The Multiple Sclerosis Data Alliance Catalogue: Enabling Web-Based Discovery of Metadata from Real-World Multiple Sclerosis Data Sources

The arisal of data spaces: why I am excited and worried

This paper explores the significant role of real-world data (RWD) in advancing our understanding and management of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). RWD has proven invaluable in MS research and care, offering insights from larger and diverse patient populations. A key focus of the paper is the European Health Data Space (EHDS), a significant development that promises to change how healthcare data is managed across Europe. This initiative is particularly relevant to the MS community. The paper highlights various data initiatives, discussing their importance for those affected by MS. Despite the potential benefits, there are challenges and concerns, especially about ensuring that the growth of various data platforms remains beneficial for MS patients. The paper suggests practical actions for the global MS community to consider, aimed at optimizing the use of RWD. The emphasis of this discussion is on the secondary use of health data, particularly in the European context. The content is based on the author's own experiences and interpretations, offering a personal yet informed view on using RWD to improve MS research and patient care.

The Indian multiple sclerosis and allied demyelinating disorders registry and research network (IMSRN): Inception to reality

BACKGROUND

Demyelinating disorders of the CNS are a set of chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune conditions. To improve understanding of epidemiology, population characteristics and disease behaviour, an Indian, hospital-based registry has been established to serve as a platform for fostering collaborative research. The following article outlines the development, governance and current status of the Indian Multiple Sclerosis and Allied Demyelinating Disorders Registry and Research Network (IMSRN), the country's first scientific database and dedicated expert research network of these disorders.

METHODS

Multiple reviews and stakeholder meetings were held to set up the registry. The IMSRN was formally initiated in August 2021 across 26 tertiary care centres. The registry is governed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi and its task force committee. The online secure database captures detailed clinical and imaging patient details at baseline and periodic follow up. Periodic meetings of the task force and collaborators are held to discuss the progress, improvements and research proposals.

RESULTS

The IMSRN is currently active and recruiting patients following an informed consent. As of current, more than 3336 patients including RIS (N = 8), CIS (N = 134), MS (N = 1674), NMOSD (N= 561), MOGAD (N = 404), ADEM (N = 46), CRION (N = 21), CLIPPERS (N = 2), and GFAP (N =1) have been enrolled. 340 patients, not meeting the diagnostic criteria for any of the aforementioned disease phenotypes are in the others category. Various research proposals are being developed to study different aspects of these disorders.

CONCLUSION

The IMSRN has been established with a vision to strengthen our understanding about MS, NMOSD, MOGAD, and other demyelinating disorders. This would help answer important questions related to disease profiles and long-term outcomes of patients in the Indian setting. From the standpoint of clinical practice, therapeutics, patient management, research, and national policy building, IMSRN shall serve as a synergising platform for bridging the gap in the aforementioned areas and guiding future research through national and international collaboration.

[Core data set for real world data in multiple sclerosis: customization for latin america from a global task force recommendation]

INTRODUCTION

The primary objective of the core data set is to reduce heterogeneity and promote harmonization among data sources in EM, thereby reducing the time needed to execute real life data collection efforts. Recently, a group led by the Multiple Sclerosis Data Alliance has developed a core data set for collecting real-world data on multiple sclerosis (MS) globally. Our objective was to adapt this global data set to the needs of Latin America, so that it can be implemented by the registries already developed and in the process of development in the region.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A working group was formed regionally, the core data set created globally was adapted (translation process into Spanish, incorporation of regional variables and consensus on variables to be used). Consensus was obtained through the remote Delphi methodology of a round of questionnaires and remote discussion of the core data set variables.

RESULTS

A total of 25 professionals from Latin America carried out the adaptation process between November 2022 and July 2023. Agreement was established on a core data set of nine categories and 45 variables, version 2023 to suggest its implementation in developed or developing registries, and MS cohorts in the region.

CONCLUSION

The core data set seeks to harmonize the variables collected by registries and cohorts in MS in Latin America in order to facilitate said collection and allow collaboration between sources. Its implementation will facilitate real life data collection and collaboration in the region.

Introducing a core dataset for real-world data in multiple sclerosis registries and cohorts: Recommendations from a global task force

BACKGROUND

As of September 2022, there was no globally recommended set of core data elements for use in multiple sclerosis (MS) healthcare and research. As a result, data harmonisation across observational data sources and scientific collaboration is limited.

OBJECTIVES

To define and agree upon a core dataset for real-world data (RWD) in MS from observational registries and cohorts.

METHODS

A three-phase process approach was conducted combining a landscaping exercise with dedicated discussions within a global multi-stakeholder task force consisting of 20 experts in the field of MS and its RWD to define the Core Dataset.

RESULTS

A core dataset for MS consisting of 44 variables in eight categories was translated into a data dictionary that has been published and disseminated for emerging and existing registries and cohorts to use. Categories include variables on demographics and comorbidities (patient-specific data), disease history, disease status, relapses, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and treatment data (disease-specific data).

CONCLUSION

The MS Data Alliance Core Dataset guides emerging registries in their dataset definitions and speeds up and supports harmonisation across registries and initiatives. The straight-forward, time-efficient process using a dedicated global multi-stakeholder task force has proven to be effective to define a concise core dataset.

Data Resource Profile: The Multiple Sclerosis Documentation System 3D and AOK PLUS Linked Database (MSDS-AOK PLUS)

Real-world evidence in multiple sclerosis (MS) is limited by the availability of data elements in individual real-world datasets. We introduce a novel, growing database which links administrative claims and medical records from an MS patient management system, allowing for the complete capture of patient profiles. Using the AOK PLUS sickness fund and the Multiple Sclerosis Documentation System MSDS^3D from the Center of Clinical Neuroscience (ZKN) in Germany, a linked MS-specific database was developed (MSDS-AOK PLUS). Patients treated at ZKN and insured by AOK PLUS were recruited and asked for informed consent. For linkage, insurance IDs were mapped to registry IDs. After the deletion of insurance IDs, an anonymized dataset was provided to a university-affiliate, IPAM e.V., for further research applications. The dataset combines a complete record of patient diagnoses, treatment, healthcare resource use, and costs (AOK PLUS), with detailed clinical parameters including functional performance and patient-reported outcomes (MSDS^3D). The dataset currently captures 500 patients; however, is actively expanding. To demonstrate its potential, we present a use case describing characteristics, treatment, resource use, and costs of a patient subsample. By linking administrative claims to clinical information in medical charts, the novel MSDS-AOK PLUS database can increase the quality and scope of real-world studies in MS.

NARCOMS and Other Registries in Multiple Sclerosis: Issues and Insights

Observational studies and registries can play a critical role in elucidating the natural and treated history of multiple sclerosis (MS) and identifying factors associated with outcomes such as disability and health-related quality of life. The North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS) Registry is one of multiple registries worldwide that focuses on people with MS, but one of the very few patient-driven MS registries. On the 25th anniversary of the first data collection for the NARCOMS Registry, we discuss the importance of disease registries in the MS field, describe key concepts related to registry design and management, and highlight findings from MS registries relevant to clinical care or health policy.