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Dong GY, Meng YH, Xiao XJ. A meta-analysis on efficacy and safety of rituximab for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30347. [PMID: 36086713 PMCID: PMC10980488 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess the efficacy and safety of rituximab (RTX) in the treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum diseases (NMOSDs), and give a guideline on clinical medication. METHODS The databases of Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, and Wan fang were systematically searched by computer, and the search period was from the establishment of the databases until January 2022. To collect the trials of RTX in the treatment of NMOSDs, two researchers completed literature screening, quality assessment, and data extraction independently. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.3 and Stata 15.1 software. RESULTS There were 37 studies in the meta-analysis, including 5 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 32 observational studies. Meta-analysis results revealed that NMOSDs patients treated with RTX significantly reduced the annualized relapse rate (ARR) (weighted mean difference [WMD] = 1.45, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24-1.66, P < .01) and the Expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scores (WMD = 1.34, 95%CI: 1.25-1.44, P < .01). RTX is more effective than azathioprine (AZA) in the treatment of NMOSDs (ARR: WMD = -0.54, 95% CI: -0.75 to -0.33; EDSS: WMD = -0.65, 95% CI: -0.83 to -0.48; P < .0001).There was no difference in ARR and EDSS scores between anti-aquapor in-4-antibody seropositive NMOSD and seronegative NMOSD patients treated with RTX (ARR: WMD = -0.01, 95% CI: -0.25 to 0.24, P = .96 > 0.05; EDSS: WMD = 0, 95% CI: -0.30 to 0.31, P = .99 > 0.05). In this study, 681 patients were recorded safety data of RTX therapy, 23% (156 patients) had adverse events, and 0.7% (5 patients) of NMOSDs discontinued due to severe adverse reactions. CONCLUSIONS NMOSDs patients treated with RTX can significantly reduce the relapse frequency and EDSS scores, and also improve neurological dysfunction, besides the efficacy is better than azathioprine. RTX has a high incidence of adverse reactions, which are mild and with certain self limited, it should be cautious in clinical medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gu-Yi Dong
- Department of Neurology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yan-Hong Meng
- Department of Neurology, Kailuan General Hospital, Tangshan, China
| | - Xiang-Jian Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, China
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Chisari CG, Sgarlata E, Arena S, Toscano S, Luca M, Patti F. Rituximab for the treatment of multiple sclerosis: a review. J Neurol 2022; 269:159-183. [PMID: 33416999 PMCID: PMC7790722 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-020-10362-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
In the last decades, evidence suggesting the direct or indirect involvement of B cells on multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis has accumulated. The increased amount of data on the efficacy and safety of B-cell-depleting therapies from several studies has suggested the addition of these drugs as treatment options to the current armamentarium of disease modifying therapies (DMTs) for MS. Particularly, rituximab (RTX), a chimeric monoclonal antibody directed at CD20 positive B lymphocytes resulting in cell-mediated apoptosis, has been demonstrated to reduce inflammatory activity, incidence of relapses and new brain lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). Additional evidence also demonstrated that patients with progressive MS (PMS) may benefit from RTX, which also showed to be well tolerated, with acceptable safety risks and favorable cost-effectiveness profile.Despite these encouraging results, RTX is currently approved for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, several forms of vasculitis and rheumatoid arthritis, while it can only be administered off-label for MS treatment. Between Northern European countries exist different rules for using not licensed drug for treating MS. The Sweden MS register reports a high rate (53.5%) of off-label RTX prescriptions in relation to other annually started DMTs to treat MS patients, while Danish and Norwegian neurologists have to use other anti-CD20 drugs, as ocrelizumab, in most of the cases.In this paper, we review the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical efficacy, safety profile and cost effectiveness aspects of RTX for the treatment of MS. Particularly, with the approval of new anti-CD20 DMTs, the recent worldwide COVID-19 emergency and the possible increased risk of infection with this class of drugs, this review sheds light on the use of RTX as an alternative treatment option for MS management, while commenting the gaps of knowledge regarding this drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Grazia Chisari
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Eleonora Sgarlata
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Stroke Unit, Department of Medicine, Umberto I Hospital, Siracusa, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Arena
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Simona Toscano
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Luca
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Patti
- Department "GF Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Zhao S, Zhang K, Ren K, Lu J, Ma C, Zhao C, Li Z, Guo J. Clinical features, treatment and prognosis of MuSK antibody-associated myasthenia gravis in Northwest China: a single-centre retrospective cohort study. BMC Neurol 2021; 21:428. [PMID: 34732168 PMCID: PMC8567678 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-021-02439-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE To summarize the clinical characteristics of patients with muscle-specific kinase antibody-associated myasthenia gravis (MuSK-MG) and to evaluate the therapeutic responses to different treatment regimes. METHODS Eighteen MuSK-MG patients admitted in our department between October 2017 and September 2020 were included. Clinical parameters were collected and the responses to different immunosuppressive drugs were assessed by MGFA Postintervention Status (MGFA-PIS). Meanwhile, the correlation between QMG scores and MuSK antibody titers were analyzed and MuSK antibody (MuSK-ab) titers were compared before and after therapy based on different immunosuppressive treatment regimes. RESULTS Female predominance (ratio of females to males, 15:3) was evident in the study population, with the average onset age of (40.28 ± 18.57) years and the median disease course of 30.50 months (interquartile range [IQR], 17.50-44.75 months). Ocular manifestation was the most common onset symptom (11/18; 61.11%), and mild symmetrical ptosis was most frequent. Bulbar symptoms had the highest incidence of 88.89% over the entire disease course. Abnormal responses to RNS test were recorded most frequently on the musculus deltoideus (83.33%). All patients were treated with prednisone (Pred) alone or plus azathioprine (AZA), tacrolimus (TAC) or low-dose rituximab (RTX), and 17 (94.44%) of them achieved a favorable outcome defined as minimal manifestation (MM) or better. In general, an obvious positive correlation between QMG score and MuSK-ab titer (r = 0.710, P < 0.001) were found in all patients. A more significant reduction of MuSK-ab titers was observed in patients receiving TAC or RTX plus Pred than those receiving AZA plus Pred. CONCLUSIONS The prominent clinical manifestations of ocular and bulbar muscles involvements, together with abnormal RNS response mostly recorded on the musculus deltoideus and better efficacy associated with TAC or low-dose RTX plus Pred, provide a more exhaustive picture of MuSK-MG, particularly in Northwest China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, Xi'an, 710018, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Kaixi Ren
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jiarui Lu
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Chao Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Cong Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Zhuyi Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Jun Guo
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China.
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4
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Sechi E, Zarbo R, Biancu MA, Chessa P, Idda ML, Orrù V, Lai S, Leoni S, Solla P. Prolonged B-cell depletion after rituximab in AQP4-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 358:577666. [PMID: 34298341 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Rituximab (a B-cell depleting monoclonal antibody) is increasingly utilized for treatment of different immune-mediated neurologic disorders, including aquaporin-4-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-IgG-NMOSD). After an initial treatment course, the drug is generally reinfused when peripheral blood B-cells levels re-increase >1% (usually after 6-12 months), or at fixed pre-planned 6-month intervals. We describe the unusual case of a 40-year-old woman with AQP4-IgG-NMOSD who showed a prolonged B-cell depletion for nearly five years after a single rituximab reinfusion. In similar rare patients with exceptionally long-lasting B-cell depletion, rituximab reinfusions at fixed pre-planned intervals would result in unnecessary treatment-related risks and health-care expenses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elia Sechi
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Roberto Zarbo
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Angela Biancu
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Paola Chessa
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Idda
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Valeria Orrù
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Sandra Lai
- Istituto di Ricerca Genetica e Biomedica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Stefania Leoni
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Paolo Solla
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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5
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Zografou C, Vakrakou AG, Stathopoulos P. Short- and Long-Lived Autoantibody-Secreting Cells in Autoimmune Neurological Disorders. Front Immunol 2021; 12:686466. [PMID: 34220839 PMCID: PMC8248361 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.686466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
As B cells differentiate into antibody-secreting cells (ASCs), short-lived plasmablasts (SLPBs) are produced by a primary extrafollicular response, followed by the generation of memory B cells and long-lived plasma cells (LLPCs) in germinal centers (GCs). Generation of IgG4 antibodies is T helper type 2 (Th2) and IL-4, -13, and -10-driven and can occur parallel to IgE, in response to chronic stimulation by allergens and helminths. Although IgG4 antibodies are non-crosslinking and have limited ability to mobilize complement and cellular cytotoxicity, when self-tolerance is lost, they can disrupt ligand-receptor binding and cause a wide range of autoimmune disorders including neurological autoimmunity. In myasthenia gravis with predominantly IgG4 autoantibodies against muscle-specific kinase (MuSK), it has been observed that one-time CD20+ B cell depletion with rituximab commonly leads to long-term remission and a marked reduction in autoantibody titer, pointing to a short-lived nature of autoantibody-secreting cells. This is also observed in other predominantly IgG4 autoantibody-mediated neurological disorders, such as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and autoimmune encephalitis with autoantibodies against the Ranvier paranode and juxtaparanode, respectively, and extends beyond neurological autoimmunity as well. Although IgG1 autoantibody-mediated neurological disorders can also respond well to rituximab induction therapy in combination with an autoantibody titer drop, remission tends to be less long-lasting and cases where titers are refractory tend to occur more often than in IgG4 autoimmunity. Moreover, presence of GC-like structures in the thymus of myasthenic patients with predominantly IgG1 autoantibodies against the acetylcholine receptor and in ovarian teratomas of autoimmune encephalitis patients with predominantly IgG1 autoantibodies against the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) confers increased the ability to generate LLPCs. Here, we review available information on the short-and long-lived nature of ASCs in IgG1 and IgG4 autoantibody-mediated neurological disorders and highlight common mechanisms as well as differences, all of which can inform therapeutic strategies and personalized medical approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Zografou
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A G Vakrakou
- First Department of Neurology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - P Stathopoulos
- First Department of Neurology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
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6
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Li T, Zhang GQ, Li Y, Dong SA, Wang N, Yi M, Qi Y, Zhai H, Yang L, Shi FD, Yang CS. Efficacy and safety of different dosages of rituximab for refractory generalized AChR myasthenia gravis: A meta-analysis. J Clin Neurosci 2021; 85:6-12. [PMID: 33581791 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2020.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rituximab (RTX) is a mouse-human chimeric anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody and has been increasingly used for preventing relapses in myasthenia gravis (MG). However, the appropriate dose for maximizing the beneficial effects in refractory MG with acetylcholine receptor (AChR) autoantibody is a long-standing and critical debating question. METHODS We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the different doses of RTX in 260 refractory AChR-MG patients. RESULTS The AChR-MG patients were divided into low or routine RTX dose groups. An overall proportion of 77% (p = 0.000) AChR-MG patients demonstrated improved clinical status as indicated by the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America post-intervention scale (MGFA-PIS). There were 77.1% patients showed improved clinical status in lower dose of RTX group (p = 0.000) and 76.8% in routine protocol group (p = 0.000). Although we found there was no significant difference in the proportion of AChR-MG patients with improved clinical status or adverse reactions between the two groups, adverse reactions might be lower in the lower dose RTX group. CONCLUSION Most of refractory MG patients with anti-AChR autoantibody were well responsive and tolerated to RTX treatment. Repeated application of lower dose of RTX was effective and might be more appropriate for refractory AChR-MG patients with potential lower side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Guo-Qian Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 300193, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Shu-An Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tianjin 300100, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Ming Yi
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Yuan Qi
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Hui Zhai
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Fu-Dong Shi
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China; Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA
| | - Chun-Sheng Yang
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China.
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Myasthenia Gravis: Pathogenic Effects of Autoantibodies on Neuromuscular Architecture. Cells 2019; 8:cells8070671. [PMID: 31269763 PMCID: PMC6678492 DOI: 10.3390/cells8070671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). Autoantibodies target key molecules at the NMJ, such as the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR), muscle-specific kinase (MuSK), and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4 (Lrp4), that lead by a range of different pathogenic mechanisms to altered tissue architecture and reduced densities or functionality of AChRs, reduced neuromuscular transmission, and therefore a severe fatigable skeletal muscle weakness. In this review, we give an overview of the history and clinical aspects of MG, with a focus on the structure and function of myasthenic autoantigens at the NMJ and how they are affected by the autoantibodies' pathogenic mechanisms. Furthermore, we give a short overview of the cells that are implicated in the production of the autoantibodies and briefly discuss diagnostic challenges and treatment strategies.
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8
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Roda RH, Doherty L, Corse AM. Stopping oral steroid-sparing agents at initiation of rituximab in myasthenia gravis. Neuromuscul Disord 2019; 29:554-561. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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9
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Whittam DH, Tallantyre EC, Jolles S, Huda S, Moots RJ, Kim HJ, Robertson NP, Cree BAC, Jacob A. Rituximab in neurological disease: principles, evidence and practice. Pract Neurol 2019; 19:5-20. [PMID: 30498056 DOI: 10.1136/practneurol-2018-001899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Rituximab is a widely used B-cell-depleting monoclonal antibody. It is unlicensed for use in neurological disorders and there are no treatment guidelines. However, as a rapidly acting, targeted therapy with growing evidence of efficacy and tolerability in several neuroinflammatory disorders, it is an attractive alternative to conventional immunomodulatory medications. This practical review aims to explain the basic principles of B-cell depletion with therapeutic monoclonal antibodies. We present the evidence for using rituximab in neurological diseases, and describe the practical aspects of prescribing, including dosing, monitoring, safety, treatment failure and its use in special circumstances such as coexisting viral hepatitis, pregnancy and lactation. We provide an administration guide, checklist and patient information leaflet, which can be adapted for local use. Finally, we review the safety data of rituximab and ocrelizumab (a newer and recently licensed B-cell-depleting therapy for multiple sclerosis) and suggest monitoring and risk reduction strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel H Whittam
- Department of Neurology, The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Emma C Tallantyre
- Helen Durham Centre for Neuroinflammation, University Hospital or Wales, Cardiff, UK
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Stephen Jolles
- Immunodeficiency Centre for Wales, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
- School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Saif Huda
- Department of Neurology, The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Robert J Moots
- Department of Musculoskeletal Diseases, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Diseases, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ho Jin Kim
- Department of Neurology, Research Institute and Hospital of National Cancer Center, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Neil P Robertson
- Helen Durham Centre for Neuroinflammation, University Hospital or Wales, Cardiff, UK
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Bruce A C Cree
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Anu Jacob
- Department of Neurology, The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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10
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High efficacy of rituximab for myasthenia gravis: a comprehensive nationwide study in Austria. J Neurol 2019; 266:699-706. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-019-09191-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Revised: 01/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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11
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Beecher G, Anderson D, Siddiqi ZA. Rituximab in refractory myasthenia gravis: Extended prospective study results. Muscle Nerve 2018; 58:452-455. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.26156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2018] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Grayson Beecher
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology; University of Alberta; 7-132 Clinical Sciences Building, 11350-83 Avenue, Edmonton Alberta T6G 2G3 Canada
| | - Dustin Anderson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology; University of Alberta; 7-132 Clinical Sciences Building, 11350-83 Avenue, Edmonton Alberta T6G 2G3 Canada
| | - Zaeem A. Siddiqi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology; University of Alberta; 7-132 Clinical Sciences Building, 11350-83 Avenue, Edmonton Alberta T6G 2G3 Canada
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12
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Stathopoulos P, Kumar A, Vander Heiden JA, Pascual-Goñi E, Nowak RJ, O’Connor KC. Mechanisms underlying B cell immune dysregulation and autoantibody production in MuSK myasthenia gravis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1412:154-165. [PMID: 29381221 PMCID: PMC5793885 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pathogenic autoantibodies to muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) can be found in patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) who do not have detectable antibodies to the acetylcholine receptor. Although the autoantibody-mediated pathology is well understood, much remains to be learned about the cellular immunology that contributes to autoantibody production. To that end, our laboratory has investigated particular components associated with the cellular immunopathology of MuSK MG. First, we found that B cell tolerance defects contribute to the abnormal development of the naive repertoire, which indicates that dysregulation occurs before the production of autoantibodies. Second, both the naive and antigen-experienced memory B cell repertoire, which we examined through the application of high-throughput adaptive immune receptor repertoire sequencing, include abnormalities not found in healthy controls. This highlights a broad immune dysregulation. Third, using complementary approaches, including production of human monoclonal antibodies, we determined that circulating plasmablasts directly contribute to the production of MuSK-specific autoantibodies in patients experiencing relapse following B cell depletion therapy. These collective findings contribute to defining a mechanistic model that describes MuSK MG immunopathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panos Stathopoulos
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Aditya Kumar
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Elba Pascual-Goñi
- Neurology Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Richard J. Nowak
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kevin C. O’Connor
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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13
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Evoli A, Alboini PE, Damato V, Iorio R, Provenzano C, Bartoccioni E, Marino M. Myasthenia gravis with antibodies to MuSK: an update. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2017; 1412:82-89. [PMID: 29266255 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis with antibodies to the muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK+ MG) is a rare disease with distinctive pathogenic mechanisms and clinical features. An acute onset and predominant bulbar muscle weakness are very common and highly suggestive of the disease. On the other hand, a more indolent course, atypical ocular presentation, and signs of cholinergic hyperactivity may complicate the diagnosis. Though MuSK+ MG is still a severe disease, over the years we have observed a steady reduction in the rate of respiratory crisis and a significant improvement in the clinical outcome, both likely related to earlier diagnosis and timely treatment. Despite the improved management, MuSK+ MG patients tend to remain dependent on long-term immunosuppressive treatment and may develop permanent disabling weakness. In uncontrolled studies, B cell depletion with rituximab proved effective in most patients with refractory disease, inducing prolonged clinical responses associated with a sustained reduction of serum antibody levels. Promising results from experimental studies and case reports suggest that both 3,4-diaminopyridine and albuterol may be effective as symptomatic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Evoli
- Institute of Neurology, Catholic University, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo E Alboini
- Institute of Neurology, Catholic University, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Damato
- Institute of Neurology, Catholic University, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Iorio
- Institute of Neurology, Catholic University, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Provenzano
- Institute of General Pathology, Catholic University, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Bartoccioni
- Institute of General Pathology, Catholic University, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariapaola Marino
- Institute of General Pathology, Catholic University, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, Rome, Italy
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Tandan R, Hehir MK, Waheed W, Howard DB. Rituximab treatment of myasthenia gravis: A systematic review. Muscle Nerve 2017; 56:185-196. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.25597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rup Tandan
- Department of Neurological Sciences; University of Vermont, Robert Larner College of Medicine and University of Vermont Medical Center; Room 426, Health Sciences Research Facility, 149 Beaumont Avenue Burlington Vermont 05405 USA
| | - Michael K. Hehir
- Department of Neurological Sciences; University of Vermont, Robert Larner College of Medicine and University of Vermont Medical Center; Room 426, Health Sciences Research Facility, 149 Beaumont Avenue Burlington Vermont 05405 USA
| | - Waqar Waheed
- Department of Neurological Sciences; University of Vermont, Robert Larner College of Medicine and University of Vermont Medical Center; Room 426, Health Sciences Research Facility, 149 Beaumont Avenue Burlington Vermont 05405 USA
| | - Diantha B. Howard
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science; University of Vermont, Robert Larner College of Medicine and University of Vermont Medical Center; Burlington Vermont USA
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Abstract
Neuromuscular diseases are syndromic disorders that affect nerve, muscle, and/or neuromuscular junction. Knowledge about the management of these diseases is required for anesthesiologists, because these may frequently be encountered in the intensive care unit, operating room, and other settings. The challenges and advances in management for some of the neuromuscular diseases most commonly encountered in the operating room and neurointensive care unit are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Crespo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Michael L Luke James
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Department of Neurology, Duke University, Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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Stieglbauer K, Pichler R, Topakian R. 10-year-outcomes after rituximab for myasthenia gravis: Efficacy, safety, costs of inhospital care, and impact on childbearing potential. J Neurol Sci 2017; 375:241-244. [PMID: 28320139 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Revised: 01/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rituximab (RTX) has emerged as an attractive off-label treatment option for patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) refractory to other immune therapies. However, data on long-term outcome after RTX for MG are still scarce. Here we present the 10-year outcomes [median (range) 10.1 (6.7-11.2) years] with respect to efficacy, safety, costs of inhospital care, and impact on childbearing potential in all four MG patients treated by one of the authors with RTX. In all patients, RTX led to sustained clinical improvement and eventual tapering of other immune therapies. RTX was well tolerated, and complications were not observed. After the start of RTX, annual costs for hospital admissions were markedly reduced compared to costs in the year preceding RTX. Under close clinical observation, two patients had uncomplicated pregnancies giving birth to a healthy child. With regard to its efficacy, excellent tolerance, lack of complications, low frequency of repeat infusions and pending patent expiry in many countries, RTX appears to compare favourably with other immune therapies used for MG. Multicentre trials and registries are urgently needed to further address long-term safety issues and clarify the efficacy and role of RTX in managing MG.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Pichler
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Neuromed Campus, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria.
| | - Raffi Topakian
- Department of Neurology, Academic Teaching Hospital Wels-Grieskirchen, Wels, Austria.
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17
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Therapeutic target of memory B cells depletion helps to tailor administration frequency of rituximab in myasthenia gravis. J Neuroimmunol 2016; 298:79-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2016.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2016] [Revised: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Guptill JT, Soni M, Meriggioli MN. Current Treatment, Emerging Translational Therapies, and New Therapeutic Targets for Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis. Neurotherapeutics 2016; 13:118-31. [PMID: 26510558 PMCID: PMC4720661 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-015-0398-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease associated with the production of autoantibodies against 1) the skeletal muscle acetylcholine receptor; 2) muscle-specific kinase, a receptor tyrosine kinase critical for the maintenance of neuromuscular synapses; 3) low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4, an important molecular binding partner for muscle-specific kinase; and 4) other muscle endplate proteins. In addition to the profile of autoantibodies, MG may be classified according the location of the affected muscles (ocular vs generalized), the age of symptom onset, and the nature of thymic pathology. Immunopathologic events leading to the production of autoantibodies differ in the various disease subtypes. Advances in our knowledge of the immunopathogenesis of the subtypes of MG will allow for directed utilization of the ever-growing repertoire of therapeutic agents that target distinct nodes in the immune pathway relevant to the initiation and maintenance of autoimmune disease. In this review, we examine the pathogenesis of MG subtypes, current treatment options, and emerging new treatments and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey T Guptill
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Madhu Soni
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Matthew N Meriggioli
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Myasthenia gravis: subgroup classification and therapeutic strategies. Lancet Neurol 2015; 14:1023-36. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(15)00145-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 563] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Revised: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Guptill JT, Yi JS, Sanders DB, Guidon AC, Juel VC, Massey JM, Howard JF, Scuderi F, Bartoccioni E, Evoli A, Weinhold KJ. Characterization of B cells in muscle-specific kinase antibody myasthenia gravis. NEUROLOGY-NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2015; 2:e77. [PMID: 25745635 PMCID: PMC4345633 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000000077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize B-cell subsets in patients with muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) myasthenia gravis (MG). METHODS In accordance with Human Immunology Project Consortium guidelines, we performed polychromatic flow cytometry and ELISA assays in peripheral blood samples from 18 patients with MuSK MG and 9 healthy controls. To complement a B-cell phenotype assay that evaluated maturational subsets, we measured B10 cell percentages, plasma B cell-activating factor (BAFF) levels, and MuSK antibody titers. Immunologic variables were compared with healthy controls and clinical outcome measures. RESULTS As expected, patients treated with rituximab had high percentages of transitional B cells and plasmablasts and thus were excluded from subsequent analysis. The remaining patients with MuSK MG and controls had similar percentages of total B cells and naïve, memory, isotype-switched, plasmablast, and transitional B-cell subsets. However, patients with MuSK MG had higher BAFF levels and lower percentages of B10 cells. In addition, we observed an increase in MuSK antibody levels with more severe disease. CONCLUSIONS We found prominent B-cell pathology in the distinct form of MG with MuSK autoantibodies. Increased BAFF levels have been described in other autoimmune diseases, including acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive MG. This finding suggests a role for BAFF in the survival of B cells in MuSK MG, which has important therapeutic implications. B10 cells, a recently described rare regulatory B-cell subset that potently blocks Th1 and Th17 responses, were reduced, which suggests a potential mechanism for the breakdown in immune tolerance in patients with MuSK MG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey T Guptill
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - John S Yi
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Donald B Sanders
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Amanda C Guidon
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Vern C Juel
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Janice M Massey
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - James F Howard
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Scuderi
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Bartoccioni
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Amelia Evoli
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Kent J Weinhold
- Neuromuscular Division (J.T.G., D.B.S., A.C.G., V.C.J., J.M.M.), Department of Neurology, and Division of Surgical Sciences (J.S.Y., K.J.W.), Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC; Neuromuscular Division (J.F.H.), Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and Institute of General Pathology (F.S., E.B.) and Department of Neurology (A.E.), Catholic University, Rome, Italy
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Yamada C, Teener JW, Davenport RD, Cooling L. Maintenance plasma exchange treatment for muscle specific kinase antibody positive myasthenia gravis patients. J Clin Apher 2014; 30:314-9. [DOI: 10.1002/jca.21377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chisa Yamada
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology; University of Michigan; Ann Arbor Michigan
| | - James W. Teener
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine; University of Michigan; Ann Arbor Michigan
| | - Robertson D. Davenport
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology; University of Michigan; Ann Arbor Michigan
| | - Laura Cooling
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology; University of Michigan; Ann Arbor Michigan
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Iorio R, Damato V, Alboini PE, Evoli A. Efficacy and safety of rituximab for myasthenia gravis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol 2014; 262:1115-9. [PMID: 25308632 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-014-7532-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Revised: 10/03/2014] [Accepted: 10/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder of the neuromuscular junction caused by circulating antibodies specific for the post-synaptic acetylcholine receptor or, in a minority of cases, for the muscle-specific tyrosine-kinase and the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4. A wide range of symptomatic and immunosuppressive treatments is currently available for MG patients with variable outcome. However, most immunosuppressive treatments are characterized by delayed onset of action and in some cases are not sufficient to induce stable remission of the disease. Rituximab (RTX) is a chimaeric monoclonal antibody specific for the CD20 B-cell surface antigen. Recent studies have provided evidence that RTX may be an effective treatment for patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) who are refractory to standardized immunosuppressive therapy. We performed a systematic review and a meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of RTX in myasthenia gravis considering the potential predictive factors related to patients' response to RTX in this disease.
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