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Serum neurofilament light for detecting disease activity in individual patients in multiple sclerosis: A 48-week prospective single-center study Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-14 M Johnsson, YT Stenberg, HH Farman, K Blennow, H Zetterberg, C Malmeström, S Sandgren, I Rosenstein, J Lycke, M Axelsson, L Novakova
Background:Serum neurofilament light (sNfL) reflects neuroaxonal damage and is now used as an outcome in treatment trials of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). However, the diagnostic properties of sNfL for monitoring disease activity in individual patients warrant further investigations.Method:Patients with suspected relapse and/or contrast-enhancing lesions (CELs) were consecutively included
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Choroid plexus volume differentiates MS from its mimics Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-14 Elle Levit, Zheng Ren, Virgilio Gonzenbach, Christina J Azevedo, Peter A Calabresi, Bruce AC Cree, Leorah Freeman, Erin E Longbrake, Jiwon Oh, Matthew K Schindler, Nancy L Sicotte, Daniel S Reich, Daniel Ontaneda, Pascal Sati, Quy Cao, Russell T Shinohara, Andrew J Solomon
This study aimed to determine whether choroid plexus volume (CPV) could differentiate multiple sclerosis (MS) from its mimics. A secondary analysis of two previously enrolled studies, 50 participants with MS and 64 with alternative diagnoses were included. CPV was automatically segmented from 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), followed by manual review to remove misclassified tissue. Mean normalized
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Non-inferiority analysis of subcutaneous versus intravenous 300 mg monthly natalizumab administration: A post hoc analysis of the REFINE study Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-14 Fabrizia Mealli, Alessandra Mattei, Alice Mariottini, Luca Massacesi
To quantify the probability that monthly intravenous (IV) and subcutaneous (SC) natalizumab (NTZ) had similar efficacy in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), non-inferiority of efficacy of NTZ-SC versus NTZ-IV on combined MRI unique active lesions number (CUAL) was explored re-analysing the REFINE data set. Non-inferiority margins were selected equal to 25%/33%/50% fractions of the effect
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Natalizumab reduces loss of gray matter and thalamic volume in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: A post hoc analysis from the randomized, placebo-controlled AFFIRM trial Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-12 Kunio Nakamura, Zhaonan Sun, Claire Hara-Cleaver, Karthik Bodhinathan, Robin L Avila
Background:Loss of brain gray matter fractional volume predicts multiple sclerosis (MS) progression and is associated with worsening physical and cognitive symptoms. Within deep gray matter, thalamic damage is evident in early stages of MS and correlates with physical and cognitive impairment. Natalizumab is a highly effective treatment that reduces disease progression and the number of inflammatory
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Letter to the editor: Mobile health interventions in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-11 Rainer Ehling, Barbara Seebacher, Christian Brenneis
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Iatrogenic myelodysplastic syndrome complicating multiple sclerosis: A case report Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-09 Konrad Kubicki, Dusan Stefoski
After 1.5 years of treatment with dimethyl fumarate (DMF) for multiple sclerosis, preceded 8 years earlier by intravenous (IV) cladribine and 1 year earlier by natalizumab, our patient developed myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). The initial manifestation was a severe drop in absolute neutrophil and lymphocyte counts. Repeat bone marrow biopsy demonstrated a new unbalanced translocation (between the chromosome
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Expert opinion on the use of contraception in people with multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-08 Jan Hillert, Riley Bove, Lisa B Haddad, Kerstin Hellwig, Maria Houtchens, Melinda Magyari, Gabriele S Merki-Feld, Scott Montgomery, Rossella E Nappi, Egon Stenager, Heidi Thompson, Zeliha Tulek, Elisabetta Verdun Di Cantogno, Manuela Simoni
Background:Current guidance on the selection of appropriate contraception for people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) is lacking.Objective:To address this gap, an expert-led consensus program developed recommendations to support clinicians in discussing family planning and contraception with women and men with multiple sclerosis (MS).Methods:A multidisciplinary steering committee (SC) of 13 international
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Impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy and fetal outcomes in women with multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-08 Maria Grazia Aprea, Irene Schiavetti, Emilio Portaccio, Chiara Ballerini, Simona Bonavita, Maria Buscarinu, Massimiliano Calabrese, Paola Cavalla, Maria Cellerino, Cinzia Cordioli, Vincenzo Dattola, Stefano De Biase, Ermelinda De Meo, Roberta Fantozzi, Antonio Gallo, Luigi Iasevoli, Rana Karabudak, Doriana Landi, Lorena Lorefice, Lucia Moiola, Paolo Ragonese, Francesca Ruscica, Sedat Sen, Leonardo
Background:In the general population, maternal COVID-19 is associated with worse maternal and fetal outcomes. Two previous studies have assessed COVID-19 clinical outcomes in pregnant women with multiple sclerosis (MS), but there are no data about maternal and fetal outcomes.Objectives:In this multicenter study, we aimed to assess maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant women with MS and COVID-19 infection
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Tick-borne illnesses in patients treated with B-cell depleting agents: Considerations for neurologists Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-07 Hamza Coban
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Aspergillus myelitis: Breaking the mold to make a diagnosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-07 Eoin P Flanagan
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Efficacy and safety results after >3.5 years of treatment with the Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor evobrutinib in relapsing multiple sclerosis: Long-term follow-up of a Phase II randomised clinical trial with a cerebrospinal fluid sub-study Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-04 Xavier Montalban, Karolina Piasecka-Stryczynska, Jens Kuhle, Pascal Benkert, Douglas L Arnold, Martin S Weber, Andrea Seitzinger, Hans Guehring, Jamie Shaw, Davorka Tomic, Yann Hyvert, Danielle E Harlow, Martin Dyroff, Jerry S Wolinsky
Background:Evobrutinib – an oral, central nervous system (CNS)-penetrant, and highly selective Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor – has shown efficacy in a 48-week, double-blind, Phase II trial in patients with relapsing MS.Objective:Report results of the Phase II open-label extension (OLE; up to week 192 from randomisation) and a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sub-study.Methods:In the 48-week double-blind
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Bexarotene leads to durable improvements in visual evoked potential latency: A follow-up study of the Cambridge Centre for Myelin Repair One trial Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-01 Christopher E McMurran, Trisha Mukherjee, J William L Brown, Alasdair J Coles, Nick G Cunniffe
The Cambridge Centre for Myelin Repair One (CCMR-One) trial showed that 6 months of bexarotene reduces visual evoked potential (VEP) latency in people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). In a single-centre follow-up study of these participants, we re-examined full-field VEP and clinical assessments. Twenty participants (12 bexarotene and 8 placebo) were seen on average 27 months after
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Increased levels of circulating soluble CD226 in multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-01 Saniya Kari, Florence Bucciarelli, Thibault Angles, Anne-Cecile Oster, Pauline Cauboue, Karl Laviolette, Madeline Mougenot, Elena Morandi, Isabelle Bernard, Beatrice Pignolet, Chloé Bost, Joelle Thomas, Leonor Nogueira, Abdelhadi Saoudi, Roland Liblau, Anne L Astier
Background:The glycoprotein CD226 plays a key role in regulating immune cell function. Soluble CD226 (sCD226) is increased in sera of patients with several chronic inflammatory diseases but its levels in neuroinflammatory diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) are unknown.Objective:To investigate the presence and functional implications of sCD226 in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) and other
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SUNCT syndrome secondary to multiple sclerosis: Not only trigeminal neuralgia Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-01 Giada Giuliani, Chiara Zilli, Francesca Caramia, Vittorio Di Piero, Marta Altieri
Background:Facial pain in multiple sclerosis is often due to trigeminal neuralgia but atypical pictures can be observed.Case presentation:A man with primary progressive multiple sclerosis developed severe unilateral facial pain in the right orbital region. Spontaneous and triggered attacks were associated with ipsilateral conjunctival injection and lacrimation. A diagnosis of short-lasting unilateral
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Neoehrlichiosis associated with ocrelizumab in a patient with multiple sclerosis: A case report Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-03-01 Raja Majid Afzal, Jeppe Romme Christensen, Rosa Maja Møhring Gynthersen, Anne-Mette Lebech, Morten Blinkenberg, Helene Mens
Objective:To describe a case of neoehrlichiosis, an emerging opportunistic tick-borne infection, in a patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated with ocrelizumab.Methods:This is a case study.Results:Our patient developed clinical infection over several months while on ocrelizumab and was ultimately diagnosed with neoehrlichiosis, caused by the bacteria Neoehrlichia mikurensis. Resolution of symptoms
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Limited utility of adding 3T cervical spinal cord MRI to monitor disease activity in multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-29 Timothy Reynold U Lim, Sunitha P Kumaran, Suradech Suthiphosuwan, Adrian I Espiritu, Ashley Jones, Amy Wei Lin, Jiwon Oh, Aditya Bharatha
Background:Performing routine brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is widely accepted as the standard of care for disease monitoring in multiple sclerosis (MS), but the utility of performing routine spinal cord (SC) MRI for this purpose is still debatable.Objective:This study aimed to measure the frequency of new isolated cervical spinal cord lesions (CSLs) in people with MS (pwMS) undergoing routine
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Reply: Mobile health interventions in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-29 Christoph Heesen, Dagmar Lühmann
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BCG vaccination and multiple sclerosis risk: A Norwegian cohort study Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-28 Ola Nakken, Jan Harald Aarseth, Stig Wergeland, Hein Stigum, Haakon E Meyer, Trygve Holmøy
Introduction:Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccination induces long-lasting effects on the adaptive and innate immune systems and prevents development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and possibly also inflammatory disease activity in multiple sclerosis (MS).Objective:The objective is to examine if BCG given in early adulthood decreases MS risk.Methods:From 791,369 (52% females) Norwegians
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Dissemination in time as a requirement for diagnosis of multiple sclerosis: Time for a change? Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-27 Aaron E Miller
The requirement to demonstrate dissemination in time (DIT) in order to diagnose multiple sclerosis (MS) has been enshrined in the literature since earliest efforts to establish diagnostic critera. However, various diagnostic criteria over the years, including the 2017 McDonald criteria, have inconsistently utilized this concept. This Viewpoint contends that current criteria for DIT are inadequate and
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The impact of social distancing measures on anti–JC virus serostatus changes before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in US patients with multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-26 Stephen C Krieger, Susie Sinks, Furong Huang, Julie Steverson, Tamar J Kalina, Kurt White, Robin L Avila
Background:The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic offered an epidemiological opportunity to evaluate if isolation and masking affected John Cunningham (JC) virus transmission.Objective:This study aimed to assess the proportion of natalizumab-treated patients who converted to a positive anti-JCV antibody serostatus before and during the pandemic.Methods:Data from TYSABRI Outreach: Unified
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T1/T2-weighted ratio: A feasible MRI biomarker in multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-23 Mateus Boaventura, Jaume Sastre-Garriga, Carolina de Medeiros Rimkus, Àlex Rovira, Deborah Pareto
T1/T2-weighted ratio is a novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) biomarker based on conventional sequences, related to microstructural integrity and with increasing use in multiple sclerosis (MS) research. Different from other advanced MRI techniques, this method has the advantage of being based on routinely acquired MRI sequences, a feature that enables analysis of retrospective cohorts with considerable
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Psoriasiform dermatitis following ocrelizumab in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: Case report and literature review Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-22 Callanan Emma, Petkova Vesela, Polly Kay, Huseyin Huseyin, Hassett Alison, Sittampalam Mara, De Angelis Floriana, Collorone Sara
We present a case of a 30-year-old man with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis who developed psoriasiform dermatitis following his second course of ocrelizumab. This resolved with topical therapies and discontinuation of treatment. Cases of psoriasiform rashes have been increasingly reported in the use of ocrelizumab and are possibly due to B-cell (CD20) depletion and T-cell overregulation. Nevertheless
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Psoriasisform dermatitis following anti-CD20 therapies: Immunologic lessons and management dilemmas Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-22 Steffen Pfeuffer
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Responsiveness to pembrolizumab in severe early-onset natalizumab associated PML-IRIS in patient with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-22 Merve Bahar Ercan, Belgin Kocer, Taylan Altiparmak, Ilker Arslan
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A US payer perspective health economic model assessing value of monitoring disease activity to inform discontinuation and re-initiation of DMT in multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-20 Kian Jalaleddini, Robert A Bermel, Bari Talente, David Weinstein, Ferhan Qureshi, Maital Rasmussen, Sreeranjani Menon, Miyuru Amarapala, Kesshi Jordan, Ati Ghoreyshi, Shannon McCurdy, Mike Edgeworth
Objectives:We evaluate the potential clinical and cost impacts of discontinuing disease-modifying therapy (DMT) in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) when age-related immunosenescence can reduce DMT efficacy while increasing associated risks.Methods:A Markov model simulated clinical and cost impacts to the patient and payers when a proportion of eligible patients with relapsing remitting multiple
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2.5-Year changes of connectivity dynamism are relevant for physical and cognitive deterioration in multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-19 Maria A Rocca, Giulia D’Amore, Paola Valsasina, Nicolò Tedone, Alessandro Meani, Massimo Filippi
Background:In MS, functional connectivity (FC) dynamism may influence disease evolution.Objectives:The objective is to assess time-varying functional connectivity (TVFC) changes over time at 2.5-year follow-up in MS patients according to physical and cognitive worsening.Methods:We collected 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for TVFC assessment (performed using sliding-window analysis of centrality)
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Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for depressed individuals with multiple sclerosis: A pilot study Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-19 Marco Rovaris, Elena Toselli, Laura Mendozzi, Sonia Di Tella, Alice Pirastru, Valeria Blasi, Francesca Baglio, Luca Ostacoli, Alessandra D’Abramo, Alessia Incerti, Isabel Fernandez, Francesco Pagnini, Cesare Cavalera
Background:Multiple studies have highlighted elevated rates of depression among individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), with its associated symptoms posing a significant threat to overall well-being. Moreover, existing literature suggests a potential interconnection between depressive manifestations and the decline of physical functionalities in the context of MS.Objective:to examine the viability
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What contributes to disability in progressive MS? A brain and cervical cord–matched quantitative MRI study Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-19 Carmen Tur, Marco Battiston, Marios C Yiannakas, Sara Collorone, Alberto Calvi, Ferran Prados, Baris Kanber, Francesco Grussu, Antonio Ricciardi, Patrizia Pajak, Daniele Martinelli, Torben Schneider, Olga Ciccarelli, Rebecca S Samson, Claudia AM Gandini Wheeler-Kingshott
Background:We assessed the ability of a brain-and-cord-matched quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) protocol to differentiate patients with progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) from controls, in terms of normal-appearing (NA) tissue abnormalities, and explain disability.Methods:A total of 27 patients and 16 controls were assessed on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), 25-foot timed
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Paramagnetic rim lesions predict greater long-term relapse rates and clinical progression over 10 years Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-17 Jack A Reeves, Maryam Mohebbi, Taylor Wicks, Fahad Salman, Alexander Bartnik, Dejan Jakimovski, Niels Bergsland, Ferdinand Schweser, Bianca Weinstock-Guttman, Michael G Dwyer, Robert Zivadinov
Background:Paramagnetic rim lesions (PRLs) have been linked to higher clinical disease severity and relapse frequency. However, it remains unclear whether PRLs predict future, long-term disease progression.Objectives:The study aimed to assess whether baseline PRLs were associated with subsequent long-term (10 years) Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) increase and relapse frequency and, if so,
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A custom-built step exergame training programme to prevent falls in people with multiple sclerosis: A multicentre randomised controlled trial Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-16 Phu Hoang, Daina L Sturnieks, Anna Butler, Carly Chaplin, Cameron Hicks, Joanne Lo, Mayna Ratanapongleka, Sophie Robinson, Natassia Smith, Jessica Turner, Arun V Krishnan, Michael Barnett, Simon Gandevia, Stephen R Lord, Jasmine C Menant
Background:Cognitive-motor step training can improve stepping, balance and mobility in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), but effectiveness in preventing falls has not been demonstrated.Objectives:This multisite randomised controlled trial aimed to determine whether 6 months of home-based step exergame training could reduce falls and improve associated risk factors compared with usual care in people
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Cancer and multiple sclerosis: 2023 recommendations from the French Multiple Sclerosis Society Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-15 Nicolas Collongues, Françoise Durand-Dubief, Christine Lebrun-Frenay, Bertrand Audoin, Xavier Ayrignac, Caroline Bensa, Kévin Bigaut, Bertrand Bourre, Clarisse Carra-Dallière, Jonathan Ciron, Gilles Defer, Arnaud Kwiatkowski, Emmanuelle Leray, Elisabeth Maillart, Romain Marignier, Guillaume Mathey, Nathalie Morel, Eric Thouvenot, Hélène Zéphir, Julie Boucher, Clémence Boutière, Pierre Branger, Angélique
Background:Epidemiological data reveal that 45% of persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) in France are more than 50 years. This population more than 50 is more susceptible to cancer, and this risk may be increased by frequent use of immunosuppressive drugs. Consequently, concerns have arisen about the potential increased risk of cancer in PwMS and how patients should be screened and managed in terms
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VISIBL-MS: A bilingual educational framework to increase awareness of early multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-15 Shivam Patel, Seamus Rafferty, Laura Aquino, Saloni Chadha, Richard Ginocchio, Brooke Cyr, Joshua Fedorko, Jaime Imitola
Background:Despite advancements in treatments of multiple sclerosis (MS), there is a lack of awareness of early MS symptoms, especially in students and the public, contributing to delays in diagnosis and treatment. This review aims to identify gaps in tools to increase awareness and to provide a bilingual framework to facilitate recognition of early MS symptoms.Methods:We performed a literature review
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Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for multiple sclerosis: Long-term follow-up data from Norway Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-12 Christopher Elnan Kvistad, Anne Kristine Lehmann, Silje Agnethe Stokke Kvistad, Trygve Holmøy, Åslaug Rudjord Lorentzen, Linn Hereide Trovik, Einar Klæboe Kristoffersen, Lars Bø, Øivind Torkildsen
Background:Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a potent treatment option for patients with aggressive relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).Objective:To evaluate long-term outcomes of HSCT in MS.Methods:National retrospective single-center observational study of patients with aggressive RRMS that underwent HSCT in Norway from January 2015 to January 2018. Criteria for
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Drop-out, adherence, and compliance in randomized controlled trials of exercise training in multiple sclerosis: Short report Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-09 Robert W Motl, Daniel I Russell, Lara A Pilutti, Alexandra P Metse, Claudia H Marck, Bryan Chan, Peixuan Zheng, Yvonne C Learmonth
We documented reporting and rates of drop-out, adherence, and compliance from 40 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included in our meta-analysis on safety of exercise training (ET) in MS. We adopted definitions and metrics of adherence and compliance provided by the MoXFo adherence group. Drop-out was reported in 100% of the RCTs and approximated 10% for intervention and control conditions. Adherence
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Disentangling multiple sclerosis phenotypes through Mendelian disorders: A network approach Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-09 Gianmarco Bellucci, Maria Chiara Buscarinu, Roberta Reniè, Virginia Rinaldi, Rachele Bigi, Rosella Mechelli, Silvia Romano, Marco Salvetti, Giovanni Ristori
Background:The increasing knowledge about multiple sclerosis (MS) pathophysiology has reinforced the need for an improved description of disease phenotypes, connected to disease biology. Growing evidence indicates that complex diseases constitute phenotypical and genetic continuums with “simple,” monogenic disorders, suggesting shared pathomechanisms.Objectives:The objective of this study was to depict
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Gene–environment interactions: Epstein–Barr virus infection and risk of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-09 Amin Ziaei, Olivia Solomon, T Charles Casper, Michael Waltz, Bianca Weinstock-Guttman, Greg Aaen, Yolanda Wheeler, Jennifer Graves, Leslie Benson, Mark Gorman, Mary Rensel, Soe Mar, Tim Lotze, Benjamin Greenberg, Tanuja Chitnis, Amy T Waldman, Lauren Krupp, Judith A James, Janace Hart, Lisa F Barcellos, Emmanuelle Waubant
Background and Objective:Prior Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection is associated with an increased risk of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) and adult-onset multiple sclerosis (MS). It has been challenging to elucidate the biological mechanisms underlying this association. We examined the interactions between candidate human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and non-HLA variants and childhood EBV infection
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Real-world data on siponimod-related lymphopenia among people with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-07 Christopher GS Gilmartin, Natasha Hoyle, Afagh Garjani, Terri Dixon, Helena Jos, David Paling, Wallace Brownlee, Christopher Tench, Nikos Evangelou
Background:Siponimod-related lymphopenia in real-world clinical practice has implications for dose adjustment and infection risk.Objective:To characterise siponimod-related lymphopenia in people with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (pwSPMS).Methods:This is a retrospective cohort of 188 pwSPMS. The development of grade 4 lymphopenia was interrogated with Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and binary
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Longitudinal enlargement of choroid plexus is associated with chronic lesion expansion and neurodegeneration in RRMS patients Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-06 Samuel Klistorner, Michael H Barnett, Chenyu Wang, John Parratt, Con Yiannikas, Alexander Klistorner
Background and Objective:We explored dynamic changes in the choroid plexus (CP) in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and assessed its relationship with chronic lesion expansion and atrophy in various brain compartments.Methods:Fifty-seven RRMS patients were annually assessed for a minimum of 48 months with 3D FLAIR, pre- and post-contrast 3D T1 and diffusion-weighted magnetic
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Effectiveness of immunotherapies in relapsing myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-02-05 Philippe Antoine Bilodeau, Anastasia Vishnevetsky, Negar Molazadeh, Itay Lotan, Monique Anderson, Gabriela Romanow, Rebecca Salky, Brian C Healy, Marcelo Matiello, Tanuja Chitnis, Michael Levy
Background:Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) can cause optic neuritis, transverse myelitis, or acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM). Immunotherapy is often used for relapsing disease, but there is variability in treatment decisions.Objective:The objective was to determine the annualized relapse rates (ARRs) and incidence rate ratios (IRRs) compared to pre-treatment
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Ibudilast reduces slowly enlarging lesions in progressive multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-30 Kunio Nakamura, Bhaskar Thoomukuntla, James Bena, Jeffrey A Cohen, Robert J Fox, Daniel Ontaneda
Background:Ibudilast has shown beneficial effects on several imaging outcomes in progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). Slowly enlarging lesions are a proposed imaging biomarker of compartmentalized inflammation within chronic active lesions.Objective:To assess the treatment effect of ibudilast on slowly enlarging lesion volumes over 96 weeks from a phase II clinical trial of ibudilast (Secondary and
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Use of multiple sclerosis disease-modifying therapies during pregnancy in France: Nationwide study between 2010 and 2021 Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-28 Morgane Swital, Jérôme Drouin, Sara Miranda, Serge Bakchine, Jérémie Botton, Rosemary Dray-Spira
Background:Multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently affects women of childbearing age and pregnant women.Objective:To assess the use of MS disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) during pregnancy in France over the last decade, marked by an increasing DMTs availability.Methods:All pregnancies ended from April 2010 to December 2021 in women with MS were identified based on the nationwide Mother–Child Register
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Prevalence of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder in the United States Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-27 Farren BS Briggs, Jacqueline Shaia
Background:Neuromyelitis optic spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare demyelinating, autoimmune disease and the burden in United States is not well characterized.Objective:The objective of this study was to determine the 2022 US prevalence of NMOSD.Methods:We constructed a cross-sectional study using aggregated electronic health record data for 25.7 million patients who had a 2022 clinical encounter.
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White matter paramagnetic rim and non-rim lesions share a periventricular gradient in multiple sclerosis: A 7-T imaging study Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-27 Alessandro Miscioscia, Constantina A Treaba, Valeria T Barletta, Elena Herranz, Jacob A Sloane, Elena Barbuti, Caterina Mainero
Background:Paramagnetic rim white matter (WM) lesions (PRL) are thought to be a main driver of non-relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) progression. It is unknown whether cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-soluble factors diffusing from the ventricles contribute to PRL formation.Objective:To investigate the distribution of PRL and non-rim brain WM lesions as a function of distance from ventricular CSF, their relationship
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Use of pragmatic randomized trials in multiple sclerosis: A systematic overview Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-23 Julian Hirt, Perrine Janiaud, Pascal Düblin, Giovanni Jacopo Nicoletti, Kinga Dembowska, Thao Vy Thi Nguyen, Tim Woelfle, Cathrine Axfors, Özgür Yaldizli, Cristina Granziera, Jens Kuhle, Ludwig Kappos, Lars G Hemkens
Background:Pragmatic trials are increasingly recognized for providing real-world evidence on treatment choices.Objective:The objective of this study is to investigate the use and characteristics of pragmatic trials in multiple sclerosis (MS).Methods:Systematic literature search and analysis of pragmatic trials on any intervention published up to 2022. The assessment of pragmatism with PRECIS-2 (PRagmatic
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The absence of antibodies in longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis may predict a more favourable prognosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-23 Chiara Rocchi, Mirasol Forcadela, Patricia Kelly, Samantha Linaker, Emily Gibbons, Maneesh Bhojak, Anu Jacob, Shahd Hamid, Saif Huda
Background:Isolated first episodes of longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) have typically been associated with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) or myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody–associated disease (MOGAD). However, in some cases, serological testing and screening for other aetiologies are negative, a condition referred to as double seronegative longitudinally
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Clinical impact of gender and age at onset on disease trajectory in primary progressive multiple sclerosis patients Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-22 Sebastian Camerlingo, Fernando Rubinstein, Maria Celia Ysrraelit, Jorge Correale, Edgar Carnero Contentti, Juan I Rojas, Liliana Patrucco, Felisa del Valle Leguizamon, Veronica Tkachuk, Nora Fernandez Liguori, Edgardo Cristiano, Carolina Mainella, Gisela Zanga, Adriana Carra, Mariano Marrodan, Alejandra Diana Martinez, Berenice Anabel Silva, Ricardo Alonso
Background and Objectives:Primary-progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) is characterized by gradual neurological deterioration without relapses. This study aimed to investigate the clinical impact of gender and age at disease onset on disease progression and disability accumulation in patients with this disease phenotype.Methods:Secondary data from the RelevarEM registry, a longitudinal database in
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COVID-19 outcomes in patients with multiple sclerosis: Understanding changes from 2020 to 2022 Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-22 Lina Jeantin, Edouard Januel, Pierre Labauge, Elisabeth Maillart, Jérôme de Seze, Hélène Zéphir, Jean Pelletier, Philippe Kerschen, Damien Biotti, Olivier Heinzlef, Laurent Guilloton, Caroline Bensa, Marie Théaudin, Sandra Vukusic, Olivier Casez, Aude Maurousset, David Laplaud, Eric Berger, Christine Lebrun-Frenay, Bertrand Bourre, Pierre Branger, Bruno Stankoff, Pierre Clavelou, Eric Thouvenot, Eric
Background:Epidemiologic studies on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) have focused on the first waves of the pandemic until early 2021.Objectives:We aimed to extend these data from the onset of the pandemic to the global coverage by vaccination in summer 2022.Methods:This retrospective, multicenter observational study analyzed COVISEP registry data on reported
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Longitudinally extensive posterolateral myelitis revealing invasive CNS aspergillosis in an immunocompetent patient Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-22 Lina Jeantin, Delphine Leclercq, Suzanne Tran, Elisabeth Maillart, Vincent Reina, Arnaud Fekkar, Fanny Lanternier, Clémence Marois, Adam Celier
Background:Fungal infections of the central nervous system usually affect immunocompromised patients. Primary Aspergillus myelitis has never been described.Report:A 45-year-old immunocompetent male with subacute paraplegia was treated for inflammatory myelitis before clinical deterioration requiring mechanical ventilation. Purulent meningitis preceded the formation of a paraspinal nodule biopsied by
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Optic nerve topography in multiple sclerosis diagnostic criteria: Existing knowledge and future directions Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-20 Angela Vidal-Jordana, Jaume Sastre-Garriga, Mar Tintoré, Àlex Rovira, Xavier Montalban
Current diagnostic criteria for multiple sclerosis (MS) do not consider the optic nerve as a typical topography for establishing the diagnosis. Recent studies have proved the utility of optic nerve magnetic resonance imaging, optical coherence tomography and visual evoked potentials in detecting optic nerve lesions during the early stages of MS. In addition, emerging evidence supports the inclusion
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Recent trends in disease-modifying therapy use and associated sickness absence and disability pension among people with multiple sclerosis in Sweden Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-20 Fitsum Sebsibe Teni, Alejandra Machado, Katharina Fink, Hanna Gyllensten, Jan Hillert, Emilie Friberg
Background:Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have led to improved health and work productivity among people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).Objectives:To describe trajectories of recent DMT use and their association with sickness absence and/or disability pension (SADP) among PwMS in Sweden.Methods:A longitudinal register–based study was conducted among 1395 PwMS with treatment start in 2014/2015.
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Exploring the effects of extended interval dosing of natalizumab and drug concentrations on brain atrophy in multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-18 Alyssa A Toorop, Samantha Noteboom, Martijn D Steenwijk, Job W Gravendeel, Bas Jasperse, Frederik Barkhof, Eva MM Strijbis, Theo Rispens, Menno M Schoonheim, Zoé LE van Kempen, Joep Killestein
Background:Extended interval dosing (EID) of natalizumab treatment is increasingly used in multiple sclerosis. Besides the clear anti-inflammatory effect, natalizumab is considered to have neuroprotective properties as well.Objectives:This study aimed to study the longitudinal effects of EID compared to standard interval dosing (SID) and natalizumab drug concentrations on brain atrophy.Methods:Patients
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University education facilitates uptake of disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis: A community-based study using the UK MS Register Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-17 Joyutpal Das, David J Rog, Rod Middleton, Jeff W Rodgers, Richard Nicholas
Background:Higher education is associated with better job opportunities and higher income.Objectives:Herein, the impact of education on the uptake of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS) in a publicly funded health care system was examined using the UK MS Register.Methods:All adult participants with relapsing remitting MS diagnosed between 2008 and 2021 were included. Those
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Risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with fingolimod compared to natalizumab: A nationwide cohort study of 2095 patients in Denmark Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-11 Elisabeth Framke, Lau Caspar Thygesen, Morten Malmborg, Morten Schou, Finn Sellebjerg, Melinda Magyari
Background:Fingolimod may be associated with risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Studies including reference groups and long follow-up are scarce.Objectives:We hypothesized that patients treated with fingolimod would be at higher risk of developing CVD compared to patients treated with natalizumab.Methods:A nationwide 12-year cohort study linking individual-level data from the Danish Multiple
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The Response Study: A French registry on pregnancy in women with MS and related disorders and their children up to 6 years—Protocol, recruitment status, and baseline characteristics Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-11 Sandra Vukusic, Bertrand Bourre, Romain Casey, Kumaran Deiva, Anne-Marie Guennoc, Christine Lebrun-Frenay, Emmanuelle Leray, Fabien Rollot, Lakhdar Benyahya, Catherine Girod, Romain Marignier, Elisabeth Maillart
Background:Counseling on pregnancy is still challenging, particularly regarding the use of disease-modifying treatments (DMTs). We are lacking long-term outcomes in children exposed to DMTs.Objectives:This study aimed to set up a French pregnancy registry for women with multiple sclerosis (MS) and related disorders nested within the Observatoire Français de la Sclérose en Plaques (OFSEP) cohort.Methods:Prospective
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Association between demographics, socioeconomics, and disease-related factors and the perception of stigma in people with MS Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-05 Mahsa Ghajarzadeh, Kathryn C Fitzgerald, Ellen M Mowry, Bardia Nourbakhsh
Background:Stigma is prevalent among individuals with chronic diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and those with comorbid mental health disorders, but its associated factors are poorly understood.Objective:To investigate the prevalence and correlates of stigma in people living with MS.Methods:We analyzed data from the MS Partners Advancing Technology and Health Solutions (MS PATHS) network, which
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Control of disease activity with large extended-interval dosing of rituximab/ocrelizumab in highly active pediatric multiple sclerosis Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-03 Melany Venet, Anne Lepine, Adil Maarouf, Damien Biotti, Clémence Boutiere, Olivier Casez, Mikael Cohen, Pierre Durozard, Sarah Demortière, Laetitia Giorgi, Elisabeth Maillart, Guillaume Mathey, Laure Mazzola, Audrey Rico, Jean-Philippe Camdessanche, Kumaran Deiva, Jean Pelletier, Bertrand Audoin
Recent studies in adults suggested that extended-interval dosing of rituximab/ocrelizumab (RTX/OCR) larger than 12 months was safe and could improve safety. This was an observational cohort study of very active pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (PoMS) (median (range) age, 16 (12–17) years) treated with RTX/OCR with 6 month standard-interval dosing ( n = 9) or early extended-interval dosing ( n = 12
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Final analysis of 379 pregnancy outcomes after exposure to dimethyl fumarate in a prospective international registry Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2024-01-03 Kerstin Hellwig, David Rog, Christopher McGuigan, Maria K Houtchens, Denise R Bruen, Oksana Mokliatchouk, Filipe Branco, Seth Levin, Nicholas Everage, Xiaochen Lin
Background:Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) has a favorable benefit–risk profile treating people with multiple sclerosis and should be used in pregnant women only if the potential benefits outweigh potential risks to the fetus.Objective:Assess pregnancy outcomes in a completed international registry (TecGistry) of women with MS exposed to DMF.Methods:TecGistry included pregnant women with MS exposed to DMF
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Effectiveness of a blended booster programme for the long-term outcome of cognitive behavioural therapy for MS-related fatigue: A randomized controlled trial. Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2023-11-29 Marieke de Gier,Heleen Beckerman,Jos Wr Twisk,Hans Knoop,Vincent de Groot
BACKGROUND Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) reduces MS-related fatigue. However, studies on the long-term effects show inconsistent findings. OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether a blended booster programme improves the outcome of CBT for MS-related fatigue on fatigue severity at 1-year follow-up. METHOD A multicentre randomized clinical trial in which 126 patients with MS were allocated to either a booster
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Disease progression in the first 5 years of treatment in multiple sclerosis: Predictive value of early brain and lesion volume changes. Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2023-11-29 Rozemarijn M Mattiesing,Eline Kramer,Eva Mm Strijbis,Iman Brouwer,Ronald A van Schijndel,Giordano Gentile,Marco Battaglini,Nicola De Stefano,Bernard Mj Uitdehaag,Frederik Barkhof,Hugo Vrenken,Menno M Schoonheim
BACKGROUND Whether the degree of inflammation (and its resolution) and neurodegeneration after treatment initiation predicts disease progression in multiple sclerosis (MS) remains unclear. OBJECTIVES To assess the predictive value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-derived brain and lesion volume (LV) changes in years 1 and 2 of treatment for disease progression. METHODS Patients receiving early interferon
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Longitudinal evaluation of serum MOG-IgG titers in MOGAD after initiation of maintenance immunoglobulin: A case series. Mult. Scler. J. (IF 5.8) Pub Date : 2023-11-29 Shuvro Roy,Eleni Vasileiou,Paula Barreras,Gelareh Ahmadi,Haiwen Chen,William Suslovic,Alexandra Kornbluh,Ilana Kahn,Elias S Sotirchos
BACKGROUND Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) is a distinct demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Immunoglobulin (Ig) has been used as a maintenance therapy to prevent relapses in MOGAD, but the impact of Ig on serum MOG-IgG titers is unclear. OBJECTIVE To characterize the variation in serum MOG-IgG titers after initiation of Ig treatment in people