- Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Neurophysiology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Rayomand Press
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristin Samuelsson
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Sundström
- Department of Clinical Science, Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Oskar Wickberg
- Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation, Central Hospital Karlstad, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Susanna Brauner
- Department of Neurology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Neuroimmunology Unit, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas Frisell
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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25
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Liu L, Zhang H, Lu X, Li L, Wang T, Li S, Wang X, Xu S, Li L, Li Q, Yi T, Wu T, Chen Z, Gao H, Wang J, Wang L. LncRNA LINC00680 Acts as a Competing Endogenous RNA and Is Associated With the Severity of Myasthennia Gravis. Front Neurol 2022; 13:833062. [PMID: 35800083 PMCID: PMC9253289 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.833062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and PurposeMyasthenia gravis (MG) is a T cell-dependent antibody-mediated autoimmune disorder that can seriously affect patients' quality of life. However, few studies have focused on the severity of MG. Moreover, existing therapeutic efforts, including those targeting biomarkers for MG, remain unsatisfactory. Therefore, it is vital that we investigate the pathogenesis of MG and identify new biomarkers that can not only evaluate the severity of the disease but also serve as potential therapeutic targets. Long noncoding RNA LINC00680 has been found to be associated with the progression of a variety of diseases as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA). However, the specific role of LINC00680 in MG has yet to be clarified. Here, we aimed to investigate the association between LINC00680 and the severity of MG.MethodsBioinformatics tools, quantitative real-time PCR, Western blotting, and luciferase assays were selected to investigate key signaling pathways and RNA expression in patients with MG. The Quantitative MG Score scale and the MG Composite scale were used to evaluate the severity of MG in the included patients. Cell viability assays and flow cytometry analysis were selected to analyze cell proliferation and apoptosis.ResultsCompared with control subjects, the expression levels of LINC00680 and mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with MG were both upregulated; the levels of miR-320a were downregulated. A positive correlation was detected between LINC00680 expression and the severity of MG. Luciferase reporter assays identified that LINC00680 acts as a target for miR-320a. The in vitro analysis confirmed that LINC00680 regulates the expression of MAPK1 by sponging miR-320a. Finally, the functional analysis indicated that LINC00680 promoted Jurkat cell proliferation and inhibited cellular apoptosis by sponging miR-320a.ConclusionLINC00680 may be associated with the severity of MG as a ceRNA by sponging miR-320a to upregulate MAPK1. These findings suggest that LINC00680 may represent a potential biomarker which evaluates the severity of MG and may serve as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Department of Neurology, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Huixue Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoyu Lu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Lifang Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Tianfeng Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Si Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Tingting Yi
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Tao Wu
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhimin Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Hongyu Gao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jianjian Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Jianjian Wang
| | - Lihua Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Lihua Wang
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26
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Zhao S, Yan X, Ding J, Ren K, Sun S, Lu J, Zhang C, Zhang K, Li Z, Guo J. Lack of Immunotherapy as the Only Predictor of Secondary Generalization in Very-Late-Onset Myasthenia Gravis With Pure Ocular Onset. Front Neurol 2022; 13:857402. [PMID: 35547386 PMCID: PMC9081806 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.857402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During the past two decades, an increasing number of patients with very-late-onset myasthenia gravis (v-LOMG) with an onset age of 65 years or older have been identified. However, few studies explore the predictors of secondary generalization in patients with v-LOMG with pure ocular onset. In this retrospective cohort study, 69 patients with v-LOMG were divided into ocular MG (OMG) and generalized MG (GMG), and the clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared. Cox regression analysis was performed to explore the predictors of generalization. The average onset age of the study population was 73.1 ± 4.2 years and the median disease duration was 48.0 months (interquartile range, 32.5-64.5 months). Serum acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody was detected in up to 86% of patients and concomitant diseases in approximately half of the patients. Male predominance was seen in OMG group while female predominance in GMG group (p = 0.043). Patients with OMG showed a lower positive rate of repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) than those with GMG (p = 0.014), and favorable outcomes were obtained in more patients with OMG than those with GMG (p < 0.001). Of the 51 patients with pure ocular onset, 25 (49.0%) underwent secondary generalization. A higher probability of generalization was found in patients with positive RNS results and without immunotherapy (p = 0.018 and <0.001). Upon Cox regression analysis, immunotherapy was negatively associated with secondary generalization [HR (hazard ratio) 0.077, 95%CI [0.024-0.247], p < 0.001]. Altogether, compared to the patients with very-late-onset GMG, the counterparts with OMG exhibit a significantly higher female predominance and a lower positive rate of RNS tests, especially on facial and accessory nerves. Lack of immunotherapy is the only predictor of secondary generalization in those with pure ocular onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xu Yan
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Department of Neurology, Suide County Hospital, Yulin, China
| | - Jiaqi Ding
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Kaixi Ren
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shuyu Sun
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiarui Lu
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Xi'an, Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhuyi Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jun Guo
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Comprehensive evaluation of velopharyngeal function in myasthenia gravis patients. Acta Neurol Belg 2022; 122:1229-1236. [PMID: 35306634 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-022-01904-5] [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: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hypernasality, which is a symptom of dysarthria, may be seen in patients with Myasthenia Gravis with bulbar symptoms. However, there is not enough evidence to show that these patients may have velopharyngeal dysfunction. This study investigates the features of velopharyngeal function in myasthenia gravis patients using objective and subjective measurement tools. METHODS Ten adult myasthenia gravis patients with bulbar symptoms and ten adult myasthenia gravis patients without bulbar symptoms were recruited for this study. Ten healthy subjects were also included as the control group. The nasalance scores of the participants were determined using a nasometer. The degree and pattern of velopharyngeal closure were scored using flexible nasoendoscopy during speech, blowing, dry swallowing, and food swallowing. Perceptual hypernasality was assessed. RESULTS Velopharyngeal dysfunction was detected in 50% of the myasthenia gravis patients with bulbar symptoms. Velopharyngeal dysfunction was not seen in myasthenia gravis patients without bulbar symptoms. The degree of velopharyngeal closure in patients with bulbar symptoms differed depending on the tasks being performed. No significant difference in velopharyngeal closure patterns was observed between the groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Myasthenia gravis patients with bulbar involvement may have velopharyngeal dysfunction. It is important to conduct a comprehensive evaluation to assess all aspects of the velopharyngeal function.
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Advancing research in autoimmune neuromuscular disorders. Lancet Neurol 2022; 21:108-110. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00469-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Patient-Reported Symptom Severity in a Nationwide Myasthenia Gravis Cohort: Cross-sectional Analysis of the Swedish GEMG Study. Neurology 2021; 97:1141. [PMID: 34716258 PMCID: PMC9049294 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000013021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Evoli A, Gilhus NE, Guptill J. Editorial: News and Views in the Management of Myasthenia Gravis. Front Neurol 2021. [PMCID: PMC8528964 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.769086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Evoli
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
- Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Roma, Italy
- *Correspondence: Amelia Evoli
| | - Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jeffrey Guptill
- Department of Neurology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
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Atkins C, Barnett C. People With Myasthenia Are Getting Better, but Are They Doing Well? Neurology 2021; 97:663-664. [PMID: 34376510 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000012617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chloë Atkins
- From the PROUD Project on Employment and Disability (C.A.), Department of Political Science, Scarborough College, and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (C.B.), Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto; Living With MG for 30+ Years (EOMG, Diagnostic Delay) (C.A.); and Ellen and Martin Prosseman Centre for Neuromuscular Disease (C.B.), University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carolina Barnett
- From the PROUD Project on Employment and Disability (C.A.), Department of Political Science, Scarborough College, and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (C.B.), Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto; Living With MG for 30+ Years (EOMG, Diagnostic Delay) (C.A.); and Ellen and Martin Prosseman Centre for Neuromuscular Disease (C.B.), University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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