Cerebral enhancement in MOG antibody-associated disease

INTRODUCTION

Limited data exist on brain MRI enhancement in myelin-oligodendrocyte-glycoprotein (MOG) antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) and differences from aquaporin-4-IgG-positive-neuromyelitis-optica-spectrum-disorder (AQP4+NMOSD), and multiple sclerosis (MS).

METHODS

In this retrospective observational study, we identified 122 Mayo Clinic MOGAD patients (1 January 1996-1 July 2020) with cerebral attacks. We explored enhancement patterns using a discovery set (n=41). We assessed enhancement frequency and Expanded Disability Status Scale scores at nadir and follow-up in the remainder (n=81). Two raters assessed T1-weighted-postgadolinium MRIs (1.5T/3T) for enhancement patterns in MOGAD, AQP4+NMOSD (n=14) and MS (n=26). Inter-rater agreement was assessed. Leptomeningeal enhancement clinical correlates were analysed.

RESULTS

Enhancement occurred in 59/81 (73%) MOGAD cerebral attacks but did not influence outcome. Enhancement was often patchy/heterogeneous in MOGAD (33/59 (56%)), AQP4+NMOSD (9/14 (64%); p=0.57) and MS (16/26 (62%); p=0.63). Leptomeningeal enhancement favoured MOGAD (27/59 (46%)) over AQP4+NMOSD (1/14 (7%); p=0.01) and MS (1/26 (4%); p<0.001) with headache, fever and seizures frequent clinical correlates. Ring enhancement favoured MS (8/26 (31%); p=0.006) over MOGAD (4/59 (7%)). Linear ependymal enhancement was unique to AQP4+NMOSD (2/14 (14%)) and persistent enhancement (>3 months) was rare (0%-8%) across all groups. Inter-rater agreement for enhancement patterns was moderate.

CONCLUSIONS

Enhancement is common with MOGAD cerebral attacks and often has a non-specific patchy appearance and rarely persists beyond 3 months. Leptomeningeal enhancement favours MOGAD over AQP4+NMOSD and MS.

Alterations in Aquaporin-4-IgG Serostatus in 986 Patients: A Laboratory-Based Longitudinal Analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to investigate factors associated with aquaporin-4 (AQP4)-IgG serostatus change using a large serological database.

METHODS

This retrospective study utilizes Mayo Clinic Neuroimmunology Laboratory data from 2007 to 2021. We included all patients with ≥2 AQP4-IgG tests (by cell-based assay). The frequency and clinical factors associated with serostatus change were evaluated. Multivariable logistic regression analysis examined whether age, sex, or initial titer was associated with serostatus change.

RESULTS

There were 933 patients who had ≥2 AQP4-IgG tests with an initial positive result. Of those, 830 (89%) remained seropositive and 103 (11%) seroreverted to negative. Median interval to seroreversion was 1.2 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 0.4-3.5). Of those with sustained seropositivity, titers were stable in 92%. Seroreversion was associated with age ≤ 20 years (odds ratio [OR] = 2.25; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09-4.63; p = 0.028) and low initial titer of ≤1:100 (OR = 11.44, 95% CI = 3.17-41.26, p < 0.001), and 5 had clinical attacks despite seroreversion. Among 62 retested after seroreversion, 50% returned to seropositive (median = 224 days, IQR = 160-371). An initial negative AQP4-IgG test occurred in 9,308 patients. Of those, 99% remained seronegative and 53 (0.3%) seroconverted at a median interval of 0.76 years (IQR = 0.37-1.68).

INTERPRETATION

AQP4-IgG seropositivity usually persists over time with little change in titer. Seroreversion to negative is uncommon (11%) and associated with lower titers and younger age. Seroreversion was often transient, and attacks occasionally occurred despite prior seroreversion, suggesting it may not reliably reflect disease activity. Seroconversion to positive is rare (<1%), limiting the utility of repeat testing in seronegative patients unless clinical suspicion is high. ANN NEUROL 2023;94:727-735.

Serum neurofilament light chain levels at attack predict post-attack disability worsening and are mitigated by inebilizumab: analysis of four potential biomarkers in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

OBJECTIVE

To investigate relationships between serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL), ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (sUCHL1), tau (sTau) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (sGFAP) levels and disease activity/disability in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and the effects of inebilizumab on these biomarkers in N-MOmentum.

METHODS

N-MOmentum randomised participants to receive inebilizumab or placebo with a randomised controlled period (RCP) of 28 weeks and an open-label follow-up period of ≥2 years. The sNfL, sUCHL1, sTau and sGFAP were measured using single-molecule arrays in 1260 scheduled and attack-related samples from N-MOmentum participants (immunoglobulin G (IgG) autoantibodies to aquaporin-4-positive, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-IgG-positive or double autoantibody-negative) and two control groups (healthy donors and patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis).

RESULTS

The concentration of all four biomarkers increased during NMOSD attacks. At attack, sNfL had the strongest correlation with disability worsening during attacks (Spearman R2=0.40; p=0.01) and prediction of disability worsening after attacks (sNfL cut-off 32 pg/mL; area under the curve 0.71 (95% CI 0.51 to 0.89); p=0.02), but only sGFAP predicted upcoming attacks. At RCP end, fewer inebilizumab-treated than placebo-treated participants had sNfL>16 pg/mL (22% vs 45%; OR 0.36 (95% CI 0.17 to 0.76); p=0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with sGFAP, sTau and sUCHL1, sNfL at attack was the strongest predictor of disability worsening at attack and follow-up, suggesting a role for identifying participants with NMOSD at risk of limited post-relapse recovery. Treatment with inebilizumab was associated with lower levels of sGFAP and sNfL than placebo.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02200770.

Attack adjudication in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: Substantiation of criteria by magnetic resonance imaging and biomarkers in N-MOmentum

BACKGROUND

The N-MOmentum trial investigated safety and efficacy of inebilizumab in participants with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the attack identification process and adjudication committee (AC) performance in N-MOmentum.

METHODS

Adults (n = 230) with NMOSD and Expanded Disability Status Scale score ⩽8 were randomized (3:1) to inebilizumab 300 mg or placebo. The randomized controlled period was 28 weeks or until adjudicated attack. Attacks were adjudicated according to 18 predefined criteria. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and biomarker (serum glial fibrillary acidic protein [sGFAP]) analyses were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 64 participant-reported neurological events occurred; 51 (80%) were investigator-determined to be attacks. The AC confirmed 43 of the investigator-determined attacks (84%). There was high inter- and intra-AC-member agreement. In 25/64 events (39%) and 14/43 AC-adjudicated attacks (33%), MRI was reviewed during adjudication. Retrospective analysis revealed new domain-specific T1 and T2 MRI lesions in 90% of adjudicated attacks. Increased mean sGFAP concentrations (>2-fold change) from baseline were observed in 56% of adjudicated attacks versus 14% of investigator-determined attacks rejected by the AC and 31% of participant-reported events determined not to be attacks.

CONCLUSION

AC adjudication of NMOSD attacks according to predefined criteria appears robust. MRI lesion correlates and sGFAP elevations were found in most adjudicated attacks.

Is Intravenous Immunoglobulin Effective in Reducing the Risk of Mortality and Morbidity in Neuroinvasive West Nile Virus Infection?: A Critically Appraised Topic

BACKGROUND

The clinical benefit of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) in adult individuals with neuroinvasive West Nile virus (niWNV) infection is not well substantiated. We sought to critically assess current evidence regarding the efficacy of IVIG in treating patients with niWNV.

METHODS

The objective was addressed through the development of a critically appraised topic that included a clinical scenario, structured question, literature search strategy, critical appraisal, assessment of results, evidence summary, commentary, and bottom-line conclusions. Participants included consultant and resident neurologists, a medical librarian, clinical epidemiologists, and a content expert in the field of neuro-infectious diseases.

RESULTS

The appraised study enrolled 62 participants with suspected niWNV, randomized into 3 different arms [37 participants in the Omr-IgG-am group, 12 in the Polygam group, and 13 in the normal saline (NS) group]. Omr-IgG-am and Polygam are different formulations of IVIG. IVIG safety, measured as rates of serious adverse events, was the primary study outcome while IVIG efficacy, measured as rates of unfavorable outcomes, was a secondary endpoint. The estimated rates of SAE were statistically similar in all groups (51.4% Omr-IgG-am, 58.3% Polygam, and 23.1% NS groups). Unfavorable outcomes also occurred at a similar rate between all the groups (51.5% Omr-IgG-am, 54.5% Polygam, and 27.3% NS).

CONCLUSIONS

The appraised trial showed that Omr-IgG-am and Polygam are as safe as NS. Data on efficacy from this trial were limited by a small sample size. Phase III clinical trials on IVIG efficacy in NiWNV infection are needed.

Understanding Treatment Decisions in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder: A Global Clinical Record Review with Patient Interviews

INTRODUCTION

We sought insights into neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) treatment practices worldwide.

METHODS

Neurologists from the USA, Germany, Italy, Brazil, South Korea, and China completed an online survey, contributing clinical records for aquaporin-4 (AQP4) immunoglobulin G (IgG)-seropositive adults with NMOSD, which included patient demographics, diagnosis, maintenance treatment history, relapse occurrence, and severity. Interviewed patients receiving NMOSD maintenance therapy provided information about their diagnosis, treatment, perceptions about relapse severity or disease stability, and treatment switches.

RESULTS

A total of 389 neurologists submitted clinical records for 1185 patients with AQP4-IgG-seropositive NMOSD; 33 patients with NMOSD were interviewed. Approximately 25% (228/910) of patients from the clinical record review (CRR) were initially misdiagnosed; 24% (8/33) of patients interviewed reported formal misdiagnosis. Misdiagnosis was associated with treatment delay and more relapses compared with correct diagnosis (mean 3.3 vs 2.8). Maintenance therapy was not initiated within 2 months for 47% (221/472) of patients from the CRR and 24% (8/33) of interviewed patients. Oral corticosteroids/immunosuppressive therapies were typically the first maintenance treatment initiated, except for the USA, where monoclonal antibodies were equally likely to be prescribed. Relapse severity influenced the decision to initiate/change therapy and use monoclonal antibodies. Of interviewed patients, 76% (25/33) did not recall having a choice of treatment and many did not know the rationale for treatment choice.

CONCLUSION

Misdiagnosis of NMOSD appears to be common and is associated with a delay in initiation of maintenance therapy, with decisions influenced by relapse severity. Further real-world studies assessing relapse severity in treatment initiation/switch are required to revise NMOSD treatment recommendations.

Characterization of Disease Severity and Stability in NMOSD: A Global Clinical Record Review with Patient Interviews

INTRODUCTION

We sought insights into the classification of and factors associated with relapse severity and disease stability in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) clinical practice worldwide.

METHODS

Neurologists recruited from six countries (the USA, Germany, Italy, Brazil, South Korea, and China) participated in a 30-60 minute online survey and submitted two to four clinical records for aquaporin-4-immunoglobulin G (AQP4-IgG)-seropositive adults with NMOSD, which included patient demographics, diagnosis, maintenance treatment history, relapse occurrence, and severity. Separately, patients with NMOSD receiving maintenance therapy were interviewed over the telephone about their treatment journey, as well as perceptions of relapse severity and disease stability, and their potential influence on treatment decisions.

RESULTS

Clinical records for 1185 patients with AQP4-IgG-seropositive NMOSD were provided by 389 neurologists (July-August 2020); 33 patients were interviewed (October-November 2020). There was no clear consensus on how relapse severity was defined in clinical practice, with geographical variations in relapse classification also found. Neurologists tended to rely on clinical assessments when determining severity, viewing each relapse in isolation, whereas patients had a more subjective view based on the changes in their daily lives and comparisons with prior relapses. Similarly, there was a disconnect in the definition of disease stability: the complete absence of relapses was more important for patients than for neurologists.

CONCLUSION

A clear consensus on how to assess relapse severity and disease stability is needed to ensure that patients receive appropriate and timely treatment. In the future, clinical measures should be combined with patient-focused assessments.

A single relapse induces worsening of disability and health-related quality of life in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

Background

Cumulative damage from multiple relapses in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is associated with poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and long-term disability in patients positive for anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies (AQP4+). This study assessed the effect of an individual relapse on HRQoL and disability outcomes in AQP4+ NMOSD.

Methods

Post hoc analyses of data pooled from the PREVENT study and its open-label extension, which evaluated the efficacy and safety of eculizumab in AQP4+ NMOSD, examined the effect of a single relapse on 3 disability and 4 HRQoL outcome measures. Assuming the effect of 1 relapse extends to multiple relapses, an extrapolation was done to assess the effect of 2 relapses on these outcomes.

Results

In 27 patients (placebo: n = 20; eculizumab: n = 7) experiencing an independently adjudicated relapse, 1 relapse led to significantly worse disability (modified Rankin Scale and Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS]) and HRQoL (36-item Short-Form Health Survey mental and physical component summaries; European Quality of Life 5-Dimension questionnaire 3-Level visual analogue scale and utility index) scores. In 4 of 7 outcomes, clinically meaningful worsening was more likely for relapsing versus non-relapsing patients (n = 116). Extrapolating the effect of 2 relapses predicted that clinically meaningful worsening was more likely in 6 out of 7 outcomes, including EDSS, for patients experiencing multiple relapses versus patients experiencing no relapses.

Conclusion

Findings from these clinical trial data demonstrate that a single NMOSD relapse can worsen disability and HRQoL, underscoring the role of relapse prevention in improving long-term outcomes in patients with AQP4+ NMOSD.

In Patients With Melanoma Brain Metastases, Is Combination Immune Checkpoint Inhibition a Safe and Effective First-Line Treatment? A Critically Appraised Topic

BACKGROUND

Combined PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 immune checkpoint inhibition for the has been shown to produce superior results in the treatment of malignant melanoma when compared to monotherapy. However, patients with intracranial disease were excluded from these studies given their poor prognosis.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to critically assess current evidence supporting the co-administration of PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors in the treatment of melanoma brain metastases.

METHODS

The objective was addressed through the development of a critically appraised topic that included a clinical scenario, structured question, literature search strategy, critical appraisal, assessment of results, evidence summary, commentary, and bottom-line conclusions. Participants included consultant and resident neurologists, a medical librarian, clinical epidemiologists, and a content expert in the field of neuro-oncology.

RESULTS

A recent, open-label, non-comparative randomized phase II trial was selected for critical appraisal. This trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of nivolumab alone or in combination with ipilimumab in 79 adult patients with untreated, asymptomatic melanoma brain metastases. The rates of the primary outcome (intracranial response at ≥12 wk) in the primary endpoint cohort were 46% for cohort A (combination therapy) and 20% for cohort B (nivolumab monotherapy). No treatment related deaths were observed in the study. Grade 4 adverse events occurred in 9% of patients in cohort A and none in cohort B.

CONCLUSIONS

Co-administration of ipilimumab and nivolumab as first-line therapy is effective in the treatment of asymptomatic melanoma brain metastases, with an acceptable safety profile.

Frequency of Asymptomatic Optic Nerve Enhancement in a Large Retrospective Cohort of Patients With Aquaporin-4+ NMOSD

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Asymptomatic or persistent optic nerve enhancement in aquaporin-4 (AQP4)-immunoglobulin G (IgG)-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is thought to be rare. Improved understanding may have important implications for assessment of treatment efficacy in clinical trials and in clinical practice. Our objective was to characterize NMOSD interattack optic nerve enhancement.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study performed between 2000 and 2019 (median follow-up 5.5 [range 1-35] years) of patients with AQP4-IgG-positive optic neuritis (ON) evaluated at Mayo Clinic. MRI orbits were reviewed by a neuroradiologist, neuro-ophthalmologist, and neuroimmunologist blinded to the clinical history. Interattack optic nerve enhancement (>30 days after attack) was measured. The correlation between interattack enhancement and Snellen visual acuity (VA), converted to logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), at attack and at follow-up were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 198 MRI scans in 100 patients with AQP4-IgG+ NMOSD were identified, with 107 interattack MRIs from 78 unique patients reviewed. Seven scans were performed before any ON (median 61 days before attack [range 21-271 days]) and 100 after ON (median 400 days after attack [33-4,623 days]). Optic nerve enhancement was present on 18/107 (16.8%) interattack scans (median 192.5 days from attack [33-2,943]) of patients with preceding ON. On 15 scans, enhancement occurred at the site of prior attacks; the lesion location was unchanged, but the lesion length was shorter. Two scans (1.8%) demonstrated new asymptomatic lesions (prior scan demonstrated no enhancement). In a third patient with subjective blurry vision, MRI showed enhancement preceding detectable eye abnormalities on examination noted 15 days later. There was no difference in VA at preceding attack nadir (logMAR VA 1.7 vs 2.1; p = 0.79) or long-term VA (logMAR VA 0.4 vs 0.2, p = 0.56) between those with and without interattack optic nerve enhancement.

DISCUSSION

Asymptomatic optic nerve enhancement occurred in 17% of patients with NMOSD predominantly at the site of prior ON attacks and may represent intermittent blood-brain barrier breakdown or subclinical ON. New asymptomatic enhancement was seen only in 2% of patients. Therapeutic clinical trials for NMOSD require blinded relapse adjudication when assessing treatment efficacy, and it is important to recognize that asymptomatic optic nerve enhancement can occur in patients with ON.

In Patients With Functional Movement Disorders, Is Specialized Physical Therapy Effective in Improving Motor Symptoms?: A Critically Appraised Topic

BACKGROUND

Functional movement disorders (FMD, aka psychogenic movement disorders) are very common and frequently chronic and disabling. Despite this, there is a paucity of evidence-based treatment to manage and alleviate these conditions. Specialized physical therapy (PT), involving sequential motor relearning and redirecting attention, has shown promise as a therapeutic intervention for motor symptoms.

METHODS

The objective of this study was to critically assess current evidence regarding specialized PT compared with usual care in improving motor symptoms among patients with FMD. This was addressed through the development of a structured critically appraised topic. This included a clinical scenario with a clinical question, literature search strategy, critical appraisal, results, evidence summary, commentary, and bottom-line conclusions. Participants included consultant and resident neurologists, a medical librarian, and content experts in the fields of physical medicine and rehabilitation, physical and occupational therapy, psychiatry, and psychology.

RESULTS

A randomized controlled feasibility trial was identified and selected for critical appraisal. This study randomized 60 patients with FMD to a 5-day specialized outpatient PT program or to general outpatient PT referral, and measured patient-reported and clinician-measured outcomes. At 6 months, 72% of patients in the intervention group had a good outcome compared with 18% of control group patients. Patients in the specialized outpatient PT program had significantly better outcomes in 3 Short-Form 36 (SF36) domains (d=0.46 to 0.79) and multiple other scales of physical and social function as well as clinician-measured outcomes. The intervention resulted in 0.08 additional quality-adjusted life years in a cost-effective manner.

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests that in patients with FMD, specialized PT improves motor symptoms in a clinically significant, sustained, and cost-effective manner. This promising intervention warrants further investigation and replication.

Diagnostic value of aquaporin-4-IgG live cell based assay in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

Objective

Determine the utility of aquaporin 4 IgG (AQP4-IgG) testing (live cell-based assay) for Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSD).

Methods

We included Mayo Clinic patients (1/1/2018-12/31/2019) tested for serum AQP4-IgG by live cell-based flow-cytometric assay. Medical records were reviewed to assess if patients fulfilled 2015 NMOSD criteria.

Results

Of 1371 patients tested, 41 were positive (3%) and all fulfilled NMOSD criteria with AQP4-IgG (specificity = 100%). Only 10/1330 testing negative met NMOSD criteria without AQP4-IgG (sensitivity = 80%) and seven of these 10 were MOG-IgG positive.

Conclusions

AQP4-IgG by live cell-based assay was highly specific and without false positives in a high throughput setting.

Eculizumab monotherapy for NMOSD: Data from PREVENT and its open-label extension

During PREVENT (a phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, time-to-event study) and its open-label extension (interim analysis), 33 adults with aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-IgG + NMOSD) received eculizumab monotherapy for a median of 2.8 years (range, 14 weeks–5.2 years). At 192 weeks (~4 years), 96% of these patients were free from adjudicated relapses (Kaplan–Meier analysis; 95% confidence interval, 75.7–99.4). During PREVENT, 95% (20/21) of patients receiving eculizumab monotherapy had no disability worsening. Eculizumab monotherapy provides effective long-term relapse prevention, relieving the chronic immunosuppression burden in patients with AQP4-IgG + NMOSD. ClinicalTrials.gov; PREVENT: NCT01892345; open-label extension: NCT02003144.

CNS Demyelinating Attacks Requiring Ventilatory Support With Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein or Aquaporin-4 Antibodies

Background and Objective

Severe attacks of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody–associated disorder (MOGAD) and aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody–positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-NMOSD) may require ventilatory support, but data on episodes are limited, particularly for MOGAD. We sought to compare the frequency, characteristics, and outcomes of MOGAD and AQP4-NMOSD attacks requiring ventilatory support.

Methods

This retrospective descriptive study identified Mayo Clinic patients (January 1, 1996–December 1, 2020) with MOGAD or AQP4-NMOSD and an attack requiring noninvasive or invasive ventilation at Mayo Clinic or an outside facility by searching for relevant terms in their electronic medical record. Inclusion criteria were (1) attack-related requirement for noninvasive (bilevel positive airway pressure or continuous positive airway pressure) or invasive respiratory support (mechanical ventilation); (2) MOG or AQP4 antibody positivity with fulfillment of MOGAD and AQP4-NMOSD clinical diagnostic criteria, respectively; and (3) sufficient clinical details. We collected data on demographics, comorbid conditions, indication for and duration of respiratory support, MRI findings, treatments, and outcomes. The races of those with attacks requiring respiratory support were compared to those without such attacks in MOGAD and AQP4-NMOSD.

Results

Attacks requiring ventilatory support were similarly rare in patients with MOGAD (8 of 279, 2.9%) and AQP4-NMOSD (11 of 503 [2.2%]) (p = 0.63). The age at attack (median years [range]) (MOGAD 31.5 [5–47] vs AQP4-NMOSD 43 [14–65]; p = 0.01) and percentage of female sex (MOGAD 3 of 8 [38%] vs AQP4-NMOSD 10 of 11 [91%]; p = 0.04) differed. The reasons for ventilation differed between MOGAD (inability to protect airway from seizure, encephalitis or encephalomyelitis with attacks of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis 5 [62.5%] or unilateral cortical encephalitis 3 [37.5%]) and AQP4-NMOSD (inability to protect airway from cervical myelitis 9 [82%], rhombencephalitis 1 [9%], or combinations of both 1 [9%]). Median ventilation duration for MOGAD was 2 days (range 1–7 days) vs 19 days (range 6–330 days) for AQP4-NMOSD (p = 0.01). All patients with MOGAD recovered, but 2 of 11 (18%) patients with AQP4-NMOSD died of the attack. For AQP4-NMOSD, Black race was overrepresented for attacks requiring ventilatory support vs those without these episodes (5 of 11 [45%] vs 88 of 457 [19%]; p = 0.045).

Discussion

Ventilatory support is rarely required for MOGAD and AQP4-NMOSD attacks, and the indications differ. Compared to MOGAD, these attacks in AQP4-NMOSD may have higher morbidity and mortality, and those of Black race were more predisposed, which we suspect may relate to socially mediated health inequality.

Is Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation a Safe and Effective Alternative to Whole Brain Radiation as Consolidation Therapy in Patients With Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma?: A Critically Appraised Topic

BACKGROUND

High-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (HD-ASCT) is a promising alternative to whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) in the treatment of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). The objective of this study was to critically assess current evidence supporting the use of HD-ASCT as first-line consolidative therapy in PCNSL.

METHODS

The objective was addressed through the development of a critically appraised topic that included a clinical scenario, structured question, literature search strategy, critical appraisal, assessment of results, evidence summary, commentary, and bottom-line conclusions. Participants included consultant and resident neurologists, a medical librarian, clinical epidemiologists, and a content expert in the field of neuro-oncology.

RESULTS

A recent, open-label, noncomparative randomized phase II trial was selected for critical appraisal. This trial evaluated the efficacy and toxicity of consolidative therapy with HD-ASCT and WBRT in PCNSL in 2 separate treatment arms. A total of 140 patients with newly diagnosed PCNSL between the ages of 18 and 60 years were included. The primary endpoint of 2-year progression-free survival was met in 63% of patients in the WBRT arm and 87% in the HD-ASCT arm. Notably, an overall improvement in neurocognitive scores was observed following HD-ASCT, while WBRT was associated with worsened cognitive outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

In young patients with newly diagnosed PCNSL, consolidative therapy with HD-ASCT appears to be associated with less neurocognitive toxicity and may be more effective than WBRT at preventing relapses, however, at the cost of a higher treatment-related mortality.

Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Eculizumab in Aquaporin-4 IgG-Positive NMOSD

OBJECTIVE

During PREVENT (NCT01892345), eculizumab significantly reduced relapse risk versus placebo in patients with aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-IgG+ NMOSD). We report an interim analysis of PREVENT's ongoing open-label extension (OLE; NCT02003144) evaluating eculizumab's long-term safety and efficacy.

METHODS

Patients who completed PREVENT could enroll in the OLE to receive eculizumab (maintenance dose = 1,200 mg/2 weeks, after a blinded induction phase). Safety and efficacy data from PREVENT and its OLE (interim data cut, July 31, 2019) were combined for this analysis.

RESULTS

Across PREVENT and the OLE, 137 patients received eculizumab and were monitored for a median (range) of 133.3 weeks (5.1-276.9 weeks), for a combined total of 362.3 patient-years (PY). Treatment-related adverse event (AE) and serious adverse event (SAE) rates were 183.5 in 100 PY and 8.6 in 100 PY, respectively. Serious infection rates were 10.2 in 100 PY in eculizumab-treated patients versus 15.1 in 100 PY in the PREVENT placebo group. No patient developed a meningococcal infection. At 192 weeks (3.7 years), 94.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 88.6-97.3) of patients remained adjudicated relapse-free. The adjudicated annualized relapse rate was 0.025 (95% CI = 0.013-0.048) in all eculizumab-treated patients versus 0.350 (95% CI = 0.199-0.616) in the PREVENT placebo group. During the OLE, 37% of patients (44 of 119 patients) stopped or decreased background immunosuppressive therapy use.

INTERPRETATION

This analysis demonstrates that eculizumab's long-term safety profile in NMOSD is consistent with its established profile across other indications. This analysis also demonstrated the sustained ability of long-term eculizumab treatment to reduce relapse risk in patients with AQP4-IgG+ NMOSD. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:1088-1098.

Eculizumab in Asian patients with anti-aquaporin-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: A subgroup analysis from the randomized phase 3 PREVENT trial and its open-label extension

Background Eculizumab, a terminal complement inhibitor, significantly reduced the risk of relapse compared with placebo in patients with anti-aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G-positive (AQP4+) neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in the PREVENT trial. We report efficacy and safety analyses in Asian patients in PREVENT and its open-label extension (OLE). Methods PREVENT was a double-blind, randomized, phase 3 trial. Patients with AQP4+ NMOSD were randomly assigned (2:1) to receive intravenous eculizumab (maintenance dose, 1200 mg/2 weeks) or placebo. Patients who completed PREVENT could receive eculizumab in an OLE. Analyses were performed in a prespecified subgroup of Asian patients. Results Of 143 patients enrolled, 52 (36.4%) were included in the Asian subgroup (eculizumab, n = 37; placebo, n = 15); 45 Asian patients received eculizumab in the OLE. Most Asian patients (86.5%) received concomitant immunosuppressive therapy. During PREVENT, one adjudicated relapse occurred in patients receiving eculizumab and six occurred in patients receiving placebo in the Asian subgroup (hazard ratio, 0.05; 95% confidence interval: 0.01-0.35; p = 0.0002). An estimated 95.2% of Asian patients remained relapse-free after 144 weeks of eculizumab treatment. Upper respiratory tract infections, headache, and nasopharyngitis were the most common adverse events with eculizumab in the Asian subgroup. Conclusion Eculizumab reduces the risk of relapse in Asian patients with AQP4+ NMOSD, with a benefit-risk profile similar to the overall PREVENT population. The benefits of eculizumab were maintained during long-term therapy. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT01892345 (PREVENT); NCT02003144 (open-label extension).

Serum Neurofilament to Magnetic Resonance Imaging Lesion Area Ratio Differentiates Spinal Cord Infarction From Acute Myelitis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The diagnosis of spontaneous spinal cord infarction (SCI) is limited by the lack of diagnostic biomarkers and MRI features that often overlap with those of other myelopathies, especially acute myelitis. We investigated whether the ratio between serum neurofilament light chain levels and MRI T2-lesion area (neurofilament light chain/area ratio-NAR) differentiates SCI from acute myelitis of similar severity.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified Mayo Clinic patients (January 1, 2000-December 31, 2019) with (1) SCI, (2) AQP4 (aquaporin 4)-IgG or MOG (myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein)-IgG-associated myelitis at disease clinical presentation, or (3) idiopathic transverse myelitis from a previously identified population-based cohort of patients seronegative for AQP4-IgG and MOG-IgG. Serum neurofilament light chain levels (pg/mL) were assessed at the Verona University (SIMOA, Quanterix) in a blinded fashion on available stored samples obtained ≤3 months from myelopathy presentation. For each patient, the largest spinal cord lesion area (mm²) was manually outlined by 2 independent raters on sagittal T2-weighted MRI images, and the mean value was used to determine NAR (pg/[mL·mm²]).

RESULTS

Forty-eight patients were included SCI, 20 (definite, 11; probable, 6; possible, 3); acute myelitis, 28 (AQP4-IgG-associated, 17; MOG-IgG-associated, 5; idiopathic transverse myelitis, 6). The median expanded disability status scale score (range) at myelopathy nadir were 7.75 (2-8.5) and 5.5 (2-8), respectively. Serum neurofilament light chain levels (median [range] pg/mL) in patients with SCI (188 [14.3-2793.4]) were significantly higher compared with patients with AQP4-IgG-associated myelitis (37 [0.8-6942.9]), MOG-IgG-associated myelitis (45.8 [4-283.8]), and idiopathic transverse myelitis (15.6 [0.9-217.8]); P=0.01. NAR showed the highest accuracy for identification of SCI versus acute myelitis with values ≥0.35 pg/(mL·mm²) yielding 86% specificity and 95% sensitivity (area under the curve=0.93). The positive and negative likelihood ratios were 6.67 and 0.06, respectively. NAR remained independently associated with SCI after adjusting for age, gender, immunotherapy before sampling, and days from myelopathy symptoms onset to sampling (P=0.0007).

CONCLUSIONS

NAR is a novel and promising clinical biomarker for differentiation of SCI from acute myelitis.

Interleukin-6 inhibition with tocilizumab for relapsing MOG-IgG associated disorder (MOGAD): A case-series and review

BACKGROUND

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-immunoglobulin G (MOG-IgG) associated disorder (MOGAD) is a CNS demyelinating disease distinct from neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and multiple sclerosis. Some patients with MOGAD exhibit a highly-relapsing and steroid-dependent disease course for which optimal treatment is unknown. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) plays an important pathobiologic role in NMOSD with aquaporin-4 antibodies and preliminary data suggest similar mechanisms of CNS damage may occur in MOGAD.

OBJECTIVE

To summarize our experience with and all current literature on the use of tocilizumab, an IL-6 inhibitor, for highly-relapsing MOGAD along with the underlying immunopathologic rationale.

METHODS

This is a single-center report from a U.S. military tertiary referral hospital of all patients with clinically, radiographically, and serologically confirmed MOGAD who were treated with tocilizumab compiled with data from five other case series/reports from tertiary referral centers. The main outcomes of interest were reduction in annualized relapse rate and required dose of oral prednisone for symptomatic management.

RESULTS

Ten total patients with relapsing MOGAD who were treated with intravenous or subcutaneous tocilizumab were identified. At our institution, a 20 year-old female with a 9-year history of highly-relapsing and steroid dependent MOGAD was treated with tocilizumab. In 28 months of follow up, she had no clinical relapses and was able to discontinue corticosteroids. Another 35 year-old female at our institution with a 10-year history of highly-relapsing and steroid dependent MOGAD was treated with tocilizumab for 6 months. Tocilizumab therapy was associated with relapse freedom, resolution of eye pain, and ability to discontinue corticosteroids. When compiled with data from all other case reports of relapsing MOGAD treated with tocilizumab, there have been zero clinical or radiographic relapses in 10 patients over an average treatment duration of 28.6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Tocilizumab is an IL-6 inhibitor that may be a promising therapeutic option for patients with relapsing MOGAD that has not responded to other immunotherapies. Our results support a key role for IL-6-related mechanisms in MOGAD disease activity. Its safety and tolerability profile, both in our own experience and based on its use for other FDA approved conditions, may even justify its use a first line therapy in select patients. Further research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of IL-6 inhibition in MOGAD.

Emerging Targeted Therapies for Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an autoimmune, inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system that typically presents with recurrent episodes of optic neuritis, longitudinally extensive myelitis, brainstem, diencephalic, and cerebral syndromes. Up to 80% of NMOSD patients have a circulating pathogenic autoantibody that targets the water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4-IgG). The discovery of AQP4-IgG transformed our understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease and its possible treatment targets. Monoclonal antibodies targeting terminal complement (eculizumab), CD19 (inebilizumab), and the interleukin-6 receptor (satralizumab) have demonstrated efficacy in NMOSD attack prevention in recent phase 3 trials and have gained subsequent regulatory approval in the USA and other countries. We aim to review the evidence supporting the efficacy of these new drugs.

Steroid-sparing maintenance immunotherapy for MOG-IgG associated disorder

OBJECTIVE

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-immunoglobulin G (MOG-IgG) associated disorder (MOGAD) often manifests with recurrent CNS demyelinating attacks. The optimal treatment for reducing relapses is unknown. To help determine the efficacy of long-term immunotherapy in preventing relapse in patients with MOGAD, we conducted a multicenter retrospective study to determine the rate of relapses on various treatments.

METHODS

We determined the frequency of relapses in patients receiving various forms of long-term immunotherapy for MOGAD. Inclusion criteria were history of ≥1 CNS demyelinating attacks, MOG-IgG seropositivity, and immunotherapy for ≥6 months. Patients were reviewed for CNS demyelinating attacks before and during long-term immunotherapy.

RESULTS

Seventy patients were included. The median age at initial CNS demyelinating attack was 29 years (range 3-61 years; 33% <18 years), and 59% were female. The median annualized relapse rate (ARR) before treatment was 1.6. On maintenance immunotherapy, the proportion of patients with relapse was as follows: mycophenolate mofetil 74% (14 of 19; ARR 0.67), rituximab 61% (22 of 36; ARR 0.59), azathioprine 59% (13 of 22; ARR 0.2), and IV immunoglobulin (IVIG) 20% (2 of 10; ARR 0). The overall median ARR on these 4 treatments was 0.3. All 9 patients treated with multiple sclerosis (MS) disease-modifying agents had a breakthrough relapse on treatment (ARR 1.5).

CONCLUSION

This large retrospective multicenter study of patients with MOGAD suggests that maintenance immunotherapy reduces recurrent CNS demyelinating attacks, with the lowest ARR being associated with maintenance IVIG therapy. Traditional MS disease-modifying agents appear to be ineffective. Prospective randomized controlled studies are required to validate these conclusions.

Epidemiology of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder and Its Prevalence and Incidence Worldwide

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an uncommon inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, manifesting clinically as optic neuritis, myelitis, and certain brain and brainstem syndromes. Cases clinically diagnosed as NMOSD may include aquaporin 4 (AQP4)-antibody-seropositive autoimmune astrocytopathic disease, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-antibody-seropositive inflammatory demyelinating disease, and double-seronegative disease. AQP4-antibody disease has a high female-to-male ratio (up to 9:1), and its mean age at onset of ~40 years is later than that seen in multiple sclerosis. For MOG-antibody disease, its gender ratio is closer to 1:1, and it is more common in children than in adults. Its clinical phenotypes differ but overlap with those of AQP4-antibody disease and include acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, brainstem and cerebral cortical encephalitis, as well as optic neuritis and myelitis. Double-seronegative disease requires further research and clarification. Population-based studies over the past two decades report the prevalence and incidence of NMOSD in different populations worldwide. One relevant finding is the varying prevalence observed in different racial groups. Consistently, the prevalence of NMOSD among Whites is ~1/100,000 population, with an annual incidence of <1/million population. Among East Asians, the prevalence is higher, at ~3.5/100,000 population, while the prevalence in Blacks may be up to 10/100,000 population. For MOG-antibody disease, hospital-based studies largely do not observe any significant racial preponderance so far. This disorder comprises a significant proportion of NMOSD cases that are AQP4-antibody-seronegative. A recent Dutch nationwide study reported the annual incidence of MOG-antibody disease as 1.6/million population (adult: 1.3/million, children: 3.1/million). Clinical and radiological differences between AQP4-antibody and MOG-antibody associated diseases have led to interest in the revisions of NMOSD definition and expanded stratification based on detection of a specific autoantibody biomarker. More population-based studies in different geographical regions and racial groups will be useful to further inform the prevalence and incidence of NMOSD and their antibody-specific subgroups. Accessibility to AQP4-antibody and MOG-antibody testing, which is limited in many centers, is a challenge to overcome. Environmental and genetic studies will be useful accompaniments to identify other potential pathogenetic factors and specific biomarkers in NMOSD.

A fine balance: Immunosuppression and immunotherapy in a patient with multiple sclerosis and COVID-19

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The role of pre-existing immunosuppression on COVID-19 risk and outcomes is unclear

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Immunotherapy is being evaluated for COVID-19-related cytokine release syndrome

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We report a fingolimod-treated MS patient who developed severe COVID-19

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COVID-19 recovery occurred after stopping fingolimod and treating with tocilizumab

Background

Treatment decisions in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic are challenging. It is not known whether and how various disease modifying therapies, especially immunosuppressive drugs, affect COVID-19 risk and disease course.

Methods

Case report

Results

We report a fingolimod-treated MS patient who developed severe COVID-19 but recovered after treatment with tocilizumab.

Conclusion

This report suggests that a brief course of tocilizumab for the treatment of severe COVID-19 may be effective while not aggravating pre-existing MS.

Inebilizumab for the treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (N-MOmentum): a double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled phase 2/3 trial

BACKGROUND

No approved therapies exist for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), a rare, relapsing, autoimmune, inflammatory disease of the CNS that causes blindness and paralysis. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of inebilizumab, an anti-CD19, B cell-depleting antibody, in reducing the risk of attacks and disability in NMOSD.

METHODS

We did a multicentre, double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled phase 2/3 study at 99 outpatient specialty clinics or hospitals in 25 countries. Eligible participants were adults (≥18 years old) with a diagnosis of NMOSD, an Expanded Disability Status Scale score of 8·0 or less, and a history of at least one attack requiring rescue therapy in the year before screening or at least two attacks requiring rescue therapy in the 2 years before screening. Participants were randomly allocated (3:1) to 300 mg intravenous inebilizumab or placebo with a central interactive voice response system or interactive web response system and permuted block randomisation. Inebilizumab or placebo was administered on days 1 and 15. Participants, investigators, and all clinical staff were masked to the treatments, and inebilizumab and placebo were indistinguishable in appearance. The primary endpoint was time to onset of an NMOSD attack, as determined by the adjudication committee. Efficacy endpoints were assessed in all randomly allocated patients who received at least one dose of study intervention, and safety endpoints were assessed in the as-treated population. The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02200770.

FINDINGS

Between Jan 6, 2015, and Sept 24, 2018, 230 participants were randomly assigned to treatment and dosed, with 174 participants receiving inebilizumab and 56 receiving placebo. The randomised controlled period was stopped before complete enrolment, as recommended by the independent data-monitoring committee, because of a clear demonstration of efficacy. 21 (12%) of 174 participants receiving inebilizumab had an attack versus 22 (39%) of 56 participants receiving placebo (hazard ratio 0·272 [95% CI 0·150-0·496]; p<0·0001). Adverse events occurred in 125 (72%) of 174 participants receiving inebilizumab and 41 (73%) of 56 participants receiving placebo. Serious adverse events occurred in eight (5%) of 174 participants receiving inebilizumab and five (9%) of 56 participants receiving placebo.

INTERPRETATION

Compared with placebo, inebilizumab reduced the risk of an NMOSD attack. Inebilizumab has potential application as an evidence-based treatment for patients with NMOSD.

FUNDING

MedImmune and Viela Bio.

Eculizumab in Aquaporin-4-Positive Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

BACKGROUND

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a relapsing, autoimmune, inflammatory disorder that typically affects the optic nerves and spinal cord. At least two thirds of cases are associated with aquaporin-4 antibodies (AQP4-IgG) and complement-mediated damage to the central nervous system. In a previous small, open-label study involving patients with AQP4-IgG-positive disease, eculizumab, a terminal complement inhibitor, was shown to reduce the frequency of relapse.

METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, time-to-event trial, 143 adults were randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to receive either intravenous eculizumab (at a dose of 900 mg weekly for the first four doses starting on day 1, followed by 1200 mg every 2 weeks starting at week 4) or matched placebo. The continued use of stable-dose immunosuppressive therapy was permitted. The primary end point was the first adjudicated relapse. Secondary outcomes included the adjudicated annualized relapse rate, quality-of-life measures, and the score on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), which ranges from 0 (no disability) to 10 (death).

RESULTS

The trial was stopped after 23 of the 24 prespecified adjudicated relapses, given the uncertainty in estimating when the final event would occur. The mean (±SD) annualized relapse rate in the 24 months before enrollment was 1.99±0.94; 76% of the patients continued to receive their previous immunosuppressive therapy during the trial. Adjudicated relapses occurred in 3 of 96 patients (3%) in the eculizumab group and 20 of 47 (43%) in the placebo group (hazard ratio, 0.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.02 to 0.20; P<0.001). The adjudicated annualized relapse rate was 0.02 in the eculizumab group and 0.35 in the placebo group (rate ratio, 0.04; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.15; P<0.001). The mean change in the EDSS score was -0.18 in the eculizumab group and 0.12 in the placebo group (least-squares mean difference, -0.29; 95% CI, -0.59 to 0.01). Upper respiratory tract infections and headaches were more common in the eculizumab group. There was one death from pulmonary empyema in the eculizumab group.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with AQP4-IgG-positive NMOSD, those who received eculizumab had a significantly lower risk of relapse than those who received placebo. There was no significant between-group difference in measures of disability progression. (Funded by Alexion Pharmaceuticals; PREVENT ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01892345; EudraCT number, 2013-001150-10.).

Immune-Mediated Myelopathies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews the clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and management of immune-mediated myelopathies.

RECENT FINDINGS

The discovery of several neural autoantibodies and their antigenic targets has revolutionized the investigation and treatment of immune-mediated myelopathies. Detection of these serologic biomarkers can support or establish a diagnosis of an autoimmune myelopathy, and, in the case of paraneoplastic syndromes, indicate the likely presence of an underlying malignancy. Distinctive lesion patterns detected on spinal cord or brain MRI narrow the differential diagnosis in patients with acute or subacute inflammatory myelopathies, including those not associated with autoantibody markers.

SUMMARY

Immune-mediated myelopathies usually present acutely or subacutely and have a broad differential diagnosis. A systematic diagnostic approach using data from the clinical setting and presentation, MRI lesion patterns, CSF data, and autoantibody markers can differentiate these disorders from noninflammatory myelopathies, often with precise disease classification. This, in turn, provides prognostic information, especially whether the disorder is likely to relapse, and facilitates therapeutic decision making. Diagnostic accuracy informs selection of acute immunotherapy aimed at arresting and reversing recent neurologic injury and, when necessary, selection of long-term treatment for prevention of disease progression or relapse.

The spectrum of acute cardiopulmonary events associated with multiple sclerosis exacerbations

Diverse acute neurological injuries may cause acute cardiopulmonary events including neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE) and neurogenic stunned myocardium (NSM). The mechanism is probably mediated by sympathetic nervous system activation. Focal central nervous system (CNS) lesions, such as demyelinating lesions in multiple sclerosis (MS), may also cause cardiopulmonary disturbances. We aim to review the acute cardiopulmonary events associated with MS relapses. We performed a literature search using PubMed, and selected case reports of acute cardiac and/or pulmonary events related to MS exacerbations. We grouped these events into three categories: 1) NPE with normal cardiac function; 2) NSM and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC); 3) coexisting myocardial dysfunction and pulmonary edema. In some cases, cardiac and pulmonary symptoms preceded the onset of neurological symptoms. The majority of cases were associated with acute demyelinating lesions located in the medulla. Acute brainstem MS relapses, with demyelinating lesions affecting the medulla, may cause acute cardiac and pulmonary events presumably secondary to sympathetic hyperstimulation. Specific regions in the medulla that regulate cardiac function, systemic blood pressure and pulmonary hydrostatic pressure seem to be responsible for these events.

Updated diagnostic criteria for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: Similar outcomes of previously separate cohorts

Background

The specificity of the aquaporin-4 antibody to predict recurrent inflammatory central nervous system disease has led to the design of the 2015 neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder criteria which capture all aquaporin-4 antibody seropositive patients.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare treatment outcomes in aquaporin-4 antibody seropositive patients who met the previous 2006 clinical criteria for neuromyelitis optica with patients who meet the 2015 neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder criteria.

Methods

The study involved a three-center retrospective chart review of clinical outcomes among aquaporin-4 patients diagnosed with neuromyelitis optica and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

Results

Hazard ratios of relapse during immunosuppressive therapy, relative to pre-therapy, were not significantly different for patients who met the 2006 criteria of neuromyelitis optica versus the 2015 neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder criteria among those treated with azathioprine ( p = 0.24), mycophenolate mofetil ( p = 0.63), or rituximab ( p = 0.97).

Conclusion

Reductions in the hazard of relapse during treatment with immunosuppressive therapies, relative to average pre-treatment, were not different for aquaporin-4 antibody seropositive patients categorized using the 2006 criteria of neuromyelitis optica and the 2015 neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder criteria. These therapeutic findings support the design of the 2015 neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder criteria which capture all aquaporin-4 antibody seropositive patients.

Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Positive Optic Neuritis: Clinical Characteristics, Radiologic Clues, and Outcome

PURPOSE

To characterize the clinical phenotype of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG-IgG) optic neuritis.

DESIGN

Observational case series.

METHODS

Setting: Multicenter. Patient/Study Population: Subjects meeting inclusion criteria: (1) history of optic neuritis; (2) seropositivity (MOG-IgG binding index > 2.5); 87 MOG-IgG-seropositive patients with optic neuritis were included (Mayo Clinic, 76; other medical centers, 11). MOG-IgG was detected using full-length MOG-transfected live HEK293 cells in a clinically validated flow cytometry assay.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Clinical and radiologic characteristics and visual outcomes.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven percent were female and median age at onset was 31 (range 2-79) years. Median number of optic neuritis attacks was 3 (range 1-8), median follow-up 2.9 years (range 0.5-24 years), and annualized relapse rate 0.8. Average visual acuity (VA) at nadir of worst attack was count fingers. Average final VA was 20/30; for 5 patients (6%) it was ≤20/200 in either eye. Optic disc edema and pain each occurred in 86% of patients. Magnetic resonance imaging showed perineural enhancement in 50% and longitudinally extensive involvement in 80%. Twenty-six patients (30%) had recurrent optic neuritis without other neurologic symptoms, 10 (12%) had single optic neuritis, 14 (16%) had chronic relapsing inflammatory optic neuropathy, and 36 (41%) had optic neuritis with other neurologic symptoms (most neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder-like phenotype or acute disseminated encephalomyelitis). Only 1 patient was diagnosed with MS (MOG-IgG-binding index 2.8; normal range ≤ 2.5). Persistent MOG-IgG seropositivity occurred in 61 of 62 (98%). A total of 61% received long-term immunosuppressant therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Manifestations of MOG-IgG-positive optic neuritis are diverse. Despite recurrent attacks with severe vision loss, the majority of patients have significant recovery and retain functional vision long-term.

Comment on 2018 American Academy of Neurology guidelines on disease-modifying therapies in MS

The American Academy of Neurology has published a comprehensive review and guidelines for the use of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in multiple sclerosis (MS) for the first time since 2002. These guidelines represent the work of MS experts, patients, and guideline experts and are based on their review of randomized controlled trials and observational evidence that addresses a set of prespecified questions related to starting, switching, and potentially discontinuing DMTs. Many of the recommendations address decision-making regarding the use of DMTs and incorporate the perspective of patients. Modified Delphi methods were used to establish consensus recommendations that were assigned a level of clinical obligation (actions a clinician must [A], should [B], or may [C] do). Most guideline recommendations are level B. Few reached level A, and several achieved only level C, primarily because of lack of evidence. The guidelines eschew formal treatment algorithms and do not address financial considerations and a variety of other controversies. We identify remaining uncertainties, the most important of which is the choice of available DMTs for the average newly diagnosed patient. We reiterate a number of research needs identified in the guidelines that could affect the use of DMTs, including improved definition of breakthrough disease requiring change in therapy, development of better and universally accepted definitions of both benign and aggressive MS, more and longer-duration comparative effectiveness trials, discovery and validation of biomarkers of disease activity and response to therapy, and development of treatment strategies focused on neuroprotection, remyelination, and neural repair.

NEDA treatment target? No evident disease activity as an actionable outcome in practice

"No evident disease activity" (NEDA) is a proposed measure of disease activity-free status in multiple sclerosis (MS) that is typically defined as absence of relapses, disability progression, and MRI activity over a defined time period. NEDA is increasingly reported in randomized controlled trials of MS disease modifying therapies where it has some perceived advantages over outcomes such as annualized relapse rate. NEDA has also been proposed as a treatment goal in clinical care. At this point, the long-term implications of early NEDA remain largely unknown. We review current NEDA definitions, use in clinical trials, and its prospects for routine use as an actionable treatment target in clinical practice.

Aquaporin-4 serostatus does not predict response to immunotherapy in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

BACKGROUND

Debate exists about whether neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder seronegative disease represents the same immune-mediated attack on astrocytic aquaporin-4 as in seropositive disease.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether response to common treatments for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder differed by serostatus, as assessed by change in annualized relapse rate.

METHODS

We performed a multicenter retrospective analysis of 245 patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder who were treated with either rituximab or mycophenolate mofetil as their first-line immunosuppressive treatment for disease prevention. Patients were followed for a minimum of 6 months following treatment initiation.

RESULTS

In those started on rituximab, the pre-treatment annualized relapse rates for seropositive and seronegative patients were 1.81 and 1.93, respectively. On-treatment annualized relapse rates significantly declined to 0.32 (seropositive; p < 0.0001) and 0.12 (seronegative; p = 0.0001). In those started on mycophenolate mofetil, the pre-treatment annualized relapse rates for seropositive and seronegative patients were 1.79 and 1.45, respectively. On-treatment annualized relapse rates declined to 0.29 (seropositive; p < 0.0001) and 0.30 (seronegative; p < 0.005).

CONCLUSION

In this international collaboration involving a large number of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients, treatment was effective regardless of serostatus. This suggests that treatment should not differ when considering these treatments.

Neuromyelitis Spectrum Disorders

The understanding of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) has evolved substantially since its initial description over a century ago. The discovery in 2004 of a pathogenic autoantibody biomarker targeting aquaporin 4 IgG revolutionized diagnosis and therapeutic development. Although NMOSD resembles multiple sclerosis (MS), differences were identified and articulated in the late 1990s. New diagnostic criteria incorporating the biomarker as well as better understanding of the clinical and radiologic features of NMOSD now permit accurate diagnosis and differentiation from MS. Aquaporin 4 IgG-associated NMOSD is now regarded as an immune astrocytopathy with lytic and nonlytic effects on astrocytes. A second autoantibody, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein IgG, which targets myelin rather than astrocytes, leads to an NMOSD syndrome with clinical and radiologic features that overlap but are distinct from those of aquaporin 4 IgG-associated NMOSD and MS. We review current understanding of the clinical aspects, pathophysiology, and treatment of NMOSD.

Female hormonal exposures and neuromyelitis optica symptom onset in a multicenter study

Objective:

To study the association between hormonal exposures and disease onset in a cohort of women with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).

Methods:

Reproductive history and hormone use were assessed using a standardized reproductive survey administered to women with NMOSD (82% aquaporin-4 antibody positive) at 8 clinical centers. Using multivariable regression, we examined the association between reproductive exposures and age at first symptom onset (FS).

Results:

Among 217 respondents, the mean age at menarche was 12.8 years (SD 1.7). The mean number of pregnancies was 2.1 (SD 1.6), including 0.3 (SD 0.7) occurring after onset of NMOSD symptoms. In the 117 participants who were postmenopausal at the time of the questionnaire, 70% reported natural menopause (mean age: 48.9 years [SD 3.9]); fewer than 30% reported systemic hormone therapy (HT) use. Mean FS age was 40.1 years (SD 14.2). Ever-use of systemic hormonal contraceptives (HC) was marginally associated with earlier FS (39 vs 43 years, p = 0.05). Because HC use may decrease parity, when we included both variables in the model, the association between HC use and FS age became more significant (estimate = 2.7, p = 0.007). Among postmenopausal participants, 24% reported NMOSD onset within 2 years of (before or after) menopause. Among these participants, there was no association between age at menopause or HT use and age at NMOSD onset.

Conclusions:

Overall, age at NMOSD onset did not show a strong relationship with endogenous hormonal exposures. An earlier onset age did appear to be marginally associated with systemic HC exposure, an association that requires confirmation in future studies.

Ring-enhancing spinal cord lesions in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the frequency and characteristics of ring-enhancing spinal cord lesions in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) myelitis and myelitis of other cause.

METHODS

We reviewed spinal cord MRIs for ring-enhancing lesions from 284 aquaporin-4 (AQP4)-IgG seropositive patients at Mayo Clinic from 1996 to 2014. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) AQP4-IgG seropositivity, (2) myelitis attack and (3) MRI spinal cord demonstrating ring-enhancement. We identified two groups of control patients with: (1) longitudinally extensive myelopathy of other cause (n=66) and (2) myelitis in the context of a concurrent or subsequent diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) from a population-based cohort (n=30).

RESULTS

Ring-enhancement was detected in 50 of 156 (32%) myelitis episodes in 41 patients (83% single; 17% multiple attacks). Ring-enhancement was noted on sagittal and axial images in 36 of 43 (84%) ring enhancing myelitis episodes and extended a median of two vertebral segments (range, 1-12); in 21 of 48 (44%) ring enhancing myelitis episodes, the ring extended greater than or equal to three vertebrae. Ring-enhancement was accompanied by longitudinally extensive (greater than or equal to three vertebral segments) T2-hyperintensity in 44 of 50 (88%) ring enhancing myelitis episodes. One case of a spinal cord biopsy during ring-enhancing myelitis revealed tissue vacuolation and loss of AQP4 immunoreactivity with preserved axons. The clinical characteristics of ring-enhancing myelitis episodes did not differ from non-ring-enhancing episodes. Ring-enhancing spinal cord lesions were more common in NMOSD than other causes of longitudinally extensive myelopathy (50/156 (32%) vs 0/66 (0%); p≤0.001) but did not differ between NMOSD and MS (50/156 (32%) vs 6/30 (20%); p=0.20).

CONCLUSIONS

Spinal cord ring-enhancement accompanies one-third of NMOSD myelitis episodes and distinguishes NMOSD from other causes of longitudinally extensive myelopathies but not from MS.

The contemporary spectrum of multiple sclerosis misdiagnosis: A multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

To characterize patients misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).

METHODS

Neurologists at 4 academic MS centers submitted data on patients determined to have been misdiagnosed with MS.

RESULTS

Of 110 misdiagnosed patients, 51 (46%) were classified as "definite" and 59 (54%) "probable" misdiagnoses according to study definitions. Alternate diagnoses included migraine alone or in combination with other diagnoses 24 (22%), fibromyalgia 16 (15%), nonspecific or nonlocalizing neurologic symptoms with abnormal MRI 13 (12%), conversion or psychogenic disorders 12 (11%), and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder 7 (6%). Duration of misdiagnosis was 10 years or longer in 36 (33%) and an earlier opportunity to make a correct diagnosis was identified for 79 patients (72%). Seventy-seven (70%) received disease-modifying therapy and 34 (31%) experienced unnecessary morbidity because of misdiagnosis. Four (4%) participated in a research study of an MS therapy. Leading factors contributing to misdiagnosis were consideration of symptoms atypical for demyelinating disease, lack of corroborative objective evidence of a CNS lesion as satisfying criteria for MS attacks, and overreliance on MRI abnormalities in patients with nonspecific neurologic symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Misdiagnosis of MS leads to unnecessary and potentially harmful risks to patients. Misinterpretation and misapplication of MS clinical and radiographic diagnostic criteria are important contemporary contributors to misdiagnosis.

Disease modifying therapies for relapsing multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common, disabling, putatively autoimmune neurological disease with worldwide distribution. It typically begins as a relapsing disorder that later evolves to a secondary progressive phase. Inflammatory and neurodegenerative mechanisms seem to operate in both phases, but their relative contributions and interactions are incompletely understood. Disease modifying therapies (DMTs) approved for relapsing multiple sclerosis interfere with a variety of immunological mechanisms to reduce rates of relapse, accumulation of disease burden measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and decline in neurological function over the two to three year duration of typical randomized controlled trials. Benefits of longer duration of therapy on disability are less clear, as data beyond three years are largely limited to observational studies. However, current DMTs do not slow accrual of disability once progressive multiple sclerosis is established. This review summarizes the evidence about the use of approved DMTs and examines how to individualize treatment despite the absence of validated biomarkers to guide drug selection. Methods such as stratifying patients on the basis of estimated risk for future disability, weighing patient specific factors and preferences, and using objective outcomes to adjudicate treatment success are discussed. Emerging drug therapies and strategies are also reviewed.