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Kumawat V, Tripathi PP, M N, Mahadevan A, Vittal AV. Therapeutic role of plasma exchange in the management of stiff person syndrome: experience from a tertiary care centre. Hematol Transfus Cell Ther 2024; 46:443-449. [PMID: 38614933 DOI: 10.1016/j.htct.2023.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a rare and disabling neurological disorder characterized by muscle stiffness, painful spasms and rigidity involving the proximal and axial limb muscles, with an estimated incidence of 1 case per million per year. The first line of treatment for symptomatic management includes gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic agonists, benzodiazepines and baclofen. The therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), alone or as an adjuvant to other forms of immunomodulation, has been used as a therapeutic option, particularly in refractory cases. METHODS An observational study was performed to review SPS patient symptoms, comorbidities, electromyography (EMG) studies and treatment, identifying autoantibodies, therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) procedural details and clinical response. MAIN RESULTS Five patients (4 male and one female) were treated with TPE during the study period as adjuvant therapy. The average age was 47 years (range 34 - 61 years), and anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase 65-kilodalton isoform (anti-GAD65) antibodies were positive in 80 % (4/5) of the patient population. All patients received immunosuppressive drugs along with TPE. Four patients received TPE during the first admission and one received it during the third hospital admission. All patients showed good improvement immediately after TPE, but it was not a sustainable effect. CONCLUSION TPE may be helpful as adjuvant therapy for SPS patients to provide relief from clinical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Kumawat
- Transfusion Medicine and Haematology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, India.
| | - Parmatma Prasad Tripathi
- Transfusion Medicine and Haematology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, India
| | - Netravathi M
- Transfusion Medicine and Haematology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, India
| | - Anita Mahadevan
- Transfusion Medicine and Haematology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, India
| | - Anchan Vidyashree Vittal
- Transfusion Medicine and Haematology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, India
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Wei M, Bannout F, Dastjerdi M, Phan C, Batarseh S, Guo X, Baker N. Immunotherapy in a case of low titre GAD65 antibody-associated spectrum neurological disorders. BMJ Case Rep 2024; 17:e260503. [PMID: 38871638 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2024-260503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
We present a rare case of low titre GAD65 antibody-associated autoimmune encephalitis and status epilepticus in a young woman. She initially presented with left arm dystonic movements, contractures and status epilepticus. Due to the concern of autoimmune encephalitis and seizures, the patient received intravenous immunoglobulin empirically. After the detection of low serum GAD65 antibodies, the patient underwent immunomodulation therapy with significant improvement. This case demonstrated that in autoimmune encephalitis, it is important to monitor serum GAD65 antibodies levels and consider immunotherapy, despite mildly elevated serum levels. The patient's history of left arm dystonic movements without impaired awareness may have been due to limb dystonia, a presenting symptom of stiff person syndrome (SPS), despite SPS more commonly affecting axial muscles. This case further demonstrates that GAD65 antibody-related syndromes can manifest with different neurological phenotypes including co-occurrence of epilepsy with possible focal SPS despite low GAD65 antibodies titres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Wei
- Neurology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Firas Bannout
- Neurology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Mohammad Dastjerdi
- Neurology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Cattien Phan
- Neurology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Sanad Batarseh
- Neurology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Xiaofan Guo
- Neurology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Nancy Baker
- Neurology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA
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Mercure-Corriveau N, Roy S, Hu C, Crowe EP, Zhu X, Obando D, Patel EU, Tobian AAR, Wang Y, Bloch EM, Newsome SD. Therapeutic plasma exchange in the management of stiff person syndrome spectrum disorders: a case series and review of the literature. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2023; 16:17562864231180736. [PMID: 37529719 PMCID: PMC10387686 DOI: 10.1177/17562864231180736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Stiff person syndrome spectrum disorders (SPSD) are a rare group of disabling neuroimmunological disorders. SPSD often requires immune therapies, especially in the setting of inadequate response to symptomatic treatments. The safety and efficacy of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in SPSD remains uncertain. Objectives To describe the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of TPE in patients with SPSD. Design A retrospective observational study. Methods A retrospective review of SPSD patients seen at Johns Hopkins Hospital (JHH) from 1997 to 2021 was performed. Patient demographics/history, examination/diagnostic findings, treatment response, and TPE-related complications were recorded. Assessment for any associations between clinical characteristics, including age, sex, clinical phenotype, and time on immunotherapy, and response to TPE 3 months after treatment was performed. A subgroup of 18 patients treated with TPE at JHH and 6 patients treated with TPE at outside institutions were evaluated for any change in usage of symptomatic medications 3 months after the TPE treatment. Literature review of SPSD and TPE was also conducted. Results Thirty-nine SPSD patients were treated with TPE (21 at JHH and 18 at outside institutions); median age 48 years, 77% female, median modified Rankin Scale 3; mean initial anti-GAD65 antibody titer was 23,508 U/mL. Twenty-four patients (62%) had classic SPS, 10 (26%) had SPS-plus, 2 (5%) had progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus, and 3 (8%) had pure cerebellar ataxia. All patients were on symptomatic treatments, 30 (77%) previously received IVIg, and 3 (8%) previously received rituximab. Four patients (10%) had a TPE-related adverse event. One developed asymptomatic hypotension, another had both line thrombosis and infection, and two had non-life-threatening bleeding events. Twenty-three (59%) patients reported improvement in symptoms after TPE. Of the subgroup of 24 patients evaluated for any change in usage of symptomatic medications 3 months after the TPE treatment, 14 (58%) required fewer GABAergic symptomatic medications. Literature review identified 57 additional patients with SPSD; 43 (75%) reported temporary improvement after TPE. Conclusion The majority of patients treated with TPE had improvement. Moreover, most patients evaluated for any change in usage of symptomatic medications after the TPE treatment no longer required as much symptomatic medications months after TPE. TPE appears safe and well-tolerated in SPSD. Further studies are needed to assess the long-term efficacy of TPE in SPSD and identify which patients may benefit the most from TPE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Mercure-Corriveau
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shuvro Roy
- Division of Neuroimmunology and Neurological Infections, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chen Hu
- Division of Neuroimmunology and Neurological Infections, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elizabeth P. Crowe
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Xianming Zhu
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Danielle Obando
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Eshan U. Patel
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Aaron A. R. Tobian
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yujie Wang
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Evan M. Bloch
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Scott D. Newsome
- Division of Neuroimmunology and Neurological Infections, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, 600 North Wolfe Street, Pathology 627, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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4
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Lin CYR, Kuo SH. Ataxias: Hereditary, Acquired, and Reversible Etiologies. Semin Neurol 2023; 43:48-64. [PMID: 36828010 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1763511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
A variety of etiologies can cause cerebellar dysfunction, leading to ataxia symptoms. Therefore, the accurate diagnosis of the cause for cerebellar ataxia can be challenging. A step-wise investigation will reveal underlying causes, including nutritional, toxin, immune-mediated, genetic, and degenerative disorders. Recent advances in genetics have identified new genes for both autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive ataxias, and new therapies are on the horizon for targeting specific biological pathways. New diagnostic criteria for degenerative ataxias have been proposed, specifically for multiple system atrophy, which will have a broad impact on the future clinical research in ataxia. In this article, we aim to provide a review focus on symptoms, laboratory testing, neuroimaging, and genetic testing for the diagnosis of cerebellar ataxia causes, with a special emphasis on recent advances. Strategies for the management of cerebellar ataxia is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Ying R Lin
- Department of Neurology, Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Disease and Memory Disorders Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Sheng-Han Kuo
- Department of Neurology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York.,Initiative for Columbia Ataxia and Tremor, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
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Hsieh PC, Wu YR. Diagnosis and Clinical Features in Autoimmune-Mediated Movement Disorders. J Mov Disord 2022; 15:95-105. [PMID: 35670020 PMCID: PMC9171305 DOI: 10.14802/jmd.21077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Movement disorders are common manifestations in autoimmune-mediated encephalitis. This group of diseases is suspected to be triggered by infection or neoplasm. Certain phenotypes correlate with specific autoantibody-related neurological disorders, such as orofacial-lingual dyskinesia with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis and faciobrachial dystonic seizures with leucine-rich glioma-inactivated protein 1 encephalitis. Early diagnosis and treatment, especially for autoantibodies targeting neuronal surface antigens, can improve prognosis. In contrast, the presence of autoantibodies against intracellular neuronal agents warrants screening for underlying malignancy. However, early clinical diagnosis is challenging because these diseases can be misdiagnosed. In this article, we review the distinctive clinical phenotypes, magnetic resonance imaging findings, and current treatment options for autoimmune-mediated encephalitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Chen Hsieh
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yih-Ru Wu
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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Czempik PF, Gawryluk J, Wiórek A, Krzystanek E, Krzych ŁJ. Efficacy and safety of therapeutic plasma exchange in stiff person syndrome. Open Med (Wars) 2021; 16:526-531. [PMID: 33821220 PMCID: PMC8010154 DOI: 10.1515/med-2021-0220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The stiff person syndrome (SPS) is an extremely rare neurological disorder with primarily immune-mediated etiology. The cardinal symptoms are progressive, fluctuating axial/proximal limb muscle stiffness and spasms. The diagnosis is based on the clinical picture, electromyography examination and detection of antibodies to glutamic acid decarboxylase (anti-GAD). Adverse effects of medications might preclude its use or increase in dosing, therefore symptomatic and/or immunomodulatory medical therapy might be ineffective in acute exacerbation of the disease. We present a case of a 49-year-old female with exacerbation of SPS, in whom some standard pharmacotherapy could not be introduced (clonazepam, baclofen used in the past) and doses of existing standard medications could not be increased (diazepam, gabapentin, and levetiracetam) due to adverse effects. Moreover, a newly introduced medication (methylprednisolone) also led to a serious adverse effect (severe hyperglycemia). The patient underwent therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) with good effect and no complications. We review the literature regarding the efficacy and safety profile of TPE in exacerbation of SPS unresponsive to medical therapy. The procedure seems to have a good safety profile as an adjunct therapy for exacerbation of SPS not responding to standard medical therapy in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr F Czempik
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 14, Katowice, 40-752, Poland
| | - Justyna Gawryluk
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 14, Katowice, 40-752, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Wiórek
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 14, Katowice, 40-752, Poland
| | - Ewa Krzystanek
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 14, Katowice, 40-752, Poland
| | - Łukasz J Krzych
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Medyków 14, Katowice, 40-752, Poland
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Shoraka AR, Fang X, Hamouda D, Gogia B, Li X. Ataxia and ophthalmoplegia: an atypical case of Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS) with anti-GAD antibody. Int J Neurosci 2020; 132:994-998. [PMID: 33280463 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1859502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS) is frequently encountered variant of Gillian Barre Syndrome (GBS). It has distinct clinical and serological features. Here we describe an atypical GQ1b seronegative case with significantly elevated anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GAD-Ab). CASE DESCRIPTION A 24-year-old previously healthy Caucasian male presented with rapidly progressive ascending weakness, binocular diplopia and autonomic instability for 2 days. Examination was remarkable for asymmetrical facial weakness (L > R), opthalmoplegia and truncal ataxia without areflexia. MRI brain was normal. CSF analysis showed elevated protein. Electromyography/Nerve Conduction Study (EMG/NCS) within the first week was normal. Antiganglioside antibodies were negative. Extended serological and neoplastic workup revealed negative anti-GQ1b antibody, but significant increase of GAD-Ab, Voltage Gated Calcium Channel (VGCC) Ab, and mild elevation of TPO Ab IgG and Thyroglobulin (Tg) Ab IgG. Clinical diagnosis of partial MFS was made. He received a course of IVIg (2 g/kg over 5 days) and had complete recovery in 3 months. CONCLUSION There are incomplete or atypical forms of MFS. Recognition of its various clinical presentations is essential for early diagnosis and optimal management. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the role of anti-GAD-ab and other autoimmune antibodies in the pathogenesis of GQ1b-seronegative MFS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali R Shoraka
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Xiang Fang
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Diaa Hamouda
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Bhanu Gogia
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Xiangping Li
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
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9
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Li TR, Zhang YD, Wang Q, Shao XQ, Li ZM, Lv RJ. Intravenous methylprednisolone or immunoglobulin for anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 antibody autoimmune encephalitis: which is better? BMC Neurosci 2020; 21:13. [PMID: 32228575 PMCID: PMC7106675 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-020-00561-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients positive for anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) antibodies have attracted increasing attention. Their clinical manifestations are highly heterogeneous and can be comorbid with tumors. Currently, there is no consensus on the therapeutic regimen for anti-GAD65-associated neurological diseases due to the clinical complexity, rarity and sporadic distribution. We reported six anti-GAD65 autoimmune encephalitis (AE) patients who received intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) or immunoglobulin (IVIG) or both. Then, we evaluated the therapeutic effect of both by summarizing results in previous anti-GAD65 AE patients from 70 published references. RESULTS Our six patients all achieved clinical improvements in the short term. Unfortunately, there was no significant difference between IVMP and IVIG in terms of therapeutic response according to the previous references, and the effectiveness of IVMP and IVIG was 45.56% and 36.71%, respectively. We further divided the patients into different subgroups according to their prominent clinical manifestations. The response rates of IVMP and IVIG were 42.65% and 32.69%, respectively, in epilepsy patients; 60.00% and 77.78%, respectively, in patients with stiff-person syndrome; and 28.57% and 55.56%, respectively, in cerebellar ataxia patients. Among 29 anti-GAD65 AE patients with tumors, the response rates of IVMP and IVIG were 29.41% and 42.11%, respectively. There was no significant difference in effectiveness between the two regimens among the different subgroups. CONCLUSION Except for stiff-person syndrome, we found that this kind of AE generally has a poor response to IVMP or IVIG. Larger prospective studies enrolling large numbers of patients are required to identify the optimal therapeutic strategy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao-Ran Li
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, People's Republic of China.,Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University, 45 Chang Chun Road, Xicheng District, Beijing, 100053, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Di Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, People's Republic of China.,Department of Neurology, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Hebei Medical University, 215 Heping West Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qun Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Qiu Shao
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Mei Li
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui-Juan Lv
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, 119 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100070, People's Republic of China.
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Sriwastava S, Srinivas M, Kanna A, Yarraguntla K, Jowkar A, George E. Anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GAD) syndromes may have more aggressive disease course in African Americans and early onset of presentation compare to Caucasians group. eNeurologicalSci 2019; 17:100208. [PMID: 31646204 PMCID: PMC6804399 DOI: 10.1016/j.ensci.2019.100208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-Glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GAD) are increasingly diagnosed in the clinic and this antibody related syndromes can manifest commonly as autoimmune encephalitis, Stiff person syndrome and cerebellar ataxia. However, it is unclear if the race has role in age of incidence, presentation and severity of symptoms of anti-GAD associated conditions. In our cohort of 40 patients who were anti-GAD positive, we observed that the age at which the anti-GAD titers turned out to be positive was significantly lower in African Americans (AA) compared to Caucasians (Cau) irrespective of the type of conditions. However, the age at symptoms onset didn't differ significantly different between these groups. Furthermore, AA anti-GAD positive patients had seizures as their initial presentation that was significantly higher in incidence compared to Cau indicating that AA have more aggressive form of autoimmune phenomenon for reasons unknown. Future studies to explore the variations in autoimmune process and their phenotypes may aid in understanding anti-GAD syndromes differently between these racial groups.
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11
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Yilmaz FM, Little D, Gallagher M, Colcher A. Anti-glutamate Dehydrogenase Antibody Positive Cerebellar Ataxia and Stiff Person Syndrome Responding to Dual Treatment with Steroids and Intravenous Immunoglobulin: A Case Presentation and Literature Review. Cureus 2019; 11:e4851. [PMID: 31410334 PMCID: PMC6684109 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.4851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (anti-GAD) antibody syndrome (aGAS) has various presentations including cerebellar ataxia (CA) and stiff person syndrome (SPS). This is a treatable cause of CA and SPS. We present a case of a 49-year-old man who developed blurred vision, slurred speech, difficulty walking, unsteady gait, and clumsiness which had progressed over four months. The patient was found to have anti-GAD ab (+) CA and SPS and experienced significant symptomatic improvements after treatment with intravenous (IV) steroids followed by intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). The patient’s improvement persisted when he was reevaluated at follow up one month later. Since anti-GAD ab related diseases, including anti-GAD CA and SPS, are rarely diagnosed, there is limited data regarding the treatment of this condition. As there are only a few cases in the literature similar to this one, highlighting the successful treatment of anti-GAD ab cerebellar ataxia and SPS with dual therapy (steroids followed by IVIG) is important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furkan M Yilmaz
- Neurology, Cooper Neurological Institute, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, USA
| | - Dena Little
- Neurology, Cooper Neurological Institute, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, USA
| | - Micheal Gallagher
- Neurophysiology, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, USA
| | - Amy Colcher
- Neurology, Cooper Neurological Institute, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, USA
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Mitoma H, Manto M, Hampe CS. Immune-mediated Cerebellar Ataxias: Practical Guidelines and Therapeutic Challenges. Curr Neuropharmacol 2019; 17:33-58. [PMID: 30221603 PMCID: PMC6341499 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x16666180917105033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune-mediated cerebellar ataxias (IMCAs), a clinical entity reported for the first time in the 1980s, include gluten ataxia (GA), paraneoplastic cerebellar degenerations (PCDs), antiglutamate decarboxylase 65 (GAD) antibody-associated cerebellar ataxia, post-infectious cerebellitis, and opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome (OMS). These IMCAs share common features with regard to therapeutic approaches. When certain factors trigger immune processes, elimination of the antigen( s) becomes a priority: e.g., gluten-free diet in GA and surgical excision of the primary tumor in PCDs. Furthermore, various immunotherapeutic modalities (e.g., steroids, immunoglobulins, plasmapheresis, immunosuppressants, rituximab) should be considered alone or in combination to prevent the progression of the IMCAs. There is no evidence of significant differences in terms of response and prognosis among the various types of immunotherapies. Treatment introduced at an early stage, when CAs or cerebellar atrophy is mild, is associated with better prognosis. Preservation of the "cerebellar reserve" is necessary for the improvement of CAs and resilience of the cerebellar networks. In this regard, we emphasize the therapeutic principle of "Time is Cerebellum" in IMCAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Mitoma
- Address correspondence to this author at the Medical Education Promotion Center, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan;, E-mail:
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13
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Ikeda S, Yakushiji Y, Eriguchi M, Fujii Y, Ishitsuka K, Hara H. [Neurosyphilis with cerebellar ataxia, personality change and cognitive decline one year after onset of cerebral infarction]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2018; 58:499-504. [PMID: 30068812 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.cn-001170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
A 51-year-old man with a cerebral lacunar infarction of the midbrain that had occurred two years before, was transferred from a regional psychiatric hospital with chronic progressive psychiatric symptoms including cognitive decline, irritability and hallucinations. Neurological examinations upon admission revealed cerebellar ataxia including dysarthria, ataxic gait and bilateral intention tremor. Brain FLAIR MRI on day 2 revealed abnormal hyperintense lesions in the bilateral insular cortex and temporal pole. Treponemal and non-treponemal specific antibodies were positive in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), indicating a diagnosis of neurosyphilis. Treatment with intravenous penicillin (24 × 106 units/day × 28 days) improved his psychiatric symptoms, ataxia, imaging abnormalities and inflammatory CSF findings. Cerebellar ataxia is a rare symptom of neurosyphilis. Nonetheless, the possibility of neurosyphilis should be considered if a young adult ataxia accompanied by psychiatric symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhei Ikeda
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine
| | | | | | - Yuka Fujii
- Department of Psychiatry, Saga University Faculty of Medicine
| | - Koji Ishitsuka
- Department of Cerebrovascular Medicine, Saga Medical Centre Koseikan
| | - Hideo Hara
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine
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Manto M, Hampe CS. Endocrine disorders and the cerebellum: from neurodevelopmental injury to late-onset ataxia. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2018; 155:353-368. [PMID: 29891071 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64189-2.00023-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Hormonal disorders are a source of cerebellar ataxia in both children and adults. Normal development of the cerebellum is critically dependent on thyroid hormone, which crosses both the blood-brain barrier and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier thanks to specific transporters, including monocarboxylate transporter 8 and the organic anion-transporting polypeptide 1C1. In particular, growth and dendritic arborization of Purkinje neurons, synaptogenesis, and myelination are dependent on thyroid hormone. Disturbances of thyroid hormone may also impact on cerebellar ataxias of other origin, decompensating or aggravating the pre-existing ataxia manifesting with motor ataxia, oculomotor ataxia, and/or Schmahmann syndrome. Parathyroid disorders are associated with a genuine cerebellar syndrome, but symptoms may be subtle. The main conditions combining diabetes and cerebellar ataxia are Friedreich ataxia, ataxia associated with anti-GAD antibodies, autoimmune polyglandular syndromes, aceruloplasminemia, and cerebellar ataxia associated with hypogonadism (especially Holmes ataxia/Boucher-Neuhäuser syndrome). The general workup of cerebellar disorders should include the evaluation of hormonal status, including thyroid-stimulating hormone and free thyroxine levels, and hormonal replacement should be considered depending on the laboratory results. Cerebellar deficits may be reversible in some cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Manto
- Neurology Service, CHU-Charleroi, Charleroi, Belgium; Neuroscience Service, Université de Mons, Mons, Belgium.
| | - Christiane S Hampe
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, United States
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Baizabal-Carvallo JF, Alonso-Juarez M. Cerebellar disease associated with anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies: review. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2017; 124:1171-1182. [PMID: 28689294 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-017-1754-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Several neurological syndromes have been recognized associated to GAD antibodies. Among those disorders, cerebellar ataxia (CA) is one of the most common, along with stiff-person syndrome. Patients with GAD associated CA present with a progressive pancerebellar syndrome, with a subacute or chronic evolution, along with other neurological manifestations such as stiffness, oculomotor dysfunction, epilepsy, and cognitive dysfunction. These symptoms may be preceded by the so-called "brainstem attacks", where manifestations consistent with transient dysfunction of the brainstem may be observed. These patients frequently have extra-neurologic autoimmune manifestations such as diabetes mellitus type 1, polyendocrine autoimmune syndrome, pernicious anemia, vitiligo, etc. A proportion of patients may present with an underlying neoplasia, but the course is less aggressive than in those patients with classical paraneoplastic CA with onconeural antibodies. The diagnosis is based on the present of high serum and CSF titers of GAD antibodies, with intrathecal production of such antibodies. Treatment is aimed to decrease the immunological response with intravenous immunoglobulin, steroids, rituximab and oral immunosuppressive drugs. A subacute presentation and rapid initiation of immunotherapy seem to be the predictors of a favorable clinical response.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Fidel Baizabal-Carvallo
- Department of Neurology, Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Guanajuato, 20 de Enero no. 927, C.P. 37320, León, Guanajuato, Mexico.
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Tohid H. Anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody positive neurological syndromes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 21:215-22. [PMID: 27356651 PMCID: PMC5107286 DOI: 10.17712/nsj.2016.3.20150596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
A rare kind of antibody, known as anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) autoantibody, is found in some patients. The antibody works against the GAD enzyme, which is essential in the formation of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter found in the brain. Patients found with this antibody present with motor and cognitive problems due to low levels or lack of GABA, because in the absence or low levels of GABA patients exhibit motor and cognitive symptoms. The anti-GAD antibody is found in some neurological syndromes, including stiff-person syndrome, paraneoplastic stiff-person syndrome, Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS), limbic encephalopathy, cerebellar ataxia, eye movement disorders, and epilepsy. Previously, excluding MFS, these conditions were calledhyperexcitability disorders. However, collectively, these syndromes should be known as "anti-GAD positive neurological syndromes." An important limitation of this study is that the literature is lacking on the subject, and why patients with the above mentioned neurological problems present with different symptoms has not been studied in detail. Therefore, it is recommended that more research is conducted on this subject to obtain a better and deeper understanding of these anti-GAD antibody induced neurological syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassaan Tohid
- Valley View Court, Fairfield, California, United States of America. E-mail:
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Marcián V, Filip P, Bareš M, Brázdil M. Cerebellar Dysfunction and Ataxia in Patients with Epilepsy: Coincidence, Consequence, or Cause? TREMOR AND OTHER HYPERKINETIC MOVEMENTS (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2016; 6:376. [PMID: 27375960 PMCID: PMC4925921 DOI: 10.7916/d8kh0nbt] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Basic epilepsy teachings assert that seizures arise from the cerebral cortex, glossing over infratentorial structures such as the cerebellum that are believed to modulate rather than generate seizures. Nonetheless, ataxia and other clinical findings in epileptic patients are slowly but inevitably drawing attention to this neural node. Tracing the evolution of this line of inquiry from the observed coincidence of cerebellar atrophy and cerebellar dysfunction (most apparently manifested as ataxia) in epilepsy to their close association, this review considers converging clinical, physiological, histological, and neuroimaging evidence that support incorporating the cerebellum into epilepsy pathology. We examine reports of still controversial cerebellar epilepsy, studies of cerebellar stimulation alleviating paroxysmal epileptic activity, studies and case reports of cerebellar lesions directly associated with seizures, and conditions in which ataxia is accompanied by epileptic seizures. Finally, the review substantiates the role of this complex brain structure in epilepsy whether by coincidence, as a consequence of deleterious cortical epileptic activity or antiepileptic drugs, or the very cause of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Václav Marcián
- First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.,First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Behavioral and Social Neuroscience Research Group, CEITEC (Central European Institute of Technology), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Pavel Filip
- First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Bareš
- First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Behavioral and Social Neuroscience Research Group, CEITEC (Central European Institute of Technology), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Milan Brázdil
- First Department of Neurology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic; Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Behavioral and Social Neuroscience Research Group, CEITEC (Central European Institute of Technology), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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Wang JG, Cai Q, Zheng J, Dong YS, Li JJ, Li JC, Hao GZ, Wang C, Wang JL. Epigenetic Suppression of GADs Expression is Involved in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy and Pilocarpine-Induced Mice Epilepsy. Neurochem Res 2016; 41:1751-60. [PMID: 27220336 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-016-1891-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 02/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that histone acetylation is involved with the regulation of enzyme glutamate decarboxylases (GADs), including GAD67 and GAD65. Here, we investigated the histone acetylation modifications of GADs in the pathogenesis of epilepsy and explored the therapeutic effect of a novel second-generation histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) JNJ-26481585 in epilepsy animals. We revealed the suppression of GADs protein and mRNA level, and histone hypoacetylation in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and pilocarpine-induced epilepsy mice model. Double-immunofluorescence also indicated that the hypoacetyl-H3 was located in hippocampal GAD67/GAD65 positive neurons in epilepsy mice. JNJ-26481585 significantly reversed the decrease of the GAD67/GAD65 both protein and mRNA levels, and the histone hypoacetylation of GABAergic neurons in epilepsy mice. Meanwhile, single-cell real-time PCR performed in GFP-GAD67/GAD65 transgenic mice demonstrated that JNJ-26481585 induced increase of GAD67/GAD65 mRNA level in GABAergic neurons. Furthermore, JNJ-26481585 significantly alleviated the epileptic seizures in mice model. Together, our findings demonstrate inhibition of GADs gene via histone acetylation plays an important role in the pathgenesis of epilepsy, and suggest JNJ-26481585 as a promising therapeutic strategy for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Gang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The 463rd Hospital of PLA, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110042, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Cai
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute for Functional Brain Disorders, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The 463rd Hospital of PLA, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110042, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Shu Dong
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Command Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin-Jiang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Command Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing-Chen Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Command Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Guang-Zhi Hao
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Shenyang Military Command Area, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110016, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute for Functional Brain Disorders, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ju-Lei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery and Institute for Functional Brain Disorders, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, People's Republic of China.
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Sarva H, Deik A, Ullah A, Severt WL. Clinical Spectrum of Stiff Person Syndrome: A Review of Recent Reports. TREMOR AND OTHER HYPERKINETIC MOVEMENTS (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2016; 6:340. [PMID: 26989571 PMCID: PMC4790195 DOI: 10.7916/d85m65gd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background “Classic” stiff person syndrome (SPS) features stiffness, anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (anti-GAD) antibodies, and other findings. Anti-GAD antibodies are also detected in some neurological syndromes (such as ataxia) in which stiffness is inconsistently present. Patients with otherwise “classic” SPS may either lack anti-GAD antibodies or be seropositive for others. Hence, SPS cases appear to fall within a clinical spectrum that includes conditions such as progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus (PERM), which exhibits brainstem and autonomic features. We have compiled herein SPS-spectrum cases reported since 2010, and have segregated them on the basis of likely disease mechanism (autoimmune, paraneoplastic, or cryptogenic) for analysis. Methods The phrases “stiff person syndrome”, “PERM”, “anti-GAD antibody syndrome”, and “glycine receptor antibody neurological disorders” were searched for in PubMed in January 2015. The results were narrowed to 72 citations after excluding non-English and duplicate reports. Clinical descriptions, laboratory data, management, and outcomes were categorized, tabulated, and analyzed. Results Sixty-nine autoimmune, 19 paraneoplastic, and 13 cryptogenic SPS-spectrum cases were identified. SPS was the predominant diagnosis among the groups. Roughly two-thirds of autoimmune and paraneoplastic cases were female. Anti-GAD antibodies were most frequently identified, followed by anti-amphiphysin among paraneoplastic cases and by anti-glycine receptor antibodies among autoimmune cases. Benzodiazepines were the most commonly used medications. Prognosis seemed best for cryptogenic cases; malignancy worsened that of paraneoplastic cases. Discussion Grouping SPS-spectrum cases by pathophysiology provided insights into work-up, treatment, and prognosis. Ample phenotypic and serologic variations are present within the categories. Ruling out malignancy and autoimmunity is appropriate for suspected SPS-spectrum cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harini Sarva
- Department of Neurology, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Andres Deik
- Parkinson Disease and Movement Disorders Center, Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA
| | - Aman Ullah
- Department of Neurology, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - William L Severt
- Department of Neurology, Division of Movement Disorders, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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Nanri K, Okuma M, Sato S, Yoneda M, Taguchi T, Mitoma H, Yamada J, Unezaki S, Nagatani T, Otsubo S, Sugawara M, Tanaka N, Mizusawa H. Prevalence of Autoantibodies and the Efficacy of Immunotherapy for Autoimmune Cerebellar Ataxia. Intern Med 2016; 55:449-54. [PMID: 26935362 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.55.5156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autoimmune cerebellar ataxias were recently reported to be treatable. However, the proportion of patients with cortical cerebellar atrophy of unknown etiology with autoimmune-associated cerebellar ataxia and the actual effectiveness of immunotherapy in these diseases remain unknown. METHODS We measured the level of autoantibodies (including anti-gliadin antibody, anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibody, and anti-thyroid antibody) in 58 Japanese patients with cerebellar ataxia, excluding those with multiple system atrophy, hereditary spinocerebellar ataxia, cancer, or those who were receiving phenytoin, and the efficacy of immunotherapy was assessed. RESULTS Thirty-one of 58 (53%) patients were positive for anti-GAD antibody, anti-gliadin antibody, or anti-thyroid antibody. Seven of the 12 anti-gliadin antibody-positive patients, three of the four anti-GAD antibody-positive patients, and three of the six anti-thyroid antibody-positive patients responded well to immunotherapy, indicating that 59% of patients with ataxia-associated antibody-positive cerebellar ataxia undergoing immunotherapy responded well. CONCLUSION Some patients with cerebellar ataxia have autoimmune conditions and diagnosing autoimmune cerebellar ataxia is therefore an important component in the care of patients with this disease entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazunori Nanri
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, Japan
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Mitoma H, Hadjivassiliou M, Honnorat J. Guidelines for treatment of immune-mediated cerebellar ataxias. CEREBELLUM & ATAXIAS 2015; 2:14. [PMID: 26561527 PMCID: PMC4641375 DOI: 10.1186/s40673-015-0034-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Immune-mediated cerebellar ataxias include gluten ataxia, paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration, GAD antibody associated cerebellar ataxia, and Hashimoto’s encephalopathy. Despite the identification of an increasing number of immune-mediated cerebellar ataxias, there is no proposed standardized therapy. We evaluated the efficacies of immunotherapies in reported cases using a common scale of daily activity. The analysis highlighted the importance of removal of autoimmune triggering factors (e.g., gluten or cancer) and the need for immunotherapy evaluation (e.g., corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, immunosuppressants) and adaptation according to each subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Mitoma
- Department of Medical Education, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Jérôme Honnorat
- University Lyon 1, University Lyon, Rue Guillaume Paradin, 69372 Lyon, Cedex 08 France ; INSERM, UMR-S1028, CNRS, UMR-5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Neuro-Oncology and Neuro-Inflammation Team, 7, Rue Guillaume Paradin, 69372 Lyon, Cedex 08 France ; National Reference Centre for Paraneoplastic Neurological Diseases, Hospices civils de Lyon, Hôpital neurologique, 69677 Bron, France ; Hospices Civils de Lyon, Neuro-oncology, Hôpital Neurologique, 69677 Bron, France
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Glover RL, DeNiro LV, Lasala PA, Weidenheim KM, Graber JJ, Boro A. ILAE type 3 hippocampal sclerosis in patients with anti-GAD-related epilepsy. NEUROLOGY-NEUROIMMUNOLOGY & NEUROINFLAMMATION 2015; 2:e122. [PMID: 26161431 PMCID: PMC4484895 DOI: 10.1212/nxi.0000000000000122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To describe the neuropathologic findings and clinical course of 2 patients who underwent temporal lobectomy for medically refractive epilepsy and were later found to have high anti–glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) concentrations. Methods: Small case series. Results: Neuropathologic examination of both patients revealed International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) type 3 hippocampal sclerosis. Following surgery, both developed signs and symptoms of stiff person syndrome and later cerebellar ataxia. Laboratory studies demonstrated high concentrations of anti-GAD antibodies in both patients. Conclusions: These cases suggest that ILAE type 3 hippocampal sclerosis may be immunologically related to and may exist as part of a broader anti-GAD–related neurologic syndrome in some instances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Glover
- Department of Neurology (R.L.G., L.V.D., K.M.W., J.J.G., A.B.), Department of Neurological Surgery (P.A.L., K.M.W.), and Department of Pathology (K.M.W.), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Lauren V DeNiro
- Department of Neurology (R.L.G., L.V.D., K.M.W., J.J.G., A.B.), Department of Neurological Surgery (P.A.L., K.M.W.), and Department of Pathology (K.M.W.), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Patrick A Lasala
- Department of Neurology (R.L.G., L.V.D., K.M.W., J.J.G., A.B.), Department of Neurological Surgery (P.A.L., K.M.W.), and Department of Pathology (K.M.W.), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Karen M Weidenheim
- Department of Neurology (R.L.G., L.V.D., K.M.W., J.J.G., A.B.), Department of Neurological Surgery (P.A.L., K.M.W.), and Department of Pathology (K.M.W.), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Jerome J Graber
- Department of Neurology (R.L.G., L.V.D., K.M.W., J.J.G., A.B.), Department of Neurological Surgery (P.A.L., K.M.W.), and Department of Pathology (K.M.W.), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Alexis Boro
- Department of Neurology (R.L.G., L.V.D., K.M.W., J.J.G., A.B.), Department of Neurological Surgery (P.A.L., K.M.W.), and Department of Pathology (K.M.W.), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY
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23
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Dogan VB. An anti-GAD autoantibody-associated cerebellar syndrome case: a curable cause of ataxia. Neurol Sci 2015; 36:1929-31. [PMID: 26058956 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-015-2280-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vasfiye Burcu Dogan
- Bakırkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey. .,Bakırkoy Mental Health and Research Hospital, Zuhuratbaba mah., Bakırkoy, 34170, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Abstract
PURPOSE Temporal lobe epilepsy with antibodies (abs) against the glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 isoform (GAD-TLE) is known as an immune-mediated neurological syndrome. Here we evaluate the therapy response to various immunotherapies and epilepsy surgery in this syndrome. METHOD All patients with GAD-TLE and follow-up data and stored serum and CSF samples, identified and treated at the Bonn centre from 2002 to 2010, were studied retrospectively. Seizure freedom for ≥1 year and reduction of ≥50%, i.e. therapy response, were assessed. GAD-ab titres and neuropsychological performances were documented prior and after individual interventions. RESULTS Thirteen patients with GAD-TLE were identified with the following seizure responses: corticosteroids (5 responders out of 11 treated patients); i.v. immunoglobulins (1/5), apheresis therapy (1/8); and natalizumab (1/1), selective amygdala-hippocampectomy (2/3). None of the patients achieved sustained seizure freedom apart from one patient. This patient was on antiepileptic drug treatment after discontinuation of immunotherapy. CONCLUSION The seizure response to immunotherapies in patients with GAD-TLE was poor. Corticosteroids were the most effective regarding seizure response. Especially the poor effects of apheresis therapies support the idea that GAD-abs are not directly pathogenic. None of three patients was seizure-free after temporal lobe surgery suggesting that GAD-TLE patients respond worse than others to this type of intervention. Our results reflect the chronic course of the disease with low likelihood for patients with GAD-TLE to attain long-term seizure freedom.
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Abstract
The role of immunity and inflammation appears to be an integral part of the pathogenic processes associated with some seizures, particularly with refractory epilepsy. Prompt treatment with immunotherapy may lead to better outcomes. Immune treatment options for treatment of epilepsy include therapies such as corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, plasmapheresis, or steroid-sparing drugs such as azathioprine. Recent alternatives have included even more aggressive treatment with cyclophosphamide, anti-pre-B-lymphocyte monoclonal antibody rituximab, and monoclonal antibodies such as efalizumab or natalizumab, which are presently used for other inflammatory disorders. Randomized controlled trials of immunotherapy in presumed autoimmune epilepsy are needed to provide further support for the rapid use of immunotherapy in patients with immune mediated epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Melvin
- Section of Neurology, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Department of Pediatrics, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA..
| | - H Huntley Hardison
- Section of Neurology, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, Department of Pediatrics, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
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