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Todorović S, Vojinović S, Savić D, Aleksić D, Danilović M. Potential beneficial effect of IFN-β1a and ocrelizumab in people with MS during the COVID-19 pandemic. Acta Neurol Belg 2024; 124:447-455. [PMID: 37962785 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-023-02421-9] [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: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Disease-modifying therapy (DMT) has led to added challenges in the management of people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) during the COVID-19 era. It can reduce relapse in MS or slow down disease progression, but some DMTs can increased risk of infection. The aim of study was to evaluate risk and severity of COVID-19 in pwMS. METHODS The examined group of pwMS were divided in group treated with IFN-β1a, group treated with ocrelizumab and untreated group. The examination included impact of age, gender, duration of MS, type of MS, vaccination status and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) on the risk and severity of COVID-19 infection. A diagnosis of COVID-19 in pwMS was confirmed by positive polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR) or antigen test. RESULTS Out of 207 pwMS, 82 patients were treated with ocrelizumab, 63 with IFN-β1a, while 62 patients were untreated pwMS. The average duration of the MS was longer in the group of patients treated with ocrelizumab than in the group treated with IFN-β1a (p < 0.05). EDSS was higher in the ocrelizumab group compared to the other two groups (p < 0.001). Untreated (more often unvaccinated) had the same COVID frequency as ocrelizumab-treated (more vaccinated, but higher EDSS). The multivariate logistic regression model indicated that administration of IFN-β1a reduces the risk of COVID-19 infection (p = 0.001, OR = 0.381, 95% CI 0.602-0.160). The use of both DMTs, driven mainly by the IFN-β1a effect, reduces the risk of moderate and severe COVID-19 (p < 0.05, OR = 0.105, 95% CI 0.011-0.968). CONCLUSION This study provides evidence that IFN-β1a can reduce the frequency of COVID-19 infection and that two DMTs, driven mainly by the IFN-β1a effect, do not increase the risk of moderate/severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Todorović
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Center Niš, Blvd Dr Zoran Dindjic 48, 18000, Nis, Serbia.
| | - Slobodan Vojinović
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Center Niš, Blvd Dr Zoran Dindjic 48, 18000, Nis, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Nis, Serbia
| | - Dejan Savić
- Department of Neurology, University Clinical Center Niš, Blvd Dr Zoran Dindjic 48, 18000, Nis, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Nis, Serbia
| | - Dejan Aleksić
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Miloš Danilović
- Military Medical Academy, Clinic for Neurology, Belgrade, Serbia
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Hernández-García I, Rodríguez-Montolio J, Almeida-Zurita M, Cheli-Gracia D, Sahuquillo BDM, Aibar-Remón C, Garcés-Redondo M. COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage and Associated Factors in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:126. [PMID: 38400109 PMCID: PMC10893319 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12020126] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Our objective was to know the COVID-19 vaccination coverage in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and its factors associated. A retrospective cohort study was carried out. Patients seen at the MS unit of the University Clinical Hospital of Zaragoza between 2017 and 2021 were included. Variables were obtained by reviewing the specialized and primary care records. Associations between receiving COVID-19 full primo-vaccination, as well as one booster dose since autumn 2022, and the other variables were analyzed using bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression models. Of the 359 included patients, 90.3% received the COVID-19 full primo-vaccination. Having been born in Spain (aOR = 3.40) and having received the 2020-2021 influenza vaccine (aOR = 6.77) were associated with receiving the COVID-19 full primo-vaccination. Vaccination with a COVID-19 booster dose was detected in 141 patients (39.3%). Sex (man) (aOR = 2.36), age (60 years or over) (aOR = 6.82), type of MS (Primary Progressive/Secondary Progressive) (aOR = 3.94), and having received the 2022-2023 influenza vaccine (aOR = 27.54) were associated with receiving such a booster dose. The COVID-19 booster dose was administered at the same time as the 2022-2023 influenza vaccine in 57.8% (67/116) of the patients vaccinated with both vaccines. The COVID-19 full primo-vaccination coverage is higher than in other countries. However, the decrease in vaccination coverage with the booster dose makes it necessary to develop strategies to improve it that are not limited to administering the flu vaccine together with the COVID-19 booster dose. Such strategies should be in focus, especially for women under 60 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Hernández-García
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Lozano Blesa University Clinical Hospital of Zaragoza, Calle San Juan Bosco 15, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Health Services Research Group of Aragon (GRISSA), Aragon Institute for Health Research (IISA), Calle San Juan Bosco 15, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Joana Rodríguez-Montolio
- Department of Neurology, Lozano Blesa University Clinical Hospital of Zaragoza, Calle San Juan Bosco 15, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.R.-M.); (M.A.-Z.); (D.C.-G.); (B.d.M.S.); (M.G.-R.)
| | - Monserrath Almeida-Zurita
- Department of Neurology, Lozano Blesa University Clinical Hospital of Zaragoza, Calle San Juan Bosco 15, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.R.-M.); (M.A.-Z.); (D.C.-G.); (B.d.M.S.); (M.G.-R.)
| | - Dionisio Cheli-Gracia
- Department of Neurology, Lozano Blesa University Clinical Hospital of Zaragoza, Calle San Juan Bosco 15, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.R.-M.); (M.A.-Z.); (D.C.-G.); (B.d.M.S.); (M.G.-R.)
| | - Belén del Moral Sahuquillo
- Department of Neurology, Lozano Blesa University Clinical Hospital of Zaragoza, Calle San Juan Bosco 15, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.R.-M.); (M.A.-Z.); (D.C.-G.); (B.d.M.S.); (M.G.-R.)
| | - Carlos Aibar-Remón
- Health Services Research Group of Aragon (GRISSA), Aragon Institute for Health Research (IISA), Calle San Juan Bosco 15, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
- Department of Microbiology, Pediatrics, Radiology and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, Calle de Pedro Cerbuna 12, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Moisés Garcés-Redondo
- Department of Neurology, Lozano Blesa University Clinical Hospital of Zaragoza, Calle San Juan Bosco 15, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (J.R.-M.); (M.A.-Z.); (D.C.-G.); (B.d.M.S.); (M.G.-R.)
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Carlini F, Lusi V, Rizzi C, Assogna F, Laroni A. Cladribine Tablets Mode of Action, Learning from the Pandemic: A Narrative Review. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:1477-1490. [PMID: 37421556 PMCID: PMC10444742 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00520-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system, characterized by chronic, inflammatory, demyelinating, and neurodegenerative processes. MS management relies on disease-modifying drugs that suppress/modulate the immune system. Cladribine tablets (CladT) have been approved by different health authorities for patients with various forms of relapsing MS. The drug has been demonstrated to deplete CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells, with a higher effect described in the former, and to decrease total CD19+, CD20+, and naive B-cell counts. COVID-19 is expected to become endemic, suggesting its potential infection risk for immuno-compromised patients, including MS patients treated with disease-modifying drugs. We report here the available data on disease-modifying drug-treated-MS patients and COVID-19 infection and vaccination, with a focus on CladT. MS patients treated with CladT are not at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19. While anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is recommended in all MS patients with guidelines addressing vaccination timing according to the different disease-modifying drugs, no vaccination timing restrictions seem to be necessary for cladribine, based on its mechanism of action and available evidence. Published data suggest that CladT treatment does not impact the production of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies after COVID-19 vaccination, possibly due to its relative sparing effect on naïve B-cells and the rapid B-cell reconstitution following treatment. Slightly lower specific T-cell responses are likely not impacting the risk of breakthrough COVID-19. It could be stated that cladribine's transient effect on innate immune cells likely contributes to maintaining an adequate first line of defense against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Carlini
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, Genoa, Italy
| | - Valeria Lusi
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, Genoa, Italy
| | - Caterina Rizzi
- Merck Serono S.P.A., Italy an Affiliate of Merck KGaA, Piazza del Pigneto 9, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Assogna
- Merck Serono S.P.A., Italy an Affiliate of Merck KGaA, Piazza del Pigneto 9, Rome, Italy
| | - Alice Laroni
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, Genoa, Italy.
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genova, Largo Daneo 3, Genoa, Italy.
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Al-Shammri S, Chadha G, Chattopadhyay A, Doi S. The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Unvaccinated Multiple Sclerosis Patients on Disease-Modifying Therapies. Med Princ Pract 2023; 32:143-148. [PMID: 37231972 PMCID: PMC10319087 DOI: 10.1159/000530764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in multiple sclerosis (MS) may affect the course and outcome of COVID-19, but withholding them could permit disease activity. This study aimed to understand the course of COVID-19 in unvaccinated patients with MS on disease-modifying therapies. SUBJECTS AND METHODS This descriptive study examined the course of COVID-19 among infected patients with MS followed up at a large tertiary center in Kuwait between March 1, 2020, and March 1, 2021. All subjects were outpatients at the time of data collection. RESULTS We studied 51 patients with MS confirmed to be infected with SARS-CoV-2 using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Of these patients, 33/51 were female, median age was 35 years (IQR 27-39 years), median Expanded Disability Status Scale score was 1.5 (IQR zero-3), and 47/51 had RRMS. B-cell-depleting agents (ocrelizumab and rituximab) were given to 19 patients, another 19 were on immune cell traffickers (fingolimod and natalizumab), and 13 were on other DMT treatments (alemtuzumab, cladribine, interferon-beta, dimethyl fumarate, and teriflunomide). 43/51 of these patients experienced mild COVID-19, not requiring hospitalization. None of the subjects experienced MS relapses during infection. Two patients on rituximab had a moderate course of the illness, which required hospitalization for oxygen support, but did not need mechanical ventilation; the rest of the subjects remained asymptomatic. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that DMT may not adversely affect the course of COVID-19 in MS patients; however, patients on B-cell-depleting agents trended toward a worse outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhail Al-Shammri
- Department of Medicine, Kuwait and Head Neurology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- Neurology Unit, Mubarak al Kabeer Hospital, Ministry of Health, Jabriya, Kuwait
| | - Geeti Chadha
- Neurology Unit, Mubarak al Kabeer Hospital, Ministry of Health, Jabriya, Kuwait
| | - Arpita Chattopadhyay
- Department of Medicine, Kuwait and Head Neurology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Suhail Doi
- Department of Population Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prescription of multiple sclerosis medication in Germany. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114129. [PMID: 36527843 PMCID: PMC9756211 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114129] [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: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Real-word evidence from diverse data sources is increasingly important in terms of generating rapid insights to effectively manage patient populations, especially during major public health disruptions such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Patients with chronic and inflammatory diseases - such as multiple sclerosis (MS) - were reported to experience potentially negative effects due to the use of immunosuppressive drugs in combination with a COVID-19 infection. In this research, we explored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medication use in patients with MS in Germany. METHODS Patient-level pharmacy dispensing data from the Permea platform - covering approximately 44% of all community pharmacy dispensing in Germany - were analysed from 2019 - 2021. Longitudinal use patterns of MS medication and antidepressants and patient demographics were assessed. Daily variation in MS medication use was specifically studied around the dates of the first and second lockdowns in Germany. RESULTS We included data from 539,400 prescriptions which included at least 1 MS drug. The medication data showed a stable level of monthly prescriptions for MS medication at 2.02 ± 0.03 prescriptions per pharmacy during the study period. Although there was a sharp increase in daily prescriptions before the first lockdown (from an average 660.08 ± 137.59 daily prescriptions in the observed period to a maximum dispensing number of 998 daily prescriptions), the overall number of prescriptions remained at pre-pandemic levels (603 ± 90.31 daily prescriptions in 2019). Similar trends were observed for monthly co-prescribed antidepressant use per pharmacy (0.10 ± 0.01 in 2019-0.11 ± 0.02 in 2020). CONCLUSION Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of MS medications and co-prescribed antidepressants was stable. These insights from real-world data demonstrate the value of evidence-based insights for managing patient care.
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Characteristics and management of multiple sclerosis patients during the Omicron era: is there a concern about the MS course in the face of the new variant of COVID-19? Neurol Sci 2023; 44:659-665. [PMID: 36253579 PMCID: PMC9576316 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06447-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Omicron variant of COVID-19 is highly transmissible, triggering unprecedented infection rates. The present study aimed to investigate the course of multiple sclerosis (MS) in the Omicron era among Iranian patients with MS. METHODS This observational study was designed on MS patients of the national MS registry of Iran through a self-designed online questionnaire. A questionnaire was prepared as a Google Form for MS patients during the Omicron outbreak from 1 March to 30 April 2022. RESULTS One hundred seventy-four patients with a mean age of 37.3 ± 9.04 were enrolled. Of the patients, 95.97% used DMT, the most common of which were rituximab and fingolimod. Of the patients, 77.58% were fully vaccinated for COVID-19. Regardless of the COVID-19 vaccination status, 76 patients developed COVID-19, which was mild to moderate. Except for recent corticosteroid therapy and secondary progressive MS (SPMS), other demographic and MS characteristics were not significantly associated with the severity of COVID-19. There was also a marginal association between the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the severity of COVID-19. In addition, 17.10% of patients reported MS relapse following COVID-19 leading to escalation therapy in eight patients. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrated that in the Omicron era, most patients developed mild COVID-19. Although the predominant COVID-19 variant in this period was Omicron, we could not separate the pathogenic variants. The risk factors for COVID-19 during the Omicron era were not different from other pandemic waves. Our preliminary results revealed that the MS relapse following COVID-19 was higher than in previous waves.
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Sedighi B, Haghdoost A, Jangipour Afshar P, Abna Z, Bahmani S, Jafari S. Multiple sclerosis and COVID-19: A retrospective study in Iran. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283538. [PMID: 36952532 PMCID: PMC10035930 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies suggested a higher rate of COVID-19 infection in patients with multiple sclerosis than in the general population, and limited studies addressed the impact of COVID-19 and its vaccination in patients with multiple sclerosis in Iran. We decided to investigate the factors associated with COVID-19 infection, the effects and side effects of the COVID-19 vaccination in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS We used the data of the patients with multiple sclerosis registered in a referral clinic in Kerman, one of the large cities in Iran (a population of 537,000 inhabitants), to explore the association between demographic variables, the history of COVID-19 vaccination, and the clinical outcomes. RESULTS Of the 367 participants in this study, 88.3% received the COVID-19 vaccine, 35.4% were confirmed COVID-19 cases, and the incidence of COVID-19 was much higher before vaccination (24.5% before vaccination versus 10.1% after vaccination). The multivariable logistic regression model showed that male gender (OR = 2.64, 95% confidence interval: 1.21, 5.74) and current employment (OR = 3.04, 95% confidence interval: 1.59, 5.80) were associated with an increased risk of COVID-19. The only factor associated with the adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccination was the type of vaccine (AstraZeneca). CONCLUSION Our findings showed that the vaccination protected MS cases considerably against COVID-19. In addition, the side effects of the vaccines were not noticeably high in these cases as well. Among all COVID-19 vaccines, AstraZeneca had the most common side effects, so people must be aware of them before vaccination. The male gender and employment were the most important variables in the prevalence of COVID-19 in patients with multiple sclerosis in our study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnaz Sedighi
- Neurology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Aliakbar Haghdoost
- Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Modeling in Health Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Parya Jangipour Afshar
- Faculty of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Zohre Abna
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shamimeh Bahmani
- Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Simin Jafari
- Neurology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Meca-Lallana V, García Domínguez JM, López Ruiz R, Martín-Martínez J, Arés Luque A, Hernández Pérez MA, Prieto González JM, Landete Pascual L, Sastre-Garriga J. Expert-Agreed Practical Recommendations on the Use of Cladribine. Neurol Ther 2022; 11:1475-1488. [PMID: 36068429 PMCID: PMC9447968 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-022-00394-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cladribine is a disease-modifying selective immune reconstitution oral therapy for adult patients with highly active relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). It was approved in the USA in 2019 and in Europe in 2017, thus there are still gaps in existing guidelines for using cladribine tablets in clinical practice. Nine experts with extensive experience in managing patients with multiple sclerosis in Spain identified some of the unanswered questions related to the real-life use of cladribine tablets. They reviewed the available clinical trial data and real-world evidence, including their own experiences of using cladribine, over the course of three virtual meetings held between November 2020 and January 2021. This article gathers their practical recommendations to aid treatment decision-making and optimise the use of cladribine tablets in patients with RMS. The consensus recommendations cover the following areas: candidate patient profiles, switching strategies (to and from cladribine), managing response to cladribine and safety considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Meca-Lallana
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario "La Princesa", Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Rocío López Ruiz
- Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Seville, Spain
| | | | - Adrián Arés Luque
- Neurology Department, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de León, León, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Jaume Sastre-Garriga
- Neurology Department, Centre d'Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Spain
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Muñoz-Jurado A, Escribano BM, Agüera E, Caballero-Villarraso J, Galván A, Túnez I. SARS-CoV-2 infection in multiple sclerosis patients: interaction with treatments, adjuvant therapies, and vaccines against COVID-19. J Neurol 2022; 269:4581-4603. [PMID: 35788744 PMCID: PMC9253265 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-022-11237-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has raised particular concern for people with Multiple Sclerosis, as these people are believed to be at increased risk of infection, especially those being treated with disease-modifying therapies. Therefore, the objective of this review was to describe how COVID-19 affects people who suffer from Multiple Sclerosis, evaluating the risk they have of suffering an infection by this virus, according to the therapy to which they are subjected as well as the immune response of these patients both to infection and vaccines and the neurological consequences that the virus can have in the long term. The results regarding the increased risk of infection due to treatment are contradictory. B-cell depletion therapies may cause patients to have a lower probability of generating a detectable neutralizing antibody titer. However, more studies are needed to help understand how this virus works, paying special attention to long COVID and the neurological symptoms that it causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Muñoz-Jurado
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Campus of Rabanales, 14071 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Begoña M. Escribano
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Campus of Rabanales, 14071 Cordoba, Spain
- Maimonides Institute for Research in Biomedicine of Cordoba, (IMIBC), Cordoba, Spain
| | - Eduardo Agüera
- Maimonides Institute for Research in Biomedicine of Cordoba, (IMIBC), Cordoba, Spain
- Neurology Service, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Javier Caballero-Villarraso
- Maimonides Institute for Research in Biomedicine of Cordoba, (IMIBC), Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, Av. Menendez Pidal, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Clinical Analysis Service, Reina Sofía University Hospital, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Alberto Galván
- Maimonides Institute for Research in Biomedicine of Cordoba, (IMIBC), Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, Av. Menendez Pidal, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Isaac Túnez
- Maimonides Institute for Research in Biomedicine of Cordoba, (IMIBC), Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, Av. Menendez Pidal, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Cooperative Research Thematic Excellent Network on Brain Stimulation (REDESTIM), Madrid, Spain
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Moiola L, Riva A, Nicoletti F, Uccelli A, Salvetti M, Battistini L, Furlan R. Vaccination Opportunities in Multiple Sclerosis Patients Treated with Cladribine Tablets. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:1811-1815. [PMID: 34923946 PMCID: PMC9886810 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666211217160451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID 19 pandemic and mass vaccination campaigns have revealed the situation of the most vulnerable patients. In this work, we focused our attention to patients who have Multiple Sclerosis (MS), particularly in treatment with cladribine tablets, trying to understand if and when it is possible to administer the vaccine successfully. In light of the novel topic, we studied the existing literature and analysed experiences with previous vaccinations, such as influenza and VZV, as well as data from countries where vaccination campaigns had already begun. Overall, we have taken into account the mechanism of action, the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic of cladribine, and the changes in the immune system after its administration, together with the preliminary data about the humoral response to influenza, VZV, and SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations in cladribine treated patients. In conclusion, data showed that the use of cladribine tablets seems to permit flexibility regarding vaccination timing and we suggest that vaccination in those patients should be safe and effective. The current COVID 19 pandemic has re-ignited the interest in vaccines and vaccination procedures. The importance of including fragile individuals has increased as a result of mass vaccination. Millions of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) around the world are debating whether they can safely receive their vaccine shot with the same efficacy despite receiving immune-modulating or immune-suppressive treatments. In the absence of conclusive empirical data, we will review and discuss the available evidence and the reasonable conclusions for one specific treatment, namely cladribine tablets (Mavenclad).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Moiola
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy/Neurology Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy;
| | - Agostino Riva
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences 'L.Sacco' University of Milan, Milan, Italy;
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Università Sapienza, Roma, Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo (INM); Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy;
| | - Antonio Uccelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health Unit, University of Genoa; Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, IRCCS, Genoa; and Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Italy;
| | - Marco Salvetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy; Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo (INM) Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy;
| | - Luca Battistini
- Neuroimmunology Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy;
| | - Roberto Furlan
- Clinical Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy,Address correspondence to this author at the Clinical Neuroimmunology Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Tel: +390226434867; Fax: +390226434855; E-mail:
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Verstegen NJM, Hagen RR, van den Dijssel J, Kuijper LH, Kreher C, Ashhurst T, Kummer LYL, Steenhuis M, Duurland M, de Jongh R, de Jong N, van der Schoot CE, Bos AV, Mul E, Kedzierska K, van Dam KPJ, Stalman EW, Boekel L, Wolbink G, Tas SW, Killestein J, van Kempen ZLE, Wieske L, Kuijpers TW, Eftimov F, Rispens T, van Ham SM, ten Brinke A, van de Sandt CE. Immune dynamics in SARS-CoV-2 experienced immunosuppressed rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis patients vaccinated with mRNA-1273. eLife 2022; 11:e77969. [PMID: 35838348 PMCID: PMC9337853 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Patients affected by different types of autoimmune diseases, including common conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), are often treated with immunosuppressants to suppress disease activity. It is not fully understood how the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-specific humoral and cellular immunity induced by infection and/or upon vaccination is affected by immunosuppressants. Methods The dynamics of cellular immune reactivation upon vaccination of SARS-CoV-2 experienced MS patients treated with the humanized anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody ocrelizumab (OCR) and RA patients treated with methotrexate (MTX) monotherapy were analyzed at great depth via high-dimensional flow cytometry of whole blood samples upon vaccination with the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-1273 (Moderna) vaccine. Longitudinal B and T cell immune responses were compared to SARS-CoV-2 experienced healthy controls (HCs) before and 7 days after the first and second vaccination. Results OCR-treated MS patients exhibit a preserved recall response of CD8+ T central memory cells following first vaccination compared to HCs and a similar CD4+ circulating T follicular helper 1 and T helper 1 dynamics, whereas humoral and B cell responses were strongly impaired resulting in absence of SARS-CoV-2-specific humoral immunity. MTX treatment significantly delayed antibody levels and B reactivation following the first vaccination, including sustained inhibition of overall reactivation marker dynamics of the responding CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Conclusions Together, these findings indicate that SARS-CoV-2 experienced MS-OCR patients may still benefit from vaccination by inducing a broad CD8+ T cell response which has been associated with milder disease outcome. The delayed vaccine-induced IgG kinetics in RA-MTX patients indicate an increased risk after the first vaccination, which might require additional shielding or alternative strategies such as treatment interruptions in vulnerable patients. Funding This research project was supported by ZonMw (The Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development, #10430072010007), the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement (#792532 and #860003), the European Commission (SUPPORT-E, #101015756) and by PPOC (#20_21 L2506), the NHMRC Leadership Investigator Grant (#1173871).
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels JM Verstegen
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Ruth R Hagen
- Department of Hematopoiesis, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunohematology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner LaboratoryAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Jet van den Dijssel
- Department of Hematopoiesis, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunohematology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner LaboratoryAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Lisan H Kuijper
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Christine Kreher
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Thomas Ashhurst
- Sydney Cytometry Core Research Facility, Charles Perkins Centre, Centenary Institute, and The University of SydneySydneyAustralia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - Laura YL Kummer
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Maurice Steenhuis
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Mariel Duurland
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Rivka de Jongh
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Nina de Jong
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - C Ellen van der Schoot
- Department of Experimental Immunohematology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner LaboratoryAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Amélie V Bos
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Erik Mul
- Department of Research Facilities, Sanquin ResearchAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Katherine Kedzierska
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and ImmunityMelbourneAustralia
- Global Station for Zoonosis Control, Global Institution for Collaborative Research and Education (GI-CoRE), Hokkaido UniversitySapporoJapan
| | - Koos PJ van Dam
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Eileen W Stalman
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Laura Boekel
- Department of Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology CenterAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Gertjan Wolbink
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology CenterAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Sander W Tas
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and immunology Center, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Joep Killestein
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Department of NeurologyAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Zoé LE van Kempen
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Department of NeurologyAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Luuk Wieske
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, St Antonius HospitalNieuwegeinNetherlands
| | - Taco W Kuijpers
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Rheumatology and Infectious Disease, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Filip Eftimov
- Department of Neurology and Neurophysiology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Theo Rispens
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - S Marieke van Ham
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Anja ten Brinke
- Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Carolien E van de Sandt
- Department of Hematopoiesis, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and ImmunityMelbourneAustralia
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12
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Meacci E, Pierucci F, Garcia-Gil M. Skeletal Muscle and COVID-19: The Potential Involvement of Bioactive Sphingolipids. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10051068. [PMID: 35625805 PMCID: PMC9138286 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10051068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 virus infection is the cause of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is still spreading over the world. The manifestation of this disease can range from mild to severe and can be limited in time (weeks) or persist for months in about 30–50% of patients. COVID-19 is considered a multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and the musculoskeletal system manifestations are beginning to be considered of absolute importance in both COVID-19 patients and in patients recovering from the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Musculoskeletal manifestations of COVID-19 and other coronavirus infections include loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, fatigue or myalgia, and muscle injury. The molecular mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 can cause damage to skeletal muscle (SkM) cells are not yet well understood. Sphingolipids (SLs) represent an important class of eukaryotic lipids with structural functions as well as bioactive molecules able to modulate crucial processes, including inflammation and viral infection. In the last two decades, several reports have highlighted the role of SLs in modulating SkM cell differentiation, regeneration, aging, response to insulin, and contraction. This review summarizes the consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection on SkM and the potential involvement of SLs in the tissue responses to virus infection. In particular, we highlight the role of sphingosine 1-phosphate signaling in order to aid the prediction of novel targets for preventing and/or treating acute and long-term musculoskeletal manifestations of virus infection in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Meacci
- Unit of Biochemical Sciences and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 50, 50121 Florence, Italy;
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-055-2751231
| | - Federica Pierucci
- Unit of Biochemical Sciences and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Viale GB Morgagni 50, 50121 Florence, Italy;
| | - Mercedes Garcia-Gil
- Unit of Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via S. Zeno 31, 56127 Pisa, Italy;
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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13
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Alter TH, Helbig T, Chiappetta G. Case report: Multiple sclerosis diagnosis after anterior lumbar interbody fusion and presumed COVID-19 infection. Surg Neurol Int 2022; 13:125. [PMID: 35509573 PMCID: PMC9062911 DOI: 10.25259/sni_192_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that may present with a wide variety of clinical presentations. However, there can be substantial overlap between symptoms from MS and those caused by lumbar spondylosis and/or postviral plexopathies. Case Description: A 33-year-old female with a history of an L5-S1 anterior lumbar interbody fusion and exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus developed postoperative worsening of her symptoms interpreted as “radiculopathy.” Despite a subsequent L5-S1 fusion, she continued to neurologically deteriorate and was ultimately diagnosed with MS. Conclusion: The initial symptoms/signs of MS may mimic lumbar radiculopathy and or postviral plexopathy (i.e., due to recent COVID-19). This report should serve as a warning to future spinal surgeons to better differentiate between radicular and other “complaints,” sufficient to avoid unnecessary repeated spinal surgery.
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14
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Cross AH, Delgado S, Habek M, Davydovskaya M, Ward BJ, Cree BAC, Totolyan N, Pingili R, Mancione L, Hu X, Sullivan R, Su W, Zielman R, Gupta AD, Montalban X, Winthrop K. COVID-19 Outcomes and Vaccination in People with Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis Treated with Ofatumumab. Neurol Ther 2022; 11:741-758. [PMID: 35284994 PMCID: PMC8918079 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-022-00341-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic necessitated better understanding of the impact of disease-modifying therapies on COVID-19 outcomes and vaccination. We report characteristics of COVID-19 cases and vaccination status in ofatumumab-treated relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) patients. Methods COVID-19 data analyzed were from the ongoing, open-label, long-term extension phase 3b ALITHIOS study from December 2019 (pandemic start) and post-marketing cases from August 2020 (ofatumumab first approval) up to 25 September 2021. COVID-19 cases, severity, seriousness, outcomes, vaccination status, and breakthrough infection were evaluated. Results As of 25 September 2021, 245 of 1703 patients (14.4%) enrolled in ALITHIOS receiving ofatumumab (median exposure: 2.45 years) reported COVID-19 (confirmed: 210; suspected: 35). Most COVID-19 was of mild (44.1%) or moderate (46.5%) severity, but 9% had severe/life-threatening COVID-19. There were 24 serious cases (9.8%) with 23 patients hospitalized; 22 recovered and 2 died. At study cut-off, 241 patients (98.4%) had recovered or were recovering or had recovered with sequelae and 2 (0.8%) had not recovered. Ofatumumab was temporarily interrupted in 39 (15.9%) patients. Before COVID-19 onset, IgG levels were within the normal range in all COVID-19–affected patients, while IgM was < 0.4 g/l in 23 (9.4%) patients. No patient had a reinfection. Overall, 559 patients were vaccinated (full, 476; partial, 74; unspecified, 9). Breakthrough infection was reported in 1.5% (7/476) patients, and 11 reported COVID-19 after partial vaccination. As of 25 September 2021, the Novartis Safety Database (~ 4713 patient-treatment years) recorded 90 confirmed COVID-19 cases receiving ofatumumab. Most cases were non-serious (n = 80), and ten were serious (1 medically significant, 9 hospitalized, 0 deaths). Among 36 of 90 cases with outcomes reported, 30 recovered and 6 did not recover. Conclusion COVID-19 in RMS patients on ofatumumab was primarily of mild/moderate severity and non-serious in these observational data. Most recovered from COVID-19 without treatment interruption. Two people died with COVID-19. Breakthrough COVID-19 despite being fully/partially vaccinated was uncommon. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40120-022-00341-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne H Cross
- Department of Neurology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Silvia Delgado
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Mario Habek
- University Hospital Center Zagreb, University of Zagreb, School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maria Davydovskaya
- Moscow State Public Healthcare InsCity Clinical Hospital 24, Moscow, Russia
| | - Brian J Ward
- Infectious Diseases Division, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Bruce A C Cree
- UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Natalia Totolyan
- First Saint Petersburg State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | | | - Linda Mancione
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | - Xixi Hu
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | | | - Wendy Su
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | | | | | - Xavier Montalban
- Department of Neurology-Neuroimmunology, Centre d'Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kevin Winthrop
- School of Public Health at Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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15
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Risk of COVID-19 infection and severe disease in MS patients on different disease-modifying therapies. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 60:103735. [PMID: 35398713 PMCID: PMC8915504 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.103735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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16
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Tornatore C, Wiendl H, Lublin AL, Geertsen SS, Chavin J, Truffinet P, Bar-Or A. Vaccine Response in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis Receiving Teriflunomide. Front Neurol 2022; 13:828616. [PMID: 35295832 PMCID: PMC8918991 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.828616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Many patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) receive disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), such as teriflunomide, to reduce disease activity and slow progression. DMTs mediate their efficacy by modulating or suppressing the immune system, which might affect a patient's response to vaccination. As vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 virus become available, questions have arisen around their efficacy and safety for patients with MS who are receiving DMTs. Data are beginning to emerge regarding the potential influence of certain DMTs on a patient's response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines and are supported by evidence from vaccination studies of other pathogens. This review summarizes the available data on the response to vaccines in patients with MS who are receiving DMTs, with a focus on teriflunomide. It also provides an overview of the leading COVID-19 vaccines and current guidance around COVID-19 vaccination for patients with MS. Though few vaccination studies have been done for this patient population, teriflunomide appears to have minimal influence on the response to seasonal influenza vaccine. The evidence for other DMTs (e.g., fingolimod, glatiramer acetate) is less consistent: some studies suggest no effect of DMTs on vaccine response, whereas others show reduced vaccine efficacy. No unexpected safety signals have emerged in any vaccine study. Current guidance for patients with MS is to continue DMTs during COVID-19 vaccination, though adjusted timing of dosing for some DMTs may improve the vaccine response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Tornatore
- Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Heinz Wiendl
- Department of Neurology With Institute of Translational Neurology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Amit Bar-Or
- Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics and Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- *Correspondence: Amit Bar-Or
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Kantarcioglu B, Iqbal O, Lewis J, Carter CA, Singh M, Lievano F, Ligocki M, Jeske W, Adiguzel C, Gerotziafas GT, Fareed J. An Update on the Status of Vaccine Development for SARS-CoV-2 Including Variants. Practical Considerations for COVID-19 Special Populations. Clin Appl Thromb Hemost 2022; 28:10760296211056648. [PMID: 35167393 PMCID: PMC8851053 DOI: 10.1177/10760296211056648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The progress in the development of various vaccine platforms against SARS-CoV-2 have been rather remarkable owing to advancement in molecular and biologic sciences. Most of the current vaccines and those in development focus on targeting the viral spike proteins by generating antibodies of varying spectrum. These vaccines represent a variety of platforms including whole virus vaccines, viral vector vaccines, nucleic acid vaccines representing RNA, DNA, and their hybrid forms.The therapeutic efficacy of these vaccines varies owing to their pharmacodynamic individualities. COVID-19 variants are capable of inducing different pathologic responses and some of which may be resistant to antibodies generated by current vaccines. The current clinical use of these vaccines has been through emergency use authorization until recently. Moreover, the efficacy and safety of these vaccines have been tested in substantial numbers of individuals but studies in special populations that better reflect the global population are pending results. These specialized populations include young children, immunocompromised patients, pregnant individuals, and other specialized groups. Combination approaches, molecularly modified vaccination approaches, and vaccines conferring longer periods of immunity are being currently being investigated, as well as pharmacovigilance studies.The continual transformation of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants are of concern along with the breakthrough infections. These considerations pose new challenges for the development of vaccination platforms. For this purpose, booster doses, combination vaccine approaches, and other modalities are being discussed. This review provides an updated account of currently available vaccines and those in advanced development with reference to their composition and mechanisms of action.A discussion on the use of vaccines in special populations including immunocompromised patients, pregnant women and other specialized populations are also included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bulent Kantarcioglu
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago, Health Sciences Division, Maywood, IL, USA,Bulent Kantarcioglu, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago, Health Sciences Division, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
| | - Omer Iqbal
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago, Health Sciences Division, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Joseph Lewis
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago, Health Sciences Division, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Charles A. Carter
- Campbell University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC, USA
| | - Meharvan Singh
- Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Walter Jeske
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago, Health Sciences Division, Maywood, IL, USA
| | | | - Grigoris T. Gerotziafas
- Sorbonne Université, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Thrombosis Center, Service D’Hématologie Biologique Hôpital Tenon, Paris, France
| | - Jawed Fareed
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Loyola University Chicago, Health Sciences Division, Maywood, IL, USA
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18
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Paybast S, Hejazi SA, Molavi P, Habibi MA, Moghadasi AN. A one year follow of patients with multiple sclerosis during COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study in Qom province, Iran. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 60:103712. [PMID: 35247752 PMCID: PMC8881292 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.103712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background In the current COVID-19 pandemic, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients represent a population of particular interest as they might be at higher risk of COVID-19 infection and it's complications. The present study aimed to investigate a one year follow up of patients with MS during the COVID-19 pandemic, in Qom province, Iran. Methods This study was performed at the MS Clinic of Beheshti Hospital from June 1, 2020 to November 1, 2021. 202 patients with a diagnosis of MS and negative self-reported history of COVID-19 at the beginning of the pandemic, were enrolled. First, the demographic characteristics of patients were collected. Second, the patients underwent serological testing for anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies. Then, a year later, they were revalauted and asked about the occurrence of clinical relapse leading to hospitalization, disease progression, DMT profile, COVID-19 vaccination, and history of COVID-19 infection. We considered six weeks after COVID-19 regarding relapse occurrence. Eventually, statistical analysis was carried out by using SPSS 26.0 Results Of 202 patients, 26 patients (12.87%) had initially a positive index antibody result. During the follow-up periods, 25 patients (12.37%) were infected with COVID-19 which was mainly mild (74.8%), and significantly lower than general population. 118 patients (58.41%) were vaccinated for COVID-19 which reduced the risk of COVID-19 development (P<001). Except a case of myelitis associated with vaccination, no serious adverse event was reported. Additionally, only one patient developed MS relapse following COVID-19 infection. Except clinical relapse (P = 0.001), other demographic and MS characteristics, and DMT type were not associated with COVID-19. In terms of MS course, 12 patients (5.94%) discontinued their DMTs regardless of the DMT adverse events or treatment failure. 41 patients (20.3%) experienced a clinical relapse, of whom 12 were escalated to a second line DMT. Further, 27 patients (13.4%) noted a history of worsening disability which mainly occurred after COIVD-19 infection. Conclusion The present study showed a significant lower incidence of COVID-19 infection in MS patients. Except for clinical relapse, other demographic and MS characteristics, and DMT type were not associated with COVID-19 infection. In addition, COVID-19 vaccination reduced the risk of COVID-19 development, and the prognosis was favorable in the majority of MS patients.
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19
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COVID-19 outcomes in persons with multiple sclerosis treated with rituximab. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 57:103371. [PMID: 35158435 PMCID: PMC8579699 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.103371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Outcomes of COVID-19 in PwMS (persons with Multiple Sclerosis) on immunosuppressive therapies, particularly B-cell depletors, can be unpredictable. There has been a concern for postponing or avoiding use of Rituximab (RTX) during the COVID-19 pandemic. We report the course and outcomes of COVID-19 in PwMS receiving RTX. Methods PwMS receiving RTX who contracted COVID-19 were closely monitored by tele-consultation and/or evaluated during hospital visits. Those requiring hospitalization for oxygen therapy or admission to ICU or expiring due to COVID-19 were considered to have severe disease. Those without desaturation and manageable at home were considered to have mild disease. Disease course and outcomes were noted. Results Twelve out of 62 (19.4%) PwMS on RTX therapy developed COVID-19. Four (age 35–49 years; mean 43.5) had severe COVID; three of whom had Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS). One PwMS expired. Two had prolonged fever lasting >1 month. One demonstrated features of SARS-CoV-2 reactivation. Interval from last RTX infusion (average dose 750 mg) to COVID-19 onset ranged 1–4 (mean 3.7) months. Eight PwMS had mild COVID-19 (age 26–54 years; mean 37.7); six had RRMS and two SPMS. RTX dose was lower (average dose 625 mg) and infusion to COVID-19 onset duration was longer, ranging 4–20 (mean 9.5) months. Four patients, two each from mild and severe COVID-19 groups had neurological deterioration, but none had true relapses. Conclusion RTX treated PwMS may have unpredictable disease outcomes if they contract COVID-19, but may be at risk of severe disease and persistent infection. In our series higher age, SPMS, shorter interval from RTX infusion to COVID-19 onset and higher dose of RTX were noted amongst those developing severe disease. RTX should be use cautiously during the COVID-19 pandemic and if unavoidable, less frequent and lower doses should be considered. Patients receiving RTX must be counselled to follow strict COVID-19 preventive measures.
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Rieckmann P, Centonze D, Giovannoni G, Hua LH, Oreja-Guevara C, Selchen D, Sørensen PS, Vermersch P, Wiendl H, Salloukh H, Yamout B. Expert opinion on COVID-19 vaccination and the use of cladribine tablets in clinical practice. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2021; 14:17562864211058298. [PMID: 34899987 PMCID: PMC8655448 DOI: 10.1177/17562864211058298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gaps in current evidence and guidance leave clinicians with unanswered questions on the use of cladribine tablets for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular relating to COVID-19 vaccination. OBJECTIVE We describe a consensus-based program led by international MS experts with the aim of supplementing current guidelines and treatment labels by providing timely recommendations relating to COVID-19 vaccination and the use of cladribine tablets in clinical practice. METHODS A steering committee (SC) of 10 international MS experts identified 7 clinical questions to answer concerning the use of cladribine tablets and COVID-19 vaccination, which addressed issues relating to patient selection, timing and efficacy, and safety. Clinical recommendations to address each question were drafted using available evidence combined with expert opinion from the SC. An extended faculty of 28 MS experts, representing 19 countries, in addition to the 10 SC members, voted on the recommendations. Consensus on recommendations was achieved when ⩾75% of respondents expressed an agreement score of 7-9, on a 9-point scale. RESULTS Consensus was achieved on all 13 recommendations. Clinical recommendations are provided on whether all patients with MS receiving cladribine tablets should be vaccinated against COVID-19, and whether they should be prioritized; the timing of vaccination around dosing of cladribine tablets (i.e. before and after a treatment course); and the safety of COVID-19 vaccination for these patients. CONCLUSION These expert recommendations provide timely guidance on COVID-19 vaccination in patients receiving cladribine tablets, which is relevant to everyday clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Rieckmann
- Center for Clinical Neuroplasticity, Medical Park Loipl, Bischofswiesen, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University of Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Diego Centonze
- Unit of Neurology and Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli (IS), Italy
| | - Gavin Giovannoni
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Le H. Hua
- Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Celia Oreja-Guevara
- Neurology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, IdISSC, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Selchen
- Division of Neurology, St. Michael’s Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Per Soelberg Sørensen
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, University of Copenhagen and Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Patrick Vermersch
- Université de Lille, INSERM-U1172, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Fédératif Hospitalo-Universitaire Precise, Lille, France
| | - Heinz Wiendl
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Translational Neurology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Hashem Salloukh
- Ares Trading SA, Eysins, Switzerland (an affiliate of Merck KGaA)
| | - Bassem Yamout
- Neurology Institute, Harley Street Medical Center, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Nehme and Therese Tohme Multiple Sclerosis Center, American University of Beirut, 1107 2020 Beirut, Lebanon
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21
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Bsteh G, Dürauer S, Assar H, Hegen H, Heschl B, Leutmezer F, Pauli FD, Gradl C, Traxler G, Zulehner G, Rommer P, Wipfler P, Guger M, Höftberger R, Enzinger C, Berger T. Humoral immune response after COVID-19 in multiple sclerosis: A nation-wide Austrian study. Mult Scler 2021; 27:2209-2218. [PMID: 34595968 PMCID: PMC8597187 DOI: 10.1177/13524585211049391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge on immunity after SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) and the impact of disease-modifying treatment (DMT) is limited. OBJECTIVE To evaluate degree, duration and potential predictors of specific humoral immune response in pwMS with prior COVID-19. METHODS Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing was performed in pwMS with PCR-confirmed diagnosis of symptomatic COVID-19 from a nation-wide registry. Predictors of seropositivity were identified by multivariate regression models. RESULTS In 125 pwMS (mean age = 42.4 years (SD = 12.3 years), 70% female), anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were detected in 76.0% after a median of 5.2 months from positive PCR. Seropositivity rate was significantly lower in patients on IS-DMT (61.4%, p = 0.001) than without DMT or immunomodulatory DMT (80.6%; 86.0%, respectively). In multivariate analysis, IS-DMT was associated with reduced probability of seropositivity (odds ratio (OR): 0.51; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.17-0.82; p < 0.001). Predefined subgroup analyses showed marked reduction of seropositivity in pwMS on rituximab/ocrelizumab (OR 0.15; 95% CI: 0.05-0.56; p < 0.001). Rate of seropositivity did not change significantly over 6 months. CONCLUSIONS Humoral immunity is stable after SARS-CoV-2 infection in MS, but is reduced by immunosuppressive DMT, particularly anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies. This provides important evidence for advising pwMS as well as for planning and prioritizing vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Bsteh
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sophie Dürauer
- Division of Neuropathology and Neurochemistry, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hamid Assar
- Department of Neurology, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Harald Hegen
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Bettina Heschl
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Fritz Leutmezer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franziska Di Pauli
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christiane Gradl
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of St. Pölten, St. Pölten, Austria
| | - Gerhard Traxler
- Department of Neurology 2, Med Campus III, Kepler University Hospital GmbH, Linz, Austria
| | - Gudrun Zulehner
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paulus Rommer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Wipfler
- Department of Neurology, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Michael Guger
- Department of Neurology 2, Med Campus III, Kepler University Hospital GmbH, Linz, Austria
| | - Romana Höftberger
- Division of Neuropathology and Neurochemistry, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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22
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SARS-CoV2 infection as a potential trigger for severe relapse in a patient with multiple sclerosis who stopped disease modifying treatment due to COVID-19 pandemic. NEUROIMMUNOLOGY REPORTS 2021. [PMCID: PMC8285927 DOI: 10.1016/j.nerep.2021.100005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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23
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Manolis TA, Apostolopoulos EJ, Manolis AA, Melita H, Manolis AS. COVID-19 Infection: A Neuropsychiatric Perspective. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2021; 33:266-279. [PMID: 34280318 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.20110277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
As a potentially life-threatening disease with no definitive treatment and without fully implemented population-wide vaccination, COVID-19 has created unprecedented turmoil in socioeconomic life worldwide. In addition to physical signs from the respiratory and many other systems, the SARS-CoV-2 virus produces a broad range of neurological and neuropsychiatric problems, including olfactory and gustatory impairments, encephalopathy and delirium, stroke and neuromuscular complications, stress reactions, and psychoses. Moreover, the psychosocial impact of the pandemic and its indirect effects on neuropsychiatric health in noninfected individuals in the general public and among health care workers are similarly far-ranging. In addition to acute neuropsychiatric manifestations, COVID-19 may also produce late neuropsychiatric sequelae as a function of the psychoneuroimmunological cascade that it provokes. The present article presents a state-of-the-science review of these issues through an integrative review and synthesis of case series, large-cohort studies, and relevant meta-analyses. Heuristics for evaluation and further study of the neuropsychiatric manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora A Manolis
- Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece (T. A. Manolis); Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom (Apostolopoulos); Patras University School of Medicine, Patras, Greece (A. A. Manolis); Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, Athens, Greece (Melita); and Athens University School of Medicine, Greece (A. S. Manolis)
| | - Evdoxia J Apostolopoulos
- Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece (T. A. Manolis); Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom (Apostolopoulos); Patras University School of Medicine, Patras, Greece (A. A. Manolis); Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, Athens, Greece (Melita); and Athens University School of Medicine, Greece (A. S. Manolis)
| | - Antonis A Manolis
- Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece (T. A. Manolis); Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom (Apostolopoulos); Patras University School of Medicine, Patras, Greece (A. A. Manolis); Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, Athens, Greece (Melita); and Athens University School of Medicine, Greece (A. S. Manolis)
| | - Helen Melita
- Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece (T. A. Manolis); Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom (Apostolopoulos); Patras University School of Medicine, Patras, Greece (A. A. Manolis); Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, Athens, Greece (Melita); and Athens University School of Medicine, Greece (A. S. Manolis)
| | - Antonis S Manolis
- Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece (T. A. Manolis); Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom (Apostolopoulos); Patras University School of Medicine, Patras, Greece (A. A. Manolis); Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, Athens, Greece (Melita); and Athens University School of Medicine, Greece (A. S. Manolis)
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24
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Özkeskin M, Özden F, Karaman B, Ekmekçi Ö, Yüceyar N. The comparison of fatigue, sleep quality, physical activity, quality of life, and psychological status in multiple sclerosis patients with or without COVID-19. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 55:103180. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.msard.2021.103180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
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25
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Rose DR, Mahadeen AZ, Carlson AK, Planchon SM, Sedlak J, Husak S, Bermel RA, Cohen JA, Moss BP. Clinical features and outcomes of COVID-19 despite SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in people with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2021; 7:20552173211057110. [PMID: 34925875 PMCID: PMC8673876 DOI: 10.1177/20552173211057110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have demonstrated reduced serological response to vaccines in patients treated with anti-CD20 agents. However, limited data exist surrounding the clinical effect of disease modifying therapy (DMT) use on vaccine efficacy. OBJECTIVES To investigate breakthrough coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in vaccinated people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) on DMT. METHODS PwMS on DMT diagnosed with COVID-19 after full vaccination were identified from an existing Cleveland Clinic COVID-19 registry, supplemented by provider-identified cases. Demographics, disease history, DMTs, comorbidities, exposures, vaccination status, and COVID-19 outcomes were confirmed by review of the electronic medical record. RESULTS Thirteen (3.8%) of 344 fully vaccinated people with multiple sclerosis on disease modifying therapy were diagnosed with COVID-19 after vaccination. Ten patients (76.9%) were on an anti-CD20 therapy, the remaining 3 (23.1%) on fingolimod. Only 2 patients (15.4%), both on anti-CD20 therapy, required hospitalization and steroid treatment. Neither required Intensive Care Unit admission. CONCLUSION Patients treated with anti-CD20 agents and sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators may still be at risk for COVID-19 despite vaccination. While still at risk for hospitalization, intubation and death from COVID-19 appear rare. Larger studies analyzing how this may differ in the setting of emerging variants are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deja R Rose
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ahmad Z Mahadeen
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Alise K Carlson
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sarah M Planchon
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jennifer Sedlak
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Scott Husak
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Robert A Bermel
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Cohen
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Brandon P Moss
- Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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26
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Monschein T, Hartung HP, Zrzavy T, Barnett M, Boxberger N, Berger T, Chataway J, Bar-Or A, Rommer PS, Zettl UK. Vaccination and multiple sclerosis in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2021; 92:1033-1043. [PMID: 34353858 PMCID: PMC8458056 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2021-326839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Monschein
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hans-Peter Hartung
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria .,Department of Neurology, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tobias Zrzavy
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Barnett
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nina Boxberger
- Department of Neurology, Neuroimmunological Section, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jeremy Chataway
- Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square Multiple Sclerosis Centre, University College London (UCL) Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, UCL; National Institute for Health Research, University College London Hospitals, Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Amit Bar-Or
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neuroinflammation and Experimental Therapeutics, and Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Paulus Stefan Rommer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Neurology, Neuroimmunological Section, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Uwe K Zettl
- Department of Neurology, Neuroimmunological Section, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
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27
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Azimzadeh M, Möhn N, Ghane Ezabadi S, Moghimi Esfandabadi Z, Soleimani A, Ranjbar E, Jahromi M, Seyedebrahimi R, Skripuletz T, Moharrami Kasmaie F. The Immunological Therapeutic Strategies for Controlling Multiple Sclerosis: Considerations during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1372. [PMID: 34572585 PMCID: PMC8470206 DOI: 10.3390/biom11091372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence initially suggested that patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) might be more susceptible to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Moreover, it was speculated that patients with MS treated with immunosuppressive drugs might be at risk to develop a severe diseases course after infection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV2). However, the recently published data have shown that MS patients do not have a higher risk for severe COVID-19. Although there is no indication that patients with MS and immunomodulatory/immunosuppressive therapy are generally at a higher risk of severe COVID-19, it is currently being emphasized that the hazards of poorly treated MS may outweigh the putative COVID-19 dangers. In this review, we discuss the challenges and considerations for MS patients in the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Azimzadeh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran;
| | - Nora Möhn
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Sajjad Ghane Ezabadi
- Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran;
| | | | - Alireza Soleimani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran;
| | - Elaheh Ranjbar
- Department of Paramedical Sciences, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran;
| | - Maliheh Jahromi
- Department of Anatomical Science, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran;
| | - Reihaneh Seyedebrahimi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran;
| | - Thomas Skripuletz
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Farshad Moharrami Kasmaie
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran;
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28
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Kleineberg NN, Knauss S, Gülke E, Pinnschmidt HO, Jakob CEM, Lingor P, Hellwig K, Berthele A, Höglinger G, Fink GR, Endres M, Gerloff C, Klein C, Stecher M, Classen AY, Rieg S, Borgmann S, Hanses F, Rüthrich MM, Hower M, Tometten L, Haselberger M, Piepel C, Merle U, Dolff S, Degenhardt C, Jensen BEO, Vehreschild MJGT, Erber J, Franke C, Warnke C. Neurological symptoms and complications in predominantly hospitalized COVID-19 patients: Results of the European multinational Lean European Open Survey on SARS-Infected Patients (LEOSS). Eur J Neurol 2021; 28:3925-3937. [PMID: 34411383 PMCID: PMC8444823 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background and purpose During acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection, neurological signs, symptoms and complications occur. We aimed to assess their clinical relevance by evaluating real‐world data from a multinational registry. Methods We analyzed COVID‐19 patients from 127 centers, diagnosed between January 2020 and February 2021, and registered in the European multinational LEOSS (Lean European Open Survey on SARS‐Infected Patients) registry. The effects of prior neurological diseases and the effect of neurological symptoms on outcome were studied using multivariate logistic regression. Results A total of 6537 COVID‐19 patients (97.7% PCR‐confirmed) were analyzed, of whom 92.1% were hospitalized and 14.7% died. Commonly, excessive tiredness (28.0%), headache (18.5%), nausea/emesis (16.6%), muscular weakness (17.0%), impaired sense of smell (9.0%) and taste (12.8%), and delirium (6.7%) were reported. In patients with a complicated or critical disease course (53%) the most frequent neurological complications were ischemic stroke (1.0%) and intracerebral bleeding (ICB; 2.2%). ICB peaked in the critical disease phase (5%) and was associated with the administration of anticoagulation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Excessive tiredness (odds ratio [OR] 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20–1.68) and prior neurodegenerative diseases (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.07–1.63) were associated with an increased risk of an unfavorable outcome. Prior cerebrovascular and neuroimmunological diseases were not associated with an unfavorable short‐term outcome of COVID‐19. Conclusion Our data on mostly hospitalized COVID‐19 patients show that excessive tiredness or prior neurodegenerative disease at first presentation increase the risk of an unfavorable short‐term outcome. ICB in critical COVID‐19 was associated with therapeutic interventions, such as anticoagulation and ECMO, and thus may be an indirect complication of a life‐threatening systemic viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina N Kleineberg
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Samuel Knauss
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eileen Gülke
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans O Pinnschmidt
- Institute of Medical Biometry, Epidemiology University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carolin E M Jakob
- Department I for Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner-Site Cologne-Bonn, Cologne, Germany
| | - Paul Lingor
- Department of Neurology, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hellwig
- Department of Neurology, Katholisches Klinikum Bochum, Klinikum der Ruhr Universität, Bochum, Germany
| | - Achim Berthele
- Department of Neurology, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Günter Höglinger
- Department of Neurology with Clinical Neurophysiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
| | - Gereon R Fink
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Matthias Endres
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Center for Stroke Research Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,ExcellenceCluster NeuroCure, Berlin, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Gerloff
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christine Klein
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Luebeck and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Luebeck, Germany
| | - Melanie Stecher
- Department I for Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner-Site Cologne-Bonn, Cologne, Germany
| | - Annika Y Classen
- Department I for Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner-Site Cologne-Bonn, Cologne, Germany
| | - Siegbert Rieg
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine II, Medical Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Borgmann
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Ingolstadt Hospital, Ingolstadt, Germany
| | - Frank Hanses
- Emergency Department, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.,Department of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Maria M Rüthrich
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Hematology and Medical Oncology, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany.,Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans-Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Martin Hower
- Department of Internal Medicine, Klinikum Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Lukas Tometten
- Department I for Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Christiane Piepel
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Hospital Bremen Central, Bremen, Germany
| | - Uta Merle
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Dolff
- Department of Infectious Diseases, West German Centre of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Björn-Erik O Jensen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Maria J G T Vehreschild
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Johanna Erber
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine, University Hospital Rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany
| | - Christiana Franke
- Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Clemens Warnke
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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29
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Money KM, Mahatoo A, Samaan S, Anand P, Baber U, Bailey M, Bakshi R, Bouley A, Bower A, Cahill J, Houtchens M, Katz J, Lathi E, Levit E, Longbrake EE, McAdams M, Napoli S, Raibagkar P, Wade P, Sloane JA. A New England COVID-19 Registry of Patients With CNS Demyelinating Disease: A Pilot Analysis. NEUROLOGY-NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2021; 8:8/5/e1046. [PMID: 34341094 PMCID: PMC8362350 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000001046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES We sought to define the risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection requiring hospitalization in patients with CNS demyelinating diseases such as MS and the factors that increase the risk for severe infection to guide decisions regarding patient care during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A pilot cohort of 91 patients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection from the Northeastern United States was analyzed to characterize patient risk factors and factors associated with an increased severity of COVID-19 infection. Univariate analysis of variance was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test or analysis of variance for continuous variables and the χ2 or Fisher exact test for nominal variables. Univariate and stepwise multivariate logistic regression identified clinical characteristics or symptoms associated with hospitalization. RESULTS Our cohort demonstrated a 27.5% hospitalization rate and a 4.4% case fatality rate. Performance on Timed 25-Foot Walk before COVID-19 infection, age, number of comorbidities, and presenting symptoms of nausea/vomiting and neurologic symptoms (e.g., paresthesia or weakness) were independent risk factors for hospitalization, whereas headache predicted a milder course without hospitalization. An absolute lymphocyte count was lower in hospitalized patients during COVID-19 infection. Use of disease-modifying therapy did not increase the risk of hospitalization but was associated with an increased need for respiratory support. DISCUSSION The case fatality and hospitalization rates in our cohort were similar to those found in MS and general population COVID-19 cohorts within the region. Hospitalization was associated with increased disability, age, and comorbidities but not disease-modifying therapy use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelli M Money
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Ashmanie Mahatoo
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Soleil Samaan
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Pria Anand
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Ursela Baber
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Mary Bailey
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Rohit Bakshi
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Andrew Bouley
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Aaron Bower
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Jonathan Cahill
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Maria Houtchens
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Joshua Katz
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Ellen Lathi
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Elle Levit
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Erin E Longbrake
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Matthew McAdams
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Salvatore Napoli
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Pooja Raibagkar
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Peter Wade
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH
| | - Jacob A Sloane
- From the Department of Neurology (K.M.M., A.M., S.S., U.B., J.A.S.), Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston; Department of Neurology (P.A.), Boston University School of Medicine, MA; The Mandell Comprehensive MS Center (M.B., P.W.), Hartford, CT; Department of Neurology (R.B., M.H.), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston; The Elliot Lewis Center (A. Bouley, J.K., E. Lathi), Wellesley, MA; Department of Neurology (A. Bower, E. Levit, E.E.L.), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Neurology (J.C.), Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI; Department of Neurology (M.M.), Lahey Hospital, Burlington; Neurology Center of New England (S.N.), Foxboro, MA; and Department of Neurology (P.R.), Concord Hospital, Concord, NH.
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Pawlitzki M, Meuth SG. Immunmodulatorische Therapien bei Multipler Sklerose in der Pandemie. INFO NEUROLOGIE + PSYCHIATRIE 2021. [PMCID: PMC8373422 DOI: 10.1007/s15005-021-2009-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Pawlitzki
- des UniversitätsklinikumMünster, Institut für translationale Neurologie, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Sven G. Meuth
- Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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Özkeskin M, Özden F, Karaman B, Ekmekçi Ö, Yüceyar N. The comparison of fatigue, sleep quality, physical activity, quality of life, and psychological status in multiple sclerosis patients with or without COVID-19. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 55:103180. [PMID: 34352513 PMCID: PMC8324500 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.103180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The study was purposed to investigate the effect of COVID-19 disease on fatigue, sleep quality, physical activity, quality of life, and psychological status in people with MS. Methods A total of 104 people with MS, including 46 of them with COVID-19 disease history, were enrolled in the study. All patients were evaluated with the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF), the EuroQoL Instrument (EQ-5D-3L), the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS). Results People with MS in the COVID-19 positive group had a significantly lower IPAQ-Total score (p = 0.014). Besides, the FCV-19S scores of COVID-19 positive patients were significantly higher (p = 0.006). EQ-5D-3L Index and EQ-5D-3L VAS scores were higher in the group with COVID-19 (p1 = 0.021, p2 = 0.014, respectively). FCV-19S had a moderate correlation with EDSS (r = -0.362). IPAQ-Total was moderately associated with MS duration, EDSS and FSS (r1 = -0.471, r2 = -0.389, r3 = -0.388, respectively). The EQ-5D-3L Index was moderately correlated with FSS (r1 = -0.404). There was a weakly significant relationship between EQ-5D-3L Index and BMI, MS duration, PSQI and CAS (r1 = -0.471, r2 =-0.389, r3 = -0.388, r4 = -0.326, respectively). On the other hand, EQ-5D-3L was moderately associated with VAS and EDSS and PSQI (r1 = -0.393, r2 = -0.357, respectively). Conclusion COVID-19 negatively affected the people with MS's physical activity and coronavirus related fear parameters. However, the causality of this influence should be investigated in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Özkeskin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Ege University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Fatih Özden
- Köyceğiz Vocational School of Health Services, Department of Health Care Services, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Bedriye Karaman
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Ege University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Özgül Ekmekçi
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Ege University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Nur Yüceyar
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Ege University, İzmir, Turkey.
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Bsteh G, Assar H, Hegen H, Heschl B, Leutmezer F, Di Pauli F, Gradl C, Traxler G, Zulehner G, Rommer P, Wipfler P, Guger M, Enzinger C, Berger T. COVID-19 severity and mortality in multiple sclerosis are not associated with immunotherapy: Insights from a nation-wide Austrian registry. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255316. [PMID: 34314457 PMCID: PMC8315529 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic challenges neurologists in counselling patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) regarding their risk by SARS-CoV-2 and in guiding disease-modifying treatment (DMT). OBJECTIVE To characterize the prevalence and outcome of COVID-19 in pwMS specifically associated with different DMT in a nationwide population-based study. METHODS We included patients aged ≥18 years with a confirmed diagnosis of MS and a diagnosis of COVID-19 established between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020. We classified COVID-19 course as either mild, severe or fatal. Impact of DMT and specifically immunosuppressants (alemtuzumab, cladribine, fingolimod, ocrelizumab or rituximab) on COVID-19 outcome was determined by multivariable models, adjusted for a-priori-risk. RESULTS Of 126 MS patients with COVID-19 (mean age 43.2 years [SD 13.4], 71% female), 86.5% had a mild course, 9.5% a severe course and 3.2% died from COVID-19. A-priori-risk significantly predicted COVID-19 severity (R2 0.814; p<0.001) and mortality (R2 0.664; p<0.001). Adjusting for this a-priori-risk, neither exposure to any DMT nor exposure to specific immunosuppressive DMT were significantly associated with COVID-19 severity (odds ratio [OR] 1.6; p = 0.667 and OR 1.9; p = 0.426) or mortality (OR 0.5; p = 0.711 and 2.1; 0.233) when compared to no DMT. CONCLUSIONS In a population-based MS cohort, COVID-19 outcome was not associated with exposure to DMT and immunosuppressive DMT when accounting for other already known risk factors. This provides reassuring evidence that COVID-19 risk can be individually anticipated in MS and-except for a very small proportion of high-risk patients-treatment decisions should be primarily focused on treating MS rather than the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Bsteh
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- * E-mail:
| | - Hamid Assar
- Department of Neurology, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Harald Hegen
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Bettina Heschl
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Fritz Leutmezer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franziska Di Pauli
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christiane Gradl
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of St. Pölten, St. Pölten, Austria
| | - Gerhard Traxler
- Department of Neurology 2, Med Campus III, Kepler University Hospital GmbH, Linz, Austria
| | - Gudrun Zulehner
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Paulus Rommer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Wipfler
- Department of Neurology, Paracelsus Medical University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Michael Guger
- Department of Neurology 2, Med Campus III, Kepler University Hospital GmbH, Linz, Austria
| | | | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Rolfes L, Pawlitzki M, Pfeuffer S, Nelke C, Lux A, Pul R, Kleinschnitz C, Kleinschnitz K, Rogall R, Pape K, Bittner S, Zipp F, Warnke C, Goereci Y, Schroeter M, Ingwersen J, Aktas O, Klotz L, Ruck T, Wiendl H, Meuth SG. Ocrelizumab Extended Interval Dosing in Multiple Sclerosis in Times of COVID-19. NEUROLOGY-NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2021; 8:8/5/e1035. [PMID: 34261812 PMCID: PMC8362352 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000001035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the clinical consequences of extended interval dosing (EID) of ocrelizumab in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods In our retrospective, multicenter cohort study, we compared patients with RRMS on EID (defined as ≥4-week delay of dose interval) with a control group on standard interval dosing (SID) at the same period (January to December 2020). Results Three hundred eighteen patients with RRMS were longitudinally evaluated in 5 German centers. One hundred sixteen patients received ocrelizumab on EID (median delay [interquartile range 8.68 [5.09–13.07] weeks). Three months after the last ocrelizumab infusion, 182 (90.1%) patients following SID and 105 (90.5%) EID patients remained relapse free (p = 0.903). Three-month confirmed progression of disability was observed in 18 SID patients (8.9%) and 11 EID patients (9.5%, p = 0.433). MRI progression was documented in 9 SID patients (4.5%) and 8 EID patients (6.9%) at 3-month follow-up (p = 0.232). Multivariate logistic regression showed no association between treatment regimen and no evidence of disease activity status at follow-up (OR: 1.266 [95% CI: 0.695–2.305]; p = 0.441). Clinical stability was accompanied by persistent peripheral CD19+ B-cell depletion in both groups (SID vs EID: 82.6% vs 83.3%, p = 0.463). Disease activity in our cohort was not associated with CD19+ B-cell repopulation. Conclusion Our data support EID of ocrelizumab as potential risk mitigation strategy in times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Classification of Evidence This study provides Class IV evidence that for patients with RRMS, an EID of at least 4 weeks does not diminish effectiveness of ocrelizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leoni Rolfes
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Marc Pawlitzki
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Steffen Pfeuffer
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Christopher Nelke
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Anke Lux
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Refik Pul
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Christoph Kleinschnitz
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Konstanze Kleinschnitz
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Rebeca Rogall
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Katrin Pape
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefan Bittner
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Frauke Zipp
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Clemens Warnke
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Yasemin Goereci
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Michael Schroeter
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Jens Ingwersen
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Orhan Aktas
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Luisa Klotz
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Tobias Ruck
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Heinz Wiendl
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Sven G Meuth
- From the Department of Neurology with Institute of Translational Neurology (L.R., M.P., S.P., C.N., L.K., H.W.), University Hospital Muenster, Germany; Institute for Biometrics and Bioinformatic (A.L.), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; Department for Neurology (R.P., C.K., K.K., R.R.), University Hospital Essen, Germany; Focus Program Translational Neurosciences (FTN) and Immunology (FZI) (K.P., S.B., F.Z.), Rhine Main Neuroscience Network (rmn2), Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany; Department of Neurology (C.W., Y.G., M.S.), University Hospital Cologne, Germany; and Department of Neurology (J.I., O.A., T.R., S.G.M.), Heinrich-Heine University, Duesseldorf, Germany.
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Monschein T, Zrzavy T, Löbermann M, Winkelmann A, Berger T, Rommer P, Hartung HP, Zettl UK. [The corona pandemic and multiple sclerosis: vaccinations and their implications for patients-Part 1: recommendations]. DER NERVENARZT 2021; 92:1276-1282. [PMID: 34232359 PMCID: PMC8261803 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-021-01155-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is a global health crisis. New challenges are constantly emerging especially for the healthcare system, not least with the emergence of various viral mutations. Given the variety of immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive therapies for multiple sclerosis (MS) and the immense developments in vaccine production, there is a high need of information for people with MS. The aim of this article is therefore to provide an overview of MS and COVID-19 as well as to clarify the implications for patients with MS, especially regarding vaccination and to formulate appropriate recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Monschein
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich.
| | - Tobias Zrzavy
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Micha Löbermann
- Abteilung für Tropenmedizin und Infektionskrankheiten, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Alexander Winkelmann
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Thomas Berger
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Paulus Rommer
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich.,Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Neuroimmunologische Sektion, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Hans-Peter Hartung
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich. .,Klinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Medizinische Fakultät, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Deutschland.
| | - Uwe K Zettl
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Neuroimmunologische Sektion, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland
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Coyle PK, Gocke A, Vignos M, Newsome SD. Vaccine Considerations for Multiple Sclerosis in the COVID-19 Era. Adv Ther 2021; 38:3550-3588. [PMID: 34075554 PMCID: PMC8169434 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-021-01761-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) are at risk for infections that can result in amplification of baseline symptoms and possibly trigger clinical relapses. Vaccination can prevent infection through the activation of humoral and cellular immune responses. This is particularly pertinent in the era of emerging novel vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). MS disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), which affect the immune system, may impact immune responses to COVID-19 vaccines in people with MS. The objective of this article is to provide information on immune system responses to vaccinations and review previous studies of vaccine responses in people with MS to support the safety and importance of receiving currently available and emerging COVID-19 vaccines. Immunological studies have shown that coordinated interactions between T and B lymphocytes of the adaptive immune system are key to successful generation of immunological memory and production of neutralizing antibodies following recognition of vaccine antigens by innate immune cells. CD4+ T cells are essential to facilitate CD8+ T cell and B cell activation, while B cells drive and sustain T cell memory. Data suggest that some classes of DMT, including type 1 interferons and glatiramer acetate, may not significantly impair the response to vaccination. DMTs-such as sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulators, which sequester lymphocytes from circulation; alemtuzumab; and anti-CD20 therapies, which rely on depleting populations of immune cells-have been shown to attenuate responses to conventional vaccines. Currently, three COVID-19 vaccines have been granted emergency use authorization in the USA on the basis of promising interim findings of ongoing trials. Because analyses of these vaccines in people with MS are not available, decisions regarding COVID-19 vaccination and DMT choice should be informed by data and expert consensus, and personalized with considerations for disease burden, risk of infection, and other factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia K Coyle
- Department of Neurology, Stony Brook University Medical Center, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | | | - Megan Vignos
- Biogen, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- US Medical MS Franchise and Interferons, Biogen, 133 Boston Post Rd, Weston, MA, 20493, USA.
| | - Scott D Newsome
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Stastna D, Menkyova I, Drahota J, Mazouchova A, Adamkova J, Ampapa R, Grunermelova M, Peterka M, Recmanova E, Rockova P, Rous M, Stetkarova I, Valis M, Vachova M, Woznicova I, Horakova D. Multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and COVID-19: A pandemic year in Czechia. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 54:103104. [PMID: 34216998 PMCID: PMC8223114 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.103104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background When the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) appeared, concerns about its course in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) arose. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence, severity and risk factors of the more severe COVID-19 course among MS and NMOSD patients. Methods From March 1, 2020, to February 28, 2021, 12 MS centres, representing 70% of the Czech MS and NMOSD population, reported laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases via the Czech nationwide register of MS and NMOSD patients (ReMuS). The main outcome was COVID-19 severity assessed on an 8-point scale with a cut-off at 4 (radiologically confirmed pneumonia) according to the World Health Organisation´s (WHO) COVID-19 severity assessment. Results We identified 958 MS and 13 NMOSD patients, 50 MS and 4 NMOSD patients had pneumonia, 3 MS and 2 NMOSD patients died. The incidence of COVID-19 among patients with MS seems to be similar to the general Czech population. A multivariate logistic regression determined that higher body mass index (BMI [OR 1.07, 95% CI, 1.00-1.14]), older age (OR per 10 years 2.01, 95% CI, 1.41-2.91), high-dose glucocorticoid treatment during the 2 months before COVID-19 onset (OR 2.83, 95% CI, 0.10-7.48) and anti-CD20 therapy (OR 7.04, 95% CI, 3.10-15.87) were independent variables associated with pneumonia in MS patients. Increase odds of pneumonia in anti-CD20 treated MS patients compared to patients with other disease-modifying therapy (same age, sex, BMI, high-dose glucocorticoid treatment during the 2 months before COVID-19 onset, presence of pulmonary comorbidity) were confirmed by propensity score matching (OR 8.90, 95% CI, 3.04-33.24). Reports on COVID-19 infection in patients with NMOSD are scarce, however, data available up to now suggest a high risk of a more severe COVID-19 course as well as a higher mortality rate among NMOSD patients. In our cohort, 4 NMOSD patients (30.77%) had the more severe COVID-19 course and 2 patients (15.39%) died. Conclusion : The majority of MS patients had a mild COVID-19 course contrary to NMOSD patients, however, higher BMI and age, anti-CD20 therapy and high-dose glucocorticoid treatment during the 2 months before COVID-19 onset were associated with pneumonia. Based on this study, we have already started an early administration of anti-SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibodies and preferential vaccination in the risk group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Stastna
- Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Ingrid Menkyova
- Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia; 2nd Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | | | - Aneta Mazouchova
- Endowment Fund IMPULS, Prague, Czechia; Department of Economic Statistics, Prague University of Economics and Business, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jana Adamkova
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Ceske Budejovice, Ceske Budejovice, Czechia
| | - Radek Ampapa
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Jihlava, Jihlava, Czechia
| | | | - Marek Peterka
- Department of Neurology, Charles University in Prague, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen and University Hospital Pilsen, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Eva Recmanova
- Department of Neurology, Tomas Bata Regional Hospital, Zlin, Czechia
| | - Petra Rockova
- Department of Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Matous Rous
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Palacky University and University Hospital Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia
| | - Ivana Stetkarova
- Charles University in Prague, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Valis
- Department of Neurology, Charles University in Prague, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czechia
| | - Marta Vachova
- Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia; Department of Neurology, KZ a.s., Hospital Teplice, Teplice, Czechia
| | - Ivana Woznicova
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Dana Horakova
- Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia.
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Obesity and Multiple Sclerosis-A Multifaceted Association. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10122689. [PMID: 34207197 PMCID: PMC8234028 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10122689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the common elements in the pathophysiological theories that try to explain the appearance and evolution of obesity and multiple sclerosis, the association between the two pathologies has become an increasingly researched topic in recent years. On the one hand, there is the chronic demyelinating inflammation caused by the autoimmune cascade of multiple sclerosis, while on the other hand, according to the latest research, it has been shown that obesity shares an inflammatory component with most chronic diseases. METHODS The authors performed independent research of the available literature in the most important electronic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Science Direct) in February 2021. After applying the exclusion criteria, the reviewers focused on the most relevant articles published during the last 10 years with respect to epidemiology and pathophysiology. RESULTS The data presented are a step forward in trying to elucidate the intricate relationship between obesity and MS, especially the causal relationship between childhood and adolescent obesity and MS, focusing on the epidemiological associations observed in the most relevant observational studies conducted in recent years. In the second part, the authors comment on the latest findings related to the pathophysiological mechanisms that may explain the correlations between obesity and multiple sclerosis, focusing also on the role of adipokines. CONCLUSIONS Based on available epidemiological data, obesity in early life appears to be strongly associated with a higher risk of MS development, independent of other risk factors. Although much research has been done on the pathophysiology of obesity, MS, their possible common mechanism, and the role of adipokines, further studies are needed in order to explain what remains unknown. No relevant data were found regarding the association between obesity, disability (high EDSS score), and mortality risk in MS patients. Thus, we consider that this topic should be elucidated in future research.
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Inshasi J, Alroughani R, Al-Asmi A, Alkhaboury J, Alsalti A, Boshra A, Canibano B, Deleu D, Ahmed SF, Shatila A, Thakre M. Expert Consensus and Narrative Review on the Management of Multiple Sclerosis in the Arabian Gulf in the COVID-19 Era: Focus on Disease-Modifying Therapies and Vaccination Against COVID-19. Neurol Ther 2021; 10:1-17. [PMID: 34155473 PMCID: PMC8209665 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-021-00260-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This article describes consensus recommendations from an expert group of neurologists from the Arabian Gulf region on the management of relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) in the COVID-19 era. MS appears not to be a risk factor for severe adverse COVID-19 outcomes (though patients with advanced disability or a progressive phenotype are at higher risk). Disease-modifying therapy (DMT)-based care appears generally safe for patients with MS who develop COVID-19 (although there may be an increased risk of adverse outcomes with anti-CD20 therapy). Interferon-β, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab and cladribine tablets are unlikely to increase the risk of infection; fingolimod, anti-CD20 agents and alemtuzumab may confer an intermediate risk. Existing DMT therapy should be continued at this time. For patients requiring initiation of a DMT, all currently available DMTs except alemtuzumab can be started safely at this time; initiate alemtuzumab subject to careful individual risk-benefit considerations. Patients should receive vaccination against COVID-19 where possible, with no interruption of existing DMT-based care. There is no need to alter the administration of interferon-β, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab, fingolimod or cladribine tablets for vaccination; new starts on other DMTs should be delayed for up to 6 weeks after completion of vaccination to allow the immune response to develop. Doses of the Oxford University/AstraZeneca vaccine may be scheduled around doses of anti-CD20 or alemtuzumab. Where white cell counts are suppressed by treatment, these should be allowed to recover before vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihad Inshasi
- Neurology Department, Rashid Hospital and Dubai Medical College, Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Dubai, UAE
| | - Raed Alroughani
- Department of Medicine, Amiri Hospital, Sharq, Kuwait
- Division of Neurological, Department of Medicine, Amiri Hospital, Arabian Gulf Street, 13001 Sharq, Kuwait
| | - Abdullah Al-Asmi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Neurology Unit, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
- Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Jaber Alkhaboury
- Neurology Department, Khoula Hospital, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Abdullah Alsalti
- Neurology Department, Khoula Hospital, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Amir Boshra
- Merck Serono Middle East FZ Ltd, Dubai, UAE
- An Affiliate of Merck KgaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Beatriz Canibano
- Department of Neurology (Neuroscience Institute), Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Dirk Deleu
- Department of Neurology, Ibn Sina Hospital, Kuwait city, Kuwait
| | - Samar Farouk Ahmed
- Department of Neurology, Ibn Sina Hospital, Kuwait city, Kuwait
- Minia University, Minya, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Shatila
- Neurology Department, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mona Thakre
- Neurology Department, Al Zahra Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Piñar Morales R, Ramírez Rivas MA, Barrero Hernández FJ. SARS-CoV-2 infection and seroprevalence in patients with multiple sclerosis. NEUROLOGÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2021; 36:698-703. [PMID: 34103271 PMCID: PMC8166535 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2021.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and the influence of disease-modifying therapies (DMT) for MS on COVID-19 are unknown. To date, patients with MS have not been shown to present greater risk of COVID-19 or more severe progression of the disease. Methods We performed a descriptive study of patients with MS presenting SARS-CoV-2 infection diagnosed with PCR. We analysed demographic, clinical, laboratory, and treatment variables in our sample. Presence of antibodies against the virus was also determined. Results Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) was the most frequent form of MS in our sample. Prognosis was unfavourable in 10.2% of patients, and was associated with older age and higher scores on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 was 83.3% in our sample. Development of antibodies was not associated with DMT, lymphocytopaenia, or any of the other variables analysed. Conclusions The incidence of COVID-19 was slightly higher in our sample than in the general population in our province. Unfavourable prognosis was associated with older age and higher EDSS scores. DMT and lymphocytopaenia did not influence the clinical course of COVID-19. Seroprevalence of antibodies against the virus in our sample was similar to that reported for the general population with positive PCR results for the virus; the influence of specific DMTs could not be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Piñar Morales
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario Clínico San Cecilio, Granada, Spain
| | - M A Ramírez Rivas
- Hospital de Día Medico, Hospital Universitario Clínico San Cecilio, Granada, Spain
| | - F J Barrero Hernández
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario Clínico San Cecilio, Granada, Spain; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Treatments targeting B cells are increasingly used for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). We review the mechanisms of action, clinical effectiveness and safety of treatment, with emphasis on recently published studies. RECENT FINDINGS Several monoclonal antibodies targeting the surface molecule CD20 on B cells are approved or being developed for treatment of MS. Overall, they seem comparable in terms of strongly suppressing radiological disease activity and relapse biology. Novel approaches include anti-CD19 antibody therapy and treatment with oral drugs targeting Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK). The main safety issue with persistent B cell depletion is an increased risk of infections - possibly including an increased risk of severe COVID-19. Vaccine responses are also blunted in patients treated with anti-CD20 antibodies. Lower doses or longer infusion intervals may be sufficient for control of disease activity. Whether this might also improve the safety of treatment and increase vaccination responses remains to be determined. SUMMARY Available data support the widespread use of therapies targeting B cells in MS. Whether novel approaches targeting CD19 or BTK will have advantages compared to anti-CD20 antibody therapy remains to be established. Furthermore, trials investigating alternative dosing regimens for anti-CD20 antibody treatment are warranted.
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Esmaeili S, Abbasi MH, Abolmaali M, Mojtahed M, Alavi SNR, Soleimani S, Mokhtari M, Hatam J, Khotbehsara ST, Motamed MR, Joghataei MT, Mirzaasgari Z, Moghaddasi M. Rituximab and risk of COVID-19 infection and its severity in patients with MS and NMOSD. BMC Neurol 2021; 21:183. [PMID: 33933026 PMCID: PMC8087518 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-021-02218-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Choosing a safe disease modifying therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic is challenging. This case series study was conducted to determine the incidence rate and the course of Covid-19 infection in MS/NMOSD patients treated with Rituximab. METHODS In this study, we designed a web-based questionnaire. Baseline information such as patient- reported walking disability, total number of Rituximab infusions received, delayed injections, occurrence of any relapse, and the use of corticosteroids during the pandemic were collected. Also, information regarding the Covid-19 pandemic such as adherence to self-isolation, any recent exposure to an infected individual and the presence of suggestive symptoms were collected. In case of positive test results, patients were grouped into 2 categories; mild to moderate and seriously ill and outcomes were evaluated as favorable (improved/ discharged) and unfavorable (expired). RESULTS Two hundred fifty-eight patients with Multiple Sclerosis were enrolled in this study, 9 of the subjects (3.4%) were confirmed positive for Covid-19, five of which required hospitalizations (55.5%), two patients required ICU admission (22.2%) and 2 two patients died (22.2%). None of these patients ever mentioned using corticosteroids during the pandemic. In comparison to MS patients who were not receiving disease modifying therapy (DMT), our study indicated a higher incidence of Covid-19 infection, higher ratio of serious illness and a higher fatality ratio. CONCLUSIONS Rituximab seems not to be safe enough during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Esmaeili
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran university of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
- School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neurology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Abbasi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran university of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
- School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neurology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Abolmaali
- Department of Neurology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mojtahed
- School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neurology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Sevim Soleimani
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti Medical University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahisa Mokhtari
- Department of Neurology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jaber Hatam
- Department of Neurosurgery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Mohammad Taghi Joghataei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran university of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
- School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Mirzaasgari
- Department of Neurology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Moghaddasi
- Department of Neurology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Oksbjerg NR, Nielsen SD, Blinkenberg M, Magyari M, Sellebjerg F. Anti-CD20 antibody therapy and risk of infection in patients with demyelinating diseases. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 52:102988. [PMID: 33979772 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.102988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-CD20 antibody therapy may be associated with an increased risk of infections. We therefore investigated risk factors for infection in patients with demyelinating diseases treated with anti-CD20 antibody therapy. METHODS In this retrospective uncontrolled study, patients ever treated with anti-CD20 antibodies at an academic clinic were identified through the Danish Multiple Sclerosis Registry (DMSR). Data were collected from medical charts and the DMSR. We assessed occurrence of severe infections (requiring hospitalization), varicella zoster virus (VZV), major comorbidities and routine laboratory values for lymphocytes, IgG and IgM. RESULTS A total of 447 patients ever treated with anti-CD20 antibody therapy were identified; of these 416 with 649 patient years of follow-up were still under therapy. In this group, seven patients had VZV infections, and 16 patients had been hospitalized with infections during up to three years of follow-up on anti-CD20 therapy. Comorbidity was recorded in 80 patients. The risk of severe infection was associated with comorbidities, higher age, longer duration of treatment, and higher Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores. In multivariable analyses treatment duration, EDSS scores and presence of comorbidity were independently associated with risk of severe infections. Serum concentrations of IgG and IgM decreased with increasing duration of therapy but were not associated with risk of severe infections. Patients with VZV infection had lower lymphocyte counts and lower serum concentrations of IgM. In multivariable analyses only lymphocyte counts were independently associated with risk of VZV infection. CONCLUSIONS In this retrospective study of patients treated with anti-CD20 antibodies, the risk of infections requiring hospitalization was independently associated with comorbidities, duration of treatment, and higher EDSS scores. Risk of VZV infection was independently associated with lymphopenia. Future studies investigating strategies for mitigating risk of infection in patients treated with anti-CD20 antibodies are warranted, especially for older patients, patients with higher levels of disability and for patients with a longer duration of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- N R Oksbjerg
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - S D Nielsen
- Department of Infectious Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M Blinkenberg
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - M Magyari
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; The Danish Multiple Sclerosis Registry, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - F Sellebjerg
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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The course of COVID-19 infection in patients with multiple sclerosis-The experience of one center based on the population of Upper Silesia. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 52:102984. [PMID: 34000683 PMCID: PMC8080501 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.102984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background It is suspected that patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) are at greater risk for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection due to disability and immunotherapy. The relationship between MS and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is uncertain. The aim of the study was to collect and analyze this relationship. Methods All MS patients of the Neurological Outpatient Clinic in Zabrze, Poland, were regularly questioned for the symptoms of COVID-19 and contact with an infected person. Patients that presented with COVID-19 symptoms or confirmed contact with an infected person were referred for the COVID-19 test. All patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection (n = 41) were included in the analysis. Medical records of the study group were analyzed. Patient condition was monitored in the outpatient clinic after recovery. In 26 subjects, additional examinations, including brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electroneurography (ENG), electroencephalography (EEG), color duplex Doppler (CDD), visual evoked potentials (VEPs), brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs) and psychological assessment were performed following recovery. Results Only one patient required hospitalization during COVID-19 infection, whereas 87.80% of patients did not require treatment for COVID-19. In all patients, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were below 10 mg/L. In 2.44% of patients, oxygen partial pressure was below 95%. In most MS patients, the results of further examinations after COVID-19 infection were similar to those prior to infection. Psychological assessment revealed that anxiety was found in 42.31% of patients. Conclusions A mild course of COVID-19 in MS patients seems common despite disease-modifying drug treatment and disability. Self-isolation is recommended to reduce the number of infected patients. COVID-19 infection did not worsen the course of MS in most subjects. Patients with MS may require additional psychological support during the pandemic due to their susceptibility to anxiety.
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The outcome of a national MS-Covid-19 study: What the Turkish MS cohort reveals? Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 52:102968. [PMID: 33940495 PMCID: PMC8053402 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.102968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background The pandemic of the new type of corona virus infection 2019 [Covid-19] also affect people with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS). Currently, the accumulating information on the effects of the infection regarding the demographic and clinical characteristics of the disease, as well as outcomes within different DMTs¸ enable us to have better practices on the management of the Covid-19 infection in pwMS. Objective To investigate the incidence of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) and to reveal the relationship between the demographic-clinical and therapeutic features and the outcome of Covid-19 infection in a multi-center national cohort of pwMS. Methods The Turkish Neurological Society-MS Study Group in association with the Italian MuSC-19 Study Group initiated this study. A web-based electronic Case Report Form (eCRF) of Study-MuSC-19 were used to collect the data. The demographic data and MS histories of the patients were obtained from the file tracking forms of the relevant clinics. Results 309 MS patients with confirmed Covid-19 infection were included in this study. Two hundred nineteen (219) were females (70.9%). The mean age was 36.9, ranging from 18 to 66, 194 of them (62.8%) were under 40. The clinical phenotype was relapsing-remitting in 277 (89.6%) and progressive in 32 (10.4%). Disease duration ranged from 0.2 years to 31.4 years. The median EDSS was 1.5, ranging from 0 to 8.5. The EDSS score was<= 1 in 134 (43%) of the patients. 91.6% of the patients were on a DMT, Fingolimod was the most frequently used drug (22.0%), followed by Interferon (20.1%). The comorbidity rate is 11.7%. We were not able to detect any significant association of DMTs with Covid-19 severity. Conclusion The Turkish MS-Covid-19 cohort had confirmed that pwMS are not at risk of having a more severe COVID-19 outcome irrespective of the DMT that they are treated. In addition, due to being a younger population with less comorbidities most had a mild disease further highlight that the only associated risk factors for having a moderate to severe COVID-19 course are similar with the general population such as having comorbid conditions and being older.
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Bagnato F, Wallin M. COVID-19 Vaccine in Veterans with Multiple Sclerosis: Protect the Vulnerable. Fed Pract 2021; 38:S28-S32. [PMID: 34177237 PMCID: PMC8221823 DOI: 10.12788/fp.0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Older veterans with progressive MS and associated comorbidities are at higher risk of death should they be infected by COVID-19 and we urge health care providers to educate every veteran about the benefits of being vaccinated against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Bagnato
- is the Associate Director of Research of the Multiple Sclerosis Center of Excellence East (MSCoE-East); a Neurologist at Nashville Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC), and an Assistant Professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee. is the Director of the MSCoE-East; a Neurologist at the Washington VAMC, and an Associate Professor at George Washington University in Washington, DC
| | - Mitchell Wallin
- is the Associate Director of Research of the Multiple Sclerosis Center of Excellence East (MSCoE-East); a Neurologist at Nashville Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC), and an Assistant Professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Tennessee. is the Director of the MSCoE-East; a Neurologist at the Washington VAMC, and an Associate Professor at George Washington University in Washington, DC
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Al Jumah M, Abulaban A, Aggad H, Al Bunyan R, AlKhawajah M, Al Malik Y, Almejally M, Alnajashi H, Alshamrani F, Bohlega S, Cupler EJ, ElBoghdady A, Makkawi S, Qureshi S, Shami S. Managing multiple sclerosis in the Covid19 era: a review of the literature and consensus report from a panel of experts in Saudi Arabia. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 51:102925. [PMID: 33857897 PMCID: PMC7992311 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.102925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Disease-modifying therapies (DMT) for relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) act on the immune system, suggesting a need for caution during the SARS-CoV2/Covid-19 pandemic. A group of experts in MS care from Saudi Arabia convened to consider the impact of Covid-19 on MS care in that country, and to develop consensus recommendations on the current application of DMT therapy. Covid-19 has led to disruption to the care of MS in Saudi Arabia as elsewhere. The Expert Panel considered a DMT's overall tolerability/safety profile to be the most important consideration on whether or not to prescribe at this time. Treatment can be started or continued with interferon beta, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, or natalizumab, as these DMTs are not associated with increased risk of infection (there was no consensus on the initiation of other DMTs). A consensus also supported continuing treatment regimens with fingolimod (or siponimod) and cladribine tablets for a patient without active Covid-19. No DMT should be imitated in a patient with active Covid-19, and (only) interferon beta could be continued in the case of Covid-19 infection. Vaccination against Covid-19 is a therapeutic priority for people with MS. New treatment should be delayed for 2–4 weeks for vaccination. Where treatment is already ongoing, vaccination against Covid-19 should be administered immediately without disruption of treatment (first-line DMTs, natalizumab, fingolimod), when lymphocytes have recovered sufficiently (cladribine tablets, alemtuzumab) or 4 months after the last dose (ocrelizumab). These recommendations will need to be refined and updated as new clinical evidence in this area emerges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al Jumah
- Neurology Department, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ahmad Abulaban
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medicine, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hani Aggad
- Neurology Department, King Abdallah Medical Complex, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Al Bunyan
- Department of Neurology, Neurosciences Center, King Fahad Specialist Hospital Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona AlKhawajah
- Department of Neurosciences, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh Saudi Arabia
| | - Yaser Al Malik
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Division of Neurology, King Abdulaziz Medical City (National Guard Health Affairs), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mousa Almejally
- Neurology Department, Heraa General Hospital, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hind Alnajashi
- Neurology Division, Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Saeed Bohlega
- Department of Neurosciences, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah Saudi Arabia
| | - Edward J Cupler
- Department of Neurosciences, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed ElBoghdady
- Merck Serono Middle East FZ LTD, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Seraj Makkawi
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medicine, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shireen Qureshi
- Neurology Department, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare (JHAH), Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sahar Shami
- Itkan Health Consulting, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Piñar Morales R, Ramírez Rivas MA, Barrero Hernández FJ. SARS-CoV-2 infection and seroprevalence in patients with multiple sclerosis. Neurologia 2021; 36:S0213-4853(21)00058-X. [PMID: 33812762 PMCID: PMC7973057 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2021.03.005] [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: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and the influence of disease-modifying therapies (DMT) for MS on COVID-19 are unknown. To date, patients with MS have not been shown to present greater risk of COVID-19 or more severe progression of the disease. METHODS We performed a descriptive study of patients with MS presenting SARS-CoV-2 infection diagnosed with PCR. We analysed demographic, clinical, laboratory, and treatment variables in our sample. Presence of antibodies against the virus was also determined. RESULTS Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) was the most frequent form of MS in our sample. Prognosis was unfavourable in 10.2% of patients, and was associated with older age and higher scores on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 was 83.3% in our sample. Development of antibodies was not associated with DMT, lymphocytopaenia, or any of the other variables analysed. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of COVID-19 was slightly lower in our sample than in the general population in our province. Unfavourable prognosis was associated with older age and higher EDSS scores. DMT and lymphocytopaenia did not influence the clinical course of COVID-19. Seroprevalence of antibodies against the virus in our sample was similar to that reported for the general population with positive PCR results for the virus; the influence of specific DMTs could not be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Piñar Morales
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario Clínico San Cecilio, Granada, España
| | - M A Ramírez Rivas
- Hospital de Día Médico, Hospital Universitario Clínico San Cecilio, Granada, España
| | - F J Barrero Hernández
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario Clínico San Cecilio, Granada, España; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Granada, Granada, España.
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Alonso R, Silva B, Garcea O, Diaz PEC, Dos Passos GR, Navarro DAR, Valle LAG, Salinas LCR, Negrotto L, Luetic G, Tkachuk VA, Míguez J, de Bedoya FHD, Goiry LG, Sánchez NER, Burgos M, Steinberg J, Balbuena ME, Alvarez PM, López PA, Ysrraelit MC, León RA, Cohen AB, Gracia F, Molina O, Casas M, Deri NH, Pappolla A, Patrucco L, Cristiano E, Tavolini D, Nadur D, Granda AMT, Weiser R, Cassará FP, Sinay V, Rodríguez CC, Lazaro LG, Menichini ML, Piedrabuena R, Escobar GO, Carrá A, Chertcoff A, Pujols BS, Vrech C, Tarulla A, Carvajal R, Mainella C, Becker J, Peeters LM, Walton C, Serena MA, Nuñez S, Rojas JI. COVID-19 in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients in Latin America: COVID-19 in MS and NMOSD patients in LATAM. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 51:102886. [PMID: 33744758 PMCID: PMC7937038 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.102886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background There is no data regarding COVID-19 in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) patients in Latin America. Objective The objective of this study was to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients included in RELACOEM, a LATAM registry of MS and NMOSD patients infected with COVID-19. Methods RELACOEM is a longitudinal, strictly observational registry of MS and NMOSD patients who suffer COVID-19 and Dengue in LATAM. Inclusion criteria to the registry were either: (1) a biologically confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis based on a positive result of a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on a nasopharyngeal swab; or (2) COVID-19–typical symptoms (triad of cough, fever, and asthenia) in an epidemic zone of COVID-19. Descriptive statistics were performed on demographic and clinical variables. The cohort was later stratified for MS and NMOSD and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify variables associated with hospitalizations/intensive critical units (ICU) admission. Results 145 patients were included in the registry from 15 countries and 51 treating physicians. A total of 129 (89%) were MS patients and 16 (11%) NMOSD. 81.4% patients had confirmed COVID-19 and 18.6% were suspected cases. 23 (15.8%) patients were hospitalized, 9 (6.2%) required ICU and 5 (3.4 %) died due to COVID-19. In MS patients, greater age (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.05 – 1.25) and disease duration (OR 1.39, 95%CI 1.14-1.69) were associated with hospitalization/ICU. In NMOSD patients, a greater age (54.3 vs. 36 years, p=<0.001), increased EDSS (5.5 vs 2.9, p=0.0012) and disease duration (18.5 vs. 10.3 years, p=0.001) were significantly associated with hospitalization/ICU. Conclusion we found that in MS patients, age and disease duration was associated with hospitalization and ICU admission requirement, while age, disease duration and EDSS was associated in NMOSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Alonso
- Centro Universitario de Esclerosis Múltiple. Hospital Ramos Mejía, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario Sanatorio Guemes, Argentina
| | - Berenice Silva
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario Sanatorio Guemes, Argentina
| | - Orlando Garcea
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario Sanatorio Guemes, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Fernando Hamuy Diaz de Bedoya
- Departamento de Neurologia, Hospital IMT, Paraguay; Departamento de Neurologia de Diagnóstico Codas Thompson, Paraguay
| | | | | | | | | | - Maria E Balbuena
- Hospital de Clinicas Jose de San Martin, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Debora Nadur
- Hospital Naval - Hospital de Clínicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Fátima Pagani Cassará
- Hospital Universitario Austral, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Fundación Favaloro, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Luciana G Lazaro
- Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario Sanatorio Guemes, Argentina
| | | | - Raúl Piedrabuena
- Clinica Reina Fabiola, Córdoba, Argentina; Instituto Lennox, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jefferson Becker
- Hospital São Lucas - Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Liesbet M Peeters
- University Multiple Sclerosis Center; Biomedical Research Institute & Data Science Institute, Hasselt University, Belgium
| | | | | | - Sebastián Nuñez
- Infectious Diseases Unit Sanatorio Güemes, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan I Rojas
- Centro de esclerosis múltiple de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Universitario de CEMIC, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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49
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Abstract
Zahlreiche neuroimmunologische Krankheitsbilder wie Enzephalopathien, Enzephalitiden, Myelitiden oder ADEM (akute disseminierte Enzephalomyelitis) sind nach einer Infektion mit SARS-CoV‑2 („severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2“) gehäuft aufgetreten, was für einen para- oder postinfektiösen Zusammenhang spricht. Ursächlich ist wahrscheinlich eine virusgetriggerte Überaktivierung des Immunsystems mit Hyperinflammation und Zytokin-Sturm, aber möglicherweise auch die Bildung spezifischer Autoantikörper gegen Gewebe des Zentralnervensystems, die sich vor allem im Liquor schwerkranker COVID-19(„coronavirus disease 2019“)-Patienten finden lassen. Eine direkte Schädigung durch die Invasion von SARS-CoV‑2 ins Gehirn oder Rückenmark scheint keine relevante Rolle zu spielen. Bei Patienten mit Multipler Sklerose, Myasthenie oder anderen neuroimmunologischen Krankheitsbildern wird die Anfälligkeit für eine SARS-CoV-2-Infektion sowie das Risiko eines schweren Verlaufs nicht durch die immunmodulierende Therapie bestimmt, sondern durch bekannte Risikofaktoren wie Alter, Komorbiditäten und den krankheitsbedingten Grad der Behinderung. Immuntherapien sollten bei diesen Patienten daher nicht verschoben oder pausiert werden. Inwieweit neuroimmunologische Mechanismen auch für Langzeitfolgen nach überstandener COVID-19-Erkrankung – wie Fatigue, Gedächtnis‑, Schlaf- oder Angststörungen – verantwortlich sind, werden klinische Verlaufsuntersuchungen u. a. in COVID-19-Registerstudien zeigen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Skripuletz
- Klinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - Nora Möhn
- Klinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - Christiana Franke
- Klinik für Neurologie und Experimentelle Neurologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Harald Prüß
- Klinik für Neurologie und Experimentelle Neurologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland.
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE) Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland.
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50
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Eliseeva DD, Vasiliev AV, Abramova AA, Kochergin IA, Zakharova MN. [Monoclonal antibody therapies for rapidly progressive and highly active multiple sclerosis in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2021; 121:31-36. [PMID: 34387443 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202112107231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, reducing the risk of infection for immunocompromised patients remains an important issue. Patients with aggressive multiple sclerosis (MS) require immunosuppressive therapy in order to control the overactive autoimmune response. Preliminary international and national trials demonstrate that older age, higher disability status and progressive MS are generally associated with a more severe clinical course of COVID-19. However, uncertainty remains about the effect of disease-modifying therapies on the COVID-19 clinical presentation. In this article, we pay special attention to monoclonal antibodies used for immune reconstitution therapy, which results in significant changes to the T-cell and/or B-cell repertoire. Based on the published data from registries in different countries, we attempted to estimate the benefits and risks of these therapies in a complicated epidemiological setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A V Vasiliev
- «Neuroclinic» (Yusupov Hospital), Moscow, Russia
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