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Patel G, Sakiri A, Brown A, Pasha A, Bansal V. Case report: A novel case of paraneoplastic voltage gated calcium channel antibodies secondary to appendiceal adenocarcinoma. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1355437. [PMID: 38601338 PMCID: PMC11005677 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1355437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Voltage gated calcium channels (VGCCs) play a critical role in neural transmission. Antibodies that target these ion channels can disrupt cellular signal transmission resulting in various clinical presentations. VGCC antibodies are most commonly associated with paraneoplastic syndromes such as Lambert-Eatons myasthenic syndrome. Here, we report a 47-year-old female with Stage IV appendiceal adenocarcinoma status post appendectomy and right hemicolectomy, who presented with progressive memory impairment, aphasia, ataxia, weakness, and headache. Neurologic exam was notable for right-sided parietal drift, decreased right arm swing, and ataxia of the bilateral upper extremities, more prominent on the right side. MRI of the brain with and without contrast was unremarkable. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was notable for an elevated myelin basic protein (4.9 ng/mL, normal reference 0.0-3.7 ng/mL) with normal cell count, flow cytometry, and cytology. An extensive serum autoimmune neurology antibody evaluation revealed elevated VGCC autoantibodies (observed value: 96.1 pmol/L, normal range 0.0-30.0 pmol/L). A diagnosis of paraneoplastic voltage gated calcium channel antibodies secondary to appendiceal adenocarcinoma was made. The patient was treated with five exchanges with plasmapheresis over 10 days with significant clinical improvement in her symptoms. Upon literature review, this would be the first reported case of VGCC antibodies associated with appendiceal adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghanshyam Patel
- Mercyhealth, Internal Medicine Residency, Rockford, IL, United States
| | - Ahmet Sakiri
- Mercyhealth, Internal Medicine Residency, Rockford, IL, United States
| | - Abby Brown
- Department of Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Rockford, IL, United States
| | - Arfa Pasha
- Department of Medicine, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Kingdom
| | - Vibhav Bansal
- Department of Neurology, Mercyhealth Javon Bea Hospital Rockford, Rockford, IL, United States
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2
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Lipka AF, Verschuuren JJGM. Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2024; 200:307-325. [PMID: 38494285 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-823912-4.00012-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by proximal muscle weakness, loss of tendon reflexes, and autonomic dysfunction. Muscle weakness usually starts in the upper legs and can progress to oculobulbar and in severe cases respiratory muscles. P/Q-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) localized in the presynaptic motor nerve terminal and in the autonomic nervous system are targeted by antibodies in LEMS patients. These antibodies can be detected in about 90% of patients, and the presence of decrement and increment upon repetitive nerve stimulation is also a highly sensitive diagnostic test. Rapid diagnosis is important because of the association with SCLC in 50%-60% of patients, which stresses the need for vigorous tumor screening after diagnosis. Clinical parameters can predict tumor probability and guide frequency of tumor screening. Treatment of the tumor as well as symptomatic treatment and immunosuppression can effectively control symptoms in the majority of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander F Lipka
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Groene Hart Hospital, Gouda, The Netherlands.
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3
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Kerstens J, Titulaer MJ. Overview of treatment strategies in paraneoplastic neurological syndromes. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2024; 200:97-112. [PMID: 38494299 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-823912-4.00015-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Treatment strategies in paraneoplastic neurological syndromes rely on the three pillars of tumor treatment, immunotherapy, and symptomatic treatment, the first one being by far the most important in the majority of patients and syndromes. Classically, antibodies against extracellular antigens are directly pathogenic, and patients with these syndromes are more responsive to immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive treatments than the ones with antibodies against intracellular targets. This chapter first discusses some general principles of tumor treatment and immunotherapy, followed by a closer look at specific treatment options for different clinical syndromes, focusing on symptomatic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen Kerstens
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten J Titulaer
- Department of Neurology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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4
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Morar R, Seedat F, Richards GA. Clinical features and outcomes of patients with myasthenia gravis admitted to an intensive care unit: A 20-year retrospective study. SOUTHERN AFRICAN JOURNAL OF CRITICAL CARE 2023; 39:10.7196/SAJCC.2023.v39i2.561. [PMID: 37547769 PMCID: PMC10399547 DOI: 10.7196/sajcc.2023.v39i2.561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There are limited data on the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH). Objectives The aim was to study the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with MG admitted to the CMJAH over two decades. Methods A retrospective study was undertaken of patients with MG admitted to the multidisciplinary ICU of CMJAH over a 20-year period, from 1998 to 2017. Demographic data, clinical features, management and outcomes of patients were assessed and reviewed from the case records. Results Thirty-four patients with MG were admitted to the ICU during this period: 24 female and 10 male. The mean age ± SD was 37.4 ± 13.0 years, with a range of 16 - 66 years. Four patients were human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive. The mean length of stay (LOS) in ICU was 10.6 ± 20.1 days, ranging from 1 to 115 days. Two patients were diagnosed with MG in the ICU after failure to wean from the ventilator. Overall, 22 patients were intubated and ventilated on admission. Morbidities included self-extubation, aspiration pneumonia and iatrogenic pneumothorax. History of thymectomy was present in 12 patients. The treatments received for MG included pyridostigmine (73.5%), corticosteroids (55.9%), azathioprine (35.3%), plasmapheresis (26.5%) and intravenous immunoglobulin (8.8%). The overall mortality in the ICU was 5.9%. Conclusion MG is a serious disorder with considerable morbidity and mortality. It is, however, a potentially manageable disease, provided that appropriate ICU resources are available. Contributions of the study This study provides further insight into the characteristics and outcomes of myasthenia gravis patients in ICU, within a South African context.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Morar
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences; Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Charlotte
Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - GEMP 2 Group 6 of 2018 (M Amod, F Chappel, L Ebbeling, L Fikizolo, A Glover, K Gutu,
C Lawson, R Maswinyaneng, M Mohunlal, K Morar, D Rooken-Smith, K Seale, D Shai)
- GEMP 2 Group 6 of 2018, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - F Seedat
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences; Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Charlotte
Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - G A Richards
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences; Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Charlotte
Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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5
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Harsini S, Rezaei N. Autoimmune diseases. Clin Immunol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-818006-8.00001-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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6
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Chen TX, Fan YT, Peng BW. Distinct mechanisms underlying therapeutic potentials of CD20 in neurological and neuromuscular disease. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 238:108180. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Ramdas S, Della Marina A, Ryan MM, McWilliam K, Klein A, Jacquier D, Alabaf S, Childs AM, Parasuraman D, Beeson D, Palace J, Jungbluth H. Rituximab in juvenile myasthenia gravis-an international cohort study and literature review. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2022; 40:5-10. [PMID: 35835035 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2022.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Juvenile myasthenia gravis (JMG) is a rare, antibody-mediated disorder of the neuromuscular junction. Treatment strategies in JMG are largely informed by adult MG treatments as the pathophysiology is similar. Rituximab is increasingly considered as a treatment option in refractory JMG but has not yet been systematically investigated in this patient group We conducted a retrospective study from five international centres with expertise in paediatric myasthenia. 10 JMG patients treated with rituximab were identified. Following rituximab treatment all patients had a reduction in JMG-related hospital admissions. At 24 month follow up, 6 patients (60%) had achieved complete stable remission or pharmacological remission and 7 patients were able to reduce immunomodulatory treatment(s). The main side-effect was infusion-related reactions (30%) which resolved in all patients with symptomatic treatment. We compared our cohort to previously reported JMG cases treated with rituximab and noted similar response rates but a slightly higher side-effect profile. Rituximab is a safe and effective treatment option in moderate to severe JMG and most patients have an improvement in MG symptoms post treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sithara Ramdas
- MDUK Neuromuscular Centre, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Department of Paediatric Neurology, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Adela Della Marina
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Developmental Neurology and Social Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany.
| | - Monique M Ryan
- Neurology Department, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Kenneth McWilliam
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| | - Andrea Klein
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; University Children's Hospital Bern, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - David Jacquier
- Paediatric Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Setareh Alabaf
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Anne-Marie Childs
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, United Kingdom.
| | - Deepak Parasuraman
- Department of Paediatrics, Heartlands Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
| | - David Beeson
- Neurosciences Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Jacqueline Palace
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Heinz Jungbluth
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Neuromuscular Service, Evelina's Children Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Muscle Signalling Section, FoLSM, King's College, London, UK.
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8
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Molimard A, Gitiaux C, Barnerias C, Audic F, Isapof A, Walther-Louvier U, Cances C, Espil-Taris C, Davion JB, Quijano-Roy S, Grisel C, Chabrol B, Desguerre I. Rituximab Therapy in the Treatment of Juvenile Myasthenia Gravis: The French Experience. Neurology 2022; 98:e2368-e2376. [PMID: 35314497 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000200288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Corticosteroids are the first-line immunosuppressants in the management of juvenile myasthenia gravis despite their adverse effects. The place of new immunosuppressive therapies is not clearly defined by the last international consensus held in March 2019, due to the lack of clinical trials. The aim of this study is to describe the use of rituximab, its efficacy and safety in 8 main pediatric centers of the French neuromuscular reference network in order to propose a new place in the therapeutic strategy of juvenile myasthenia gravis. METHOD We conducted a retrospective multicenter study from January 1, 2009 to April 30, 2020, including a large cohort of children with myasthenia gravis in 8 main French pediatric reference centers of the Filnemus network. The type of myasthenia, the different lines of immunosuppressive treatment and the clinical course of the patients were collected. To evaluate the efficacy of rituximab, we studied the clinical course of patients on immunosuppressive therapy. Outcome was defined as the clinical and therapeutic status of patients at the last visit: stable without immunosuppressants, stable with immunosuppressants or unstable. RESULTS We included 74 patients: 18 children with ocular form and 56 children with generalized form. Of the 37 patients who required immunosuppressive therapy, 27 were treated with rituximab. Patients treated with rituximab had a better outcome than patients treated with conventional immunosuppressants (p = 0.006). The use of rituximab as a first-line immunosuppressant showed a better efficacy with a discontinuation of immunosuppressants in 75% of patients (vs. 25%, p=0.04) and resulted cortisone sparing (42% vs. 92%, p=0.03) compared with rituximab treatment as a second or third-line immunosuppression. Rituximab was well tolerated; no adverse effect was observed. CONCLUSION The use of rituximab has increased in France over the last 10 years as first line immunosuppressant. This study suggests a good tolerability and efficacy of rituximab in juvenile myasthenia gravis. Early use appears to improve outcomes and facilitate cortisone-sparing in antibody-positive generalized juvenile myasthenia. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE This study provides Class III evidence that for children with MG rituximab is effective and well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cyril Gitiaux
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Ile de France/Est, Service de Neurologie pédiatrique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Christine Barnerias
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Ile de France/Est, Service de Neurologie pédiatrique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Frédérique Audic
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires de l'enfant PACARARE, Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpital Timone Enfants, 264 rue Saint Pierre, 13385, Marseille Cedex 5
| | - Arnaud Isapof
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Ile de France/Est, Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpital Trousseau, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Ulrike Walther-Louvier
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires AOC, Service de Neuropédiatrie CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Claude Cances
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires AOC, Unité de Neurologie Pédiatrique, Hôpital des Enfants CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Caroline Espil-Taris
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires AOC, Unité de Neurologie pédiatrique, CHU Pellegrin, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Davion
- Centre de référence des maladies neuromusculaires Nord Est Ile de France, CHU de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Susana Quijano-Roy
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Ile de France/Est, Hôpital Raymond Poincaré, APHP, Garches, France
| | - Coraline Grisel
- Service de pédiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Brigitte Chabrol
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires de l'enfant PACARARE, Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpital Timone Enfants, 264 rue Saint Pierre, 13385, Marseille Cedex 5
| | - Isabelle Desguerre
- Centre de Référence des Maladies Neuromusculaires Nord/Ile de France/Est, Service de Neurologie pédiatrique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, APHP, Paris, France
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9
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Zhao C, Pu M, Chen D, Shi J, Li Z, Guo J, Zhang G. Effectiveness and Safety of Rituximab for Refractory Myasthenia Gravis: A Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis. Front Neurol 2021; 12:736190. [PMID: 34721267 PMCID: PMC8548630 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.736190] [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: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune neuromuscular disease. Nearly 10-30% of patients with MG are refractory to conventional therapy. Rituximab (RTX), a monoclonal antibody targeting CD20, is increasingly used in autoimmune disorders. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of RTX for refractory MG. Methods: Studies published between January 1, 2000 and January 17, 2021 were searched in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ClincalTrails.gov. Primary outcomes included proportion of patients achieving minimal manifestation status (MMS) or better and quantitative MG (QMG) score change from baseline. Secondary outcomes were glucocorticoids (GC) doses change from baseline and proportion of patients discontinuing oral immunosuppressants. Results: A total of 24 studies involving 417 patients were included in the meta-analysis. An overall 64% (95% confidence interval, 49-77%) of patients achieved MMS or better. The estimated reduction of QMG score was 1.55 (95% confidence interval, 0.88-2.22). The mean reduction of GC doses was 1.46 (95% confidence interval, 1.10-1.82). The proportion of patients discontinuing oral immunosuppressants was 81% (95% confidence interval, 66-93%). Subgroup analyses showed that the proportion of patients achieving MMS or better and discontinuing oral immunosuppressants was higher in MuSK-MG group than those in AChR-MG group. Improvement was more pronounced in patients with mild to moderate MG compared to those with severe MG. Moreover, the efficacy appeared to be independent of the dose of RTX. 19.6% of patients experienced adverse events, most of which were mild to moderate. Only one patient developed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Conclusions: RTX can alleviate the symptom of weakness, decrease QMG score and reduce the doses of steroids and non-steroid immunosuppressive agents in refractory MG. It is well-tolerated with few severe adverse events. Randomized controlled trials are urgently needed to study the efficacy of RTX in treating refractory MG and to identify the characteristics of patients who might respond well to RTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Pu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Dawei Chen
- Department of Neurology, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Shi
- Department of Neurology, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuyi Li
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jun Guo
- Department of Neurology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guangyun Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Air Force Medical Center of PLA, Beijing, China
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10
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Harada Y, Guptill JT. Management/Treatment of Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11940-021-00690-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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11
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Presynaptic Paraneoplastic Disorders of the Neuromuscular Junction: An Update. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11081035. [PMID: 34439654 PMCID: PMC8392118 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11081035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is the target of a variety of immune-mediated disorders, usually classified as presynaptic and postsynaptic, according to the site of the antigenic target and consequently of the neuromuscular transmission alteration. Although less common than the classical autoimmune postsynaptic myasthenia gravis, presynaptic disorders are important to recognize due to the frequent association with cancer. Lambert Eaton myasthenic syndrome is due to a presynaptic failure to release acetylcholine, caused by antibodies to the presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels. Acquired neuromyotonia is a condition characterized by nerve hyperexcitability often due to the presence of antibodies against proteins associated with voltage-gated potassium channels. This review will focus on the recent developments in the autoimmune presynaptic disorders of the NMJ.
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12
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Mathew T, Thomas K, K John S, Venkatesh S, Nadig R, Badachi S, Souza DD, Sarma G, Parry GJ. Effective Early Treatment of AChR Antibody-Positive Myasthenia Gravis with Rituximab; the Experience from a Neuroimmunology Clinic in a Developing Country. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2021; 13:11795735211016080. [PMID: 34045914 PMCID: PMC8135199 DOI: 10.1177/11795735211016080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rituximab is reserved for treating refractory myasthenia gravis (MG) patients. Here we report our experience with rituximab in AChR antibody positive generalized MG (gMG) and impending myasthenic crisis (IMC). Methods This retrospective, observational study, conducted at a tertiary care, neuroimmunology clinic, analyzed the data of patients with AChR antibody positive gMG, treated with rituximab between 1st January 2016 and 30th October 2018. Results Eleven patients with AChR antibody positive gMG received rituximab. Mean age of the cohort was 50.54 ± 18.71 years with 9 males. Seven out of 11 patients received rituximab in the early stage (<2 years from onset) and had good response to treatment. Four of the 5 patients with IMC improved with rituximab alone. In the 10 patients who regularly followed up, there was a significant difference between the QMG scores at baseline and at 1, 2, 6, 12, and 18 months (P < .0001). Conclusion Rituximab appears to be a potentially effective early treatment option for AChR antibody positive generalized MG and impending myasthenic crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Mathew
- Department of Neurology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Kurian Thomas
- Department of Neurology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Saji K John
- Department of Neurology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Shruthi Venkatesh
- Department of Neurology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Raghunandan Nadig
- Department of Neurology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Sagar Badachi
- Department of Neurology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Delon D Souza
- Department of Neurology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Grk Sarma
- Department of Neurology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Gareth J Parry
- Department of Neurology, St. John's Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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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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Cao M, Koneczny I, Vincent A. Myasthenia Gravis With Antibodies Against Muscle Specific Kinase: An Update on Clinical Features, Pathophysiology and Treatment. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:159. [PMID: 32982689 PMCID: PMC7492727 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscle Specific Kinase myasthenia gravis (MuSK-MG) is an autoimmune disease that impairs neuromuscular transmission leading to generalized muscle weakness. Compared to the more common myasthenia gravis with antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR), MuSK-MG affects mainly the bulbar and respiratory muscles, with more frequent and severe myasthenic crises. Treatments are usually less effective with the need for prolonged, high doses of steroids and other immunosuppressants to control symptoms. Under physiological condition, MuSK regulates a phosphorylation cascade which is fundamental for the development and maintenance of postsynaptic AChR clusters at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). Agrin, secreted by the motor nerve terminal into the synaptic cleft, binds to low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4 (LRP4) which activates MuSK. In MuSK-MG, monovalent MuSK-IgG4 autoantibodies block MuSK-LRP4 interaction preventing MuSK activation and leading to the dispersal of AChR clusters. Lower levels of divalent MuSK IgG1, 2, and 3 antibody subclasses are also present but their contribution to the pathogenesis of the disease remains controversial. This review aims to provide a detailed update on the epidemiological and clinical features of MuSK-MG, focusing on the pathophysiological mechanisms and the latest indications regarding the efficacy and safety of different treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelangelo Cao
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Inga Koneczny
- Division of Neuropathology and Neurochemistry, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Angela Vincent
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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15
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Di Stefano V, Lupica A, Rispoli MG, Di Muzio A, Brighina F, Rodolico C. Rituximab in AChR subtype of myasthenia gravis: systematic review. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2020; 91:392-395. [PMID: 32098874 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2019-322606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disorder of the neuromuscular junction characterised by an autoantibody against acetylcholine receptor (AChR-Ab), autoantibody against muscle-specific kinase (MuSK-Ab), lipoprotein-related protein 4 or agrin in the postsynaptic membrane at the neuromuscular junction. Many patients are resistant to conventional treatment and effective therapies are needed. Rituximab (RTX) is a monoclonal antibody directed against CD20 antigen on B cells which has been successfully employed in anti-MuSK-Ab+MG, but the efficacy in anti-AChR-Ab+MG is still debated. The purpose of this systematic review was to describe the best evidence for RTX in the acetylcholine receptor subtype. The authors undertook a literature search during the period of 1999-2019 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analys methodology, employing (myasthenia)+(gravis)+(RTX) as search terms. The analysis was confined to studies that include at least five patients with confirmed anti-AChR-Ab+MG. Thirteen studies have been selected, showing a good safety. The data obtained were heterogeneous in terms of posology, administration scheme and patients' evaluation, ranging from a minimum of two to a maximum of three cycles. RTX led to a sustained clinical improvement with prolonged time to relapse, in parallel to a reduction or discontinuation of other immunosuppressive therapies. Treatment with RTX appears to work in some but not all patients with anti-AChR-Ab+MG, but randomised controlled trials are needed. Future studies should take into account the subtype of MG and employ reliable measures of outcome and severity focusing on how to identify patients who may benefit from the treatment. Trial registration number: NCT02110706.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Di Stefano
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Palermo, Sicily, Italy .,Department of Neuroscience Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Gabriele d'Annunzio University of Chieti and Pescara, Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy
| | - Antonino Lupica
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Disease, University of Messina, Messina, Sicilia, Italy
| | - Marianna Gabriella Rispoli
- Department of Neuroscience Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Gabriele d'Annunzio University of Chieti and Pescara, Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Muzio
- Department of Neurology, SS Annunziata Hospital, Chieti, Abruzzo, Italy
| | - Filippo Brighina
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
| | - Carmelo Rodolico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Neurology and Neuromuscular Disease, University of Messina, Messina, Sicilia, Italy
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16
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Abstract
Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome is a paraneoplastic or primary autoimmune neuromuscular junction disorder characterized by proximal weakness, autonomic dysfunction and ariflexia. The characteristic symptoms are thought to be caused by antibodies generated against the P/Q-type voltage-gated calcium channels present on presynaptic nerve terminals and by diminished release of acetylcholine. More than half of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome cases are associated with small cell lung carcinoma. Diagnosis is confirmed by serologic testing and electrophysiologic studies. 3,4-diaminopyridine is effective symptomatic treatment of LEMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vita G Kesner
- Neurology Department, 12 Executive Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
| | - Shin J Oh
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Neurology, SC 350, 1720 2nd Ave South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Mazen M Dimachkie
- Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Mail Stop 2012, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Richard J Barohn
- Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Mail Stop 2012, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
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17
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Anwar A, Saleem S, Ahmed MF, Ashraf S, Ashraf S. Recent Advances and Therapeutic Options in Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome. Cureus 2019; 11:e5450. [PMID: 31637147 PMCID: PMC6799875 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.5450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS) is an autoimmune-mediated neurological disorder that manifests as muscle fatigue, diminished tendon reflexes, with symptoms of cholinergic overactivity. It can be associated with certain neoplastic conditions, the most common being small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). The basic pathophysiology involved is antibody-mediated targeting of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC), which decreases the release of acetylcholine in the synaptic junction. Multiple treatment options have been introduced in the past and, recently, a new drug, amifampridine, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of weakness associated with these patients. We summarize this newly introduced drug with a brief description of other treatment options available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsalan Anwar
- Neurology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, USA
| | | | | | - Sara Ashraf
- Internal Medicine, Sharif Medical and Dental College, Lahore, PAK
| | - Sameen Ashraf
- Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College and Civil Hospital Karachi, Karachi, PAK
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18
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Yoon CH, Owusu-Guha J, Smith A, Buschur P. Amifampridine for the Management of Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome: A New Take on an Old Drug. Ann Pharmacother 2019; 54:56-63. [PMID: 31319693 DOI: 10.1177/1060028019864574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this article is to review the literature for both 3,4-diaminopyridine (3,4-DAP) and amifampridine for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS). Amifampridine (Firdapse) is the salt form of 3,4-DAP and was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of LEMS. Data Sources: PubMed, TRIP database, and EMBASE searches were conducted without a back date (current to June 2019) utilizing the following search terms: amifampridine, 3,4-diaminopyridine, and Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome. Completed trials were also reviewed at clinicaltrials.gov. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Criteria for article inclusion consisted of human subjects, age ≥18 years, phase II or III clinical trials, and English language for both drugs. Observational and pharmacokinetic studies for amifampridine were also included. Data Synthesis: Prior to the approval of amifampridine, 3,4-DAP was first-line for the management of LEMS symptoms. Two phase III trials have evaluated amifampridine to confirm efficacy, both showing superiority over placebo in the management of LEMS symptoms, with minimal adverse effects. A significant improvement in both quantitative myasthenia gravis scores and Subjective Global Impression scores was established at days 4 and 14. Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice: With an improved stability profile and decreased dose variability, amifampridine will likely assume the role of first-line management of LEMS. Conclusions: Amifampridine has been shown to improve symptoms of LEMS and is generally well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connie H Yoon
- OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Adam Smith
- OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Pamela Buschur
- OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
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19
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Ivanovski T, Miralles F. Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic syndrome: early diagnosis is key. Degener Neurol Neuromuscul Dis 2019; 9:27-37. [PMID: 31191084 PMCID: PMC6524763 DOI: 10.2147/dnnd.s192588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is an uncommon disorder of neuromuscular transmission with distinctive pathophysiological, clinical, electrophysiological and laboratory features. There are two forms of LEMS. The paraneoplastic (P-LEMS) form is associated with a malignant tumor that is most frequently a small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC), and the autoimmune (A-LEMS) form is often related to other dysimmune diseases. Approximately 90% of LEMS patients present antibodies against presynaptic membrane P/Q-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC). These antibodies are directly implicated in the pathophysiology of the disorder, provoke reduced acetylcholine (ACh) at the nerve terminal and consequently lead to muscle weakness. LEMS is clinically characterized by proximal muscle weakness, autonomic dysfunction and areflexia. In clinically suspected cases, diagnoses are confirmed by serological and electrodiagnostic tests. The detection of P/Q-type VGCC antibodies is supportive when there is clinical suspicion but should be carefully interpreted in the absence of characteristic clinical or electrodiagnostic features. Typical electrodiagnostic findings (ie, reduced compound motor action potentials (CMAPs), significant decrements in the responses to low frequency stimulation and incremental responses after brief exercise or high-frequency stimulation) reflect the existence of a presynaptic transmission defect and are key confirmatory criteria. Diagnosis requires a high level of awareness and necessitates the initiation of a prompt screening and surveillance process to detect and treat malignant tumors. In clinically affected patients without cancer and after cancer treatment, symptomatic treatment with 3,4-diaminopyridine or immunosuppressive agents can significantly improve neurologic symptoms and the quality of life. We present a detailed review of LEMS with special emphasis on the pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical manifestation and diagnostic procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trajche Ivanovski
- Neurology Department, Hospital Universitari Son Llatzer, Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | - Francesc Miralles
- Neurology Department, Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
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20
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Liu Y, Xi J, Zhou L, Wu H, Yue D, Zhu W, Lin J, Lu J, Zhao C, Qiao K. Clinical characteristics and long term follow-up of Lambert-Eaton myasthenia syndrome in patients with and without small cell lung cancer. J Clin Neurosci 2019; 65:41-45. [PMID: 31072737 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
In order to describe the clinical characteristics, treatment response and long-term follow up in Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) patients with and without small cell lung cancer (SCLC) in East China, patients seen in Huashan Hospital from January 1997 to December 2017 were included. Clinical information was collected retrospectively and quantitative MG (QMG) score, manual muscle testing (MMT), activities of daily living (ADL) scale were evaluated when the patients were followed up. Of 50 patients, 23 (46%) were SCLC-LEMS and 20 (40%) were nontumor LEMS (NT-LEMS). The median onset age was 55.5 (18-86) years old and the gender ratio was about 1.8:1. It took less time to make the diagnosis (median time: 6 vs 22.5 months, p = 0.0003) and there were more patients with other paraneoplastic syndromes in SCLC-LEMS group than in NT-LEMS group (8/23 vs 0/20, p = 0.0042). Electrophysiologically, the peroneal compound motor action potential (CMAP) of rest showed difference between SCLC-LEMS and NT-LEMS (0.8 vs 1.6 mV, p = 0.0499). The median survival time of 19 SCLC-LEMS patients since the diagnosis of SCLC was 30 months. According to their survival time, SCLC patients with LEMS showed a more favorable prognosis than those without LEMS. In the time of follow-up, most NT-LEMS showed improvement or obtained status of CSR/PR/MM after immunosuppressive therapy and no significant difference in proportion of achieving CSR/PR/MM was found between SCLC-LEMS and NT-LEMS patients (0/5 vs 6/13, p = 0.114).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Liu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 20040, China
| | - Jianying Xi
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 20040, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 20040, China
| | - Hui Wu
- Department of Neurology, Jing'an District Center Hospital of Shanghai, 20040, China
| | - Dongyue Yue
- Department of Neurology, Jing'an District Center Hospital of Shanghai, 20040, China
| | - Wenhua Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 20040, China
| | - Jie Lin
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 20040, China
| | - Jiahong Lu
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 20040, China
| | - Chongbo Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 20040, China; Department of Neurology, Jing'an District Center Hospital of Shanghai, 20040, China
| | - Kai Qiao
- Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 20040, China.
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21
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Al-bassam W, Kubicki M, Bailey M, Walker L, Young P, Pilcher DV, Bellomo R. Characteristics, incidence, and outcome of patients admitted to the intensive care unit with myasthenia gravis. J Crit Care 2018; 45:90-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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22
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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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23
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Lambert–Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome. Neuromuscul Disord 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-5361-0_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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24
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Barraud C, Desguerre I, Barnerias C, Gitiaux C, Boulay C, Chabrol B. Clinical features and evolution of juvenile myasthenia gravis in a French cohort. Muscle Nerve 2017; 57:603-609. [PMID: 28877546 DOI: 10.1002/mus.25965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In this study we determined the clinical, paraclinical, and treatment-related features of juvenile myasthenia gravis (JMG) as well as the clinical course in a cohort of French children. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of 40 patients with JMG at 2 French pediatric neurology departments from April 2004 to April 2014. RESULTS Among the patients, 70% had generalized JMG, 52% had positive acetylcholine receptor antibodies, 8% had muscle-specific kinase antibodies, and 40% were seronegative. Treatment with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors was effective and sufficient in 47% of patients. The 6 patients with generalized JMG treated with rituximab and/or immunoadsorption showed improvement. Thirty percent of the patients required hospitalization in an intensive care unit during follow-up (mean 4.7 years). Remission without treatment occurred in 18% of patients. DISCUSSION As with adults, JMG has high morbidity, particularly among children with generalized symptoms, and rituximab should be considered early in the course of the disease as a second-line treatment. Muscle Nerve 57: 603-609, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coline Barraud
- APHM Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpital La Timone-Enfants, 264, Rue St Pierre Marseille, 13385, cedex 5, France
- Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Isabelle Desguerre
- APHP Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
- Université René Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Christine Barnerias
- APHP Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Cyril Gitiaux
- Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- APHP Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Boulay
- APHM Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpital La Timone-Enfants, 264, Rue St Pierre Marseille, 13385, cedex 5, France
- Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | - Brigitte Chabrol
- APHM Service de Neuropédiatrie, Hôpital La Timone-Enfants, 264, Rue St Pierre Marseille, 13385, cedex 5, France
- Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France
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25
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Hehir MK, Hobson-Webb LD, Benatar M, Barnett C, Silvestri NJ, Howard JF, Howard D, Visser A, Crum BA, Nowak R, Beekman R, Kumar A, Ruzhansky K, Chen IHA, Pulley MT, LaBoy SM, Fellman MA, Greene SM, Pasnoor M, Burns TM. Rituximab as treatment for anti-MuSK myasthenia gravis: Multicenter blinded prospective review. Neurology 2017; 89:1069-1077. [PMID: 28801338 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000004341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of rituximab in treatment of anti-muscle-specific kinase (MuSK) myasthenia gravis (MG). METHODS This was a multicenter, blinded, prospective review, comparing anti-MuSK-positive patients with MG treated with rituximab to those not treated with rituximab. The primary clinical endpoint was the Myasthenia Gravis Status and Treatment Intensity (MGSTI), a novel outcome that combines the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) postintervention status (PIS) and the number and dosages of other immunosuppressant therapies used. A priori, an MGSTI of level ≤2 was used to define a favorable outcome. Secondary outcomes included modified MGFA PIS of minimal manifestations or better, mean/median prednisone dose, and mean/median doses of other immunosuppressant drugs. RESULTS Seventy-seven of 119 patients with anti-MuSK MG evaluated between January 1, 2005, and January 1, 2015, at 10 neuromuscular centers were selected for analysis after review of limited clinical data by a blinded expert panel. An additional 22 patients were excluded due to insufficient follow-up. Baseline characteristics were similar between the rituximab-treated patients (n = 24) and the controls (n = 31). Median follow-up duration was >3.5 years. At last visit, 58% (14/24) of rituximab-treated patients reached the primary outcome compared to 16% (5/31) of controls (p = 0.002). Number needed to treat for the primary outcome is 2.4. At last visit, 29% of rituximab-treated patients were taking prednisone (mean dose 4.5 mg/day) compared to 74% of controls (mean dose 13 mg/day) (p = 0.001 and p = 0.005). CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE This study provides Class IV evidence that for patients with anti-MuSK MG, rituximab increased the probability of a favorable outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Hehir
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville.
| | - Lisa D Hobson-Webb
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Michael Benatar
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Carolina Barnett
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Nicholas J Silvestri
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - James F Howard
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Diantha Howard
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Amy Visser
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Brian A Crum
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Richard Nowak
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Rachel Beekman
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Aditya Kumar
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Katherine Ruzhansky
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - I-Hweii Amy Chen
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Michael T Pulley
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Shannon M LaBoy
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Melissa A Fellman
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Shane M Greene
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Mamatha Pasnoor
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
| | - Ted M Burns
- From the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont (M.K.H., D.H., S.M.G.), Burlington; Duke University School of Medicine (L.D.H.-W.), Durham, NC; University of Miami Health System (M.B., M.A.F.), FL; University of Toronto School of Medicine (C.B.), Canada; SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine (N.J.S.), NY; UNC School of Medicine (J.F.H.), Chapel Hill, NC; Mayo Clinic (A.V., B.A.C.), Rochester, MN; Yale School of Medicine (R.N., R.B., A.K.), New Haven, CT; Medical University of South Carolina (K.R., I.-H.A.C.), Columbia; University of Florida (M.T.P., S.M.L., Gainesville; University of Kansas Medical Center (M.P.), Kansas City; and University of Virginia School of Medicine (T.M.B.), Charlottesville
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Muto K, Matsui N, Unai Y, Sakai W, Haji S, Udaka K, Miki H, Furukawa T, Abe M, Kaji R. Memory B cell resurgence requires repeated rituximab in myasthenia gravis. Neuromuscul Disord 2017; 27:918-922. [PMID: 28694074 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2017.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The immunologic effects of rituximab (RTX) in myasthenia gravis (MG) remain to be explored. We aimed to clarify immunologic reactions and their association with response to RTX in MG. Regulatory T cell and B cell profiles of MG patients were monitored. Two patients presenting with generalized MG with anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies were treated with RTX. The treatment led to sustained clinical improvement, discontinuation of intravenous immunoglobulin or plasma exchange, and reduction of prednisolone and other drugs. One patient was in remission for more than one year, whereas the other patient exhibited deterioration of symptoms within one year. Disease activity was associated with the repopulation of IgD-CD27- and IgD-CD27+ memory B cells. Clinicians should be aware of the possibility that MG ranges in the duration of B cell depletion and additional RTX should be prescribed upon resurgence of memory B cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Muto
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Naoko Matsui
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.
| | - Yuki Unai
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Waka Sakai
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Shotaro Haji
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kengo Udaka
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Miki
- Division of Transfusion Medicine and Cell Therapy, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takahiro Furukawa
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Masahiro Abe
- Department of Hematology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Ryuji Kaji
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
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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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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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Abstract
Rituximab, a monoclonal antibody targeting the B cell marker CD20, was initially approved in 1997 by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Since that time, rituximab has been FDA-approved for rheumatoid arthritis and vasculitides, such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis. Additionally, rituximab has been used off-label in the treatment of numerous other autoimmune diseases, with notable success in pemphigus, an autoantibody-mediated skin blistering disease. The efficacy of rituximab therapy in pemphigus has spurred interest in its potential to treat other autoantibody-mediated diseases. This review summarizes the efficacy of rituximab in pemphigus and examines its off-label use in other select autoantibody-mediated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina A Ran
- Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, 1009 Biomedical Research Building, 421 Curie Boulevard, PA, USA
| | - Aimee S Payne
- Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, 1009 Biomedical Research Building, 421 Curie Boulevard, PA, USA
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30
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Hayashi R, Tahara M, Oeda T, Konishi T, Sawada H. [A case of refractory generalized myasthenia gravis with anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies treated with rituximab]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2016; 55:227-32. [PMID: 25904250 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.55.227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
We report a case of a 57-year-old woman with thymoma-associated generalized myasthenia gravis (MG) showing severe bulbar and respiratory symptoms, moderate weakness of the neck muscles, and mild weakness of extremity muscles. Corticosteroid treatment with various types of immunosuppressive agents, such as cyclosporine, tacrolimus, and azathioprine, did not improve her symptoms. Plasma exchange transiently improved her symptoms, and she was required to undergo plasmapheresis every 4 weeks. At first, cyclophosphamide pulse therapy was administered, which improved her symptoms transiently. Thereafter, rituximab (RTX) was administered. Six months after RTX administration, respiratory distress and dysphagia improved gradually, and reduction in the dosage of corticosteroids from 30 mg/day to 10 mg/day did not result in symptom deterioration. Therefore, the interval between successive plasmapheresis treatments was increased from 4 to 9 weeks 19 months after the first RTX administration. During a 26-month period from the first administration of RTX, the number of CD20+ B cells in peripheral blood decreased and remained at 0% to 26% of that before RTX treatment. The titer of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies did not change during the first course of treatment (0.6-0.9 nmol/l). The clinical symptom worsened with the increase of the number of CD20+ B cells in peripheral blood in the 27 month after 1st RTX administration. Therefore, RTX was administered a second time, after which the patient's clinical symptoms again improved gradually. The titer of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies came to be stable with 0.5-0.7 nmol and low level during the 2nd course. Corticosteroids could be discontinued in the 16th month. The findings suggest that RTX can be one of the choices for pharmacological therapy in patients with intractable MG accompanied by the presence of anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryutaro Hayashi
- 1.Department of Neurology, Utano National Hospital, 2. Clinical Research Institute, Utano National Hospital
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31
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Motomura M, Nakata R, Shiraishi H. Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome: Clinical review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/cen3.12326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Masakatsu Motomura
- Medical Engineering Course; Department of Engineering; Faculty of Engineering; Nagasaki Institute of Applied Science; Nagasaki Japan
- Department of Neurology and Strokology; Nagasaki University Hospital; Nagasaki Japan
| | - Ruka Nakata
- Department of Neurology and Strokology; Nagasaki University Hospital; Nagasaki Japan
- Department of Neurology; Nagasaki Kita Hospital; Nagasaki Japan
| | - Hirokazu Shiraishi
- Department of Neurology and Strokology; Nagasaki University Hospital; Nagasaki Japan
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Hu MY, Stathopoulos P, O'connor KC, Pittock SJ, Nowak RJ. Current and future immunotherapy targets in autoimmune neurology. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2016; 133:511-36. [PMID: 27112694 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63432-0.00027-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Randomized controlled treatment trials of autoimmune neurologic disorders are generally lacking and data pertaining to treatment are mostly derived from expert opinion, large case series, and anecdotal reports. The treatment of autoimmune neurologic disorders comprises oncologic therapy (where appropriate) and immunotherapy. In this chapter, we first describe the standard acute and chronic immunotherapies and provide a practical overview of their use in the clinic (mechanisms of action, dosing, monitoring, and side effects). Novel approaches to treatment of autoimmune neurologic disorders, through new drug discovery or repurposing, are dependent on improved mechanistic understanding of immunopathology. Such approaches, with emphasis on monoclonal antibodies, are discussed using the paradigm of three autoimmune neurologic disorders whose immunopathogenesis is better understood, specifically myasthenia gravis, neuromyelitis optica, and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy. It is important to realize that the treatment strategy and management plan must be individualized for each patient. In general these are influenced by the following: clinical severity, antibody type, presence or absence of cancer, and prior treatment response, if known.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody Y Hu
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Kevin C O'connor
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Sean J Pittock
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine/Pathology and Neurology, Mayo Clinic, College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Richard J Nowak
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Binks S, Vincent A, Palace J. Myasthenia gravis: a clinical-immunological update. J Neurol 2015; 263:826-34. [PMID: 26705120 PMCID: PMC4826656 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-015-7963-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is the archetypic disorder of both the neuromuscular junction and autoantibody-mediated disease. In most patients, IgG1-dominant antibodies to acetylcholine receptors cause fatigable weakness of skeletal muscles. In the rest, a variable proportion possesses antibodies to muscle-specific tyrosine kinase while the remainder of seronegative MG is being explained through cell-based assays using a receptor-clustering technique and, to a lesser extent, proposed new antigenic targets. The incidence and prevalence of MG are increasing, particularly in the elderly. New treatments are being developed, and results from the randomised controlled trial of thymectomy in non-thymomatous MG, due for release in early 2016, will be of particular clinical value. To help navigate an evidence base of varying quality, practising clinicians may consult new MG guidelines in the fields of pregnancy, ocular and generalised MG (GMG). This review focuses on updates in epidemiology, immunology, therapeutic and clinical aspects of GMG in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Binks
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Angela Vincent
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Jacqueline Palace
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK.
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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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35
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Haroldsen PE, Musson DG, Hanson B, Quartel A, O'Neill CA. Effects of Food Intake on the Relative Bioavailability of Amifampridine Phosphate Salt in Healthy Adults. Clin Ther 2015; 37:1555-63. [PMID: 26101174 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2015.05.498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Revised: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 05/15/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Amifampridine (3,4-diaminopyridine) has been approved in the European Union for the treatment of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome. Amifampridine has a narrow therapeutic index, and supratherapeutic exposure has been associated with dose-dependent adverse events, including an increased risk for seizure. This study assessed the effect of food on the relative bioavailability of amifampridine in healthy subjects and informed on conditions that can alter exposure. METHODS This randomized, open-labeled, 2-treatment, 2-period crossover study enrolled 47 healthy male and female subjects. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive 2 single oral doses of amifampridine phosphate salt (20 mg base equivalents per dose) under fed or fasted conditions separated by a washout period. Blood and urine samples for pharmacokinetic analyses were taken before and after dosing. Plasma concentrations of amifampridine and an inactive 3-N-acetyl metabolite were determined. The relative bioavailability values of amifampridine and metabolite were assessed based on the plasma PK parameters AUC0-∞, AUC0-t, and Cmax in the fed and fasted states using noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis. Parent drug and metabolite excretion were calculated from urinary concentrations. A food effect on bioavailability would be established if the 90% CI of the ratio of population geometric mean value of AUC0-∞, AUC0-t, or Cmax between fed and fasted administration was not within the bioequivalence range of 80% to 125%. Tolerability was assessed based on adverse-event reporting, clinical laboratory assessments, physical examination including vital sign measurements, 12-lead ECG, and concurrent medication use. FINDINGS Food slowed and somewhat decreased the absorption of amifampridine. There was a decrease in exposure (Cmax, 44%; AUC, 20%) after oral administration of amifampridine phosphate salt in the presence of food, and mean Tmax was 2-fold longer in the fed state. The extent of exposure and plasma elimination half-life of the major metabolite was greater than those of amifampridine in the fed and fasted conditions. Mean AUCs in the fed and fasted states were slightly greater in women than men, with no difference in mean Cmax. Orally administered amifampridine was renally eliminated (>93%) as the parent compound and metabolite within 24 hours. Single oral doses of 20 mg of amifampridine phosphate salt were considered well tolerated in both the fed and fasted conditions. High intersubject variability (%CVs, >30%) in amifampridine pharmacokinetic parameter values was observed. IMPLICATIONS At the intended dose under fasting conditions, amifampridine exposure may be increased. European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials identifier: 2011-000596-13.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Boyd Hanson
- BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc, Novato, California
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36
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article reviews the clinical presentations, diagnostic findings, and treatment options for autoimmune myasthenia gravis (MG) and Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome. RECENT FINDINGS Immunologic research is unraveling the immunopathology of MG and identifying targets for novel immune-based therapy of this condition. MG patients with antibodies to muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) frequently present with symptoms and clinical findings that suggest nerve or muscle disease. SUMMARY Early diagnosis and treatment have a marked effect on outcome in these diseases. In most cases, the diagnosis of MG or Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome can be made from the history, supplemented with directed questions, and a physical examination designed to demonstrate variable weakness in affected muscle groups. Appropriate confirmatory tests almost always establish the diagnosis. Although several novel treatment modalities for MG are under investigation, currently available therapies produce substantial improvement in function and quality of life in most patients with this condition. Knowledge about the dosing, adverse effects, and costs of immunomodulatory therapies is essential for the effective management of patients with MG and Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome.
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37
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Biotherapies of neuromuscular disorders. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2014; 170:799-807. [PMID: 25459122 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2014.07.018] [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: 04/14/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on the most recent data on biotherapeutic approaches, using DNA, RNA, recombinant proteins, or cells as therapeutic tools or targets for the treatment of neuromuscular diseases. Many of these novel technologies have now reached the clinical stage and have or are about to move to the market. Others, like genome editing are still in an early stage but hold great promise.
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38
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Heldal AT, Eide GE, Romi F, Owe JF, Gilhus NE. Repeated acetylcholine receptor antibody-concentrations and association to clinical myasthenia gravis development. PLoS One 2014; 9:e114060. [PMID: 25464006 PMCID: PMC4252099 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We aimed to examine the longitudinal association between Myasthenia Gravis (MG) clinical severity and concentration of acetylcholine receptor (AChR)-antibodies to evaluate if AChR-antibody variations correlate to disease severity. A positive AChR-antibody test is specific for MG. MATERIAL AND METHODS All patients from western Norway who had two or more AChR- antibody tests in the period 1983-2013 were identified. The Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) Clinical Classification was used to grade disease development. Multiple ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to estimate a possible predictive effect for AChR-antibody concentration on MGFA classification result. RESULTS In 67 patients two or more AChR-antibody tests with a corresponding MGFA-score were performed, with a total of 309 tests. 56 patients were treated with immunosuppressive drugs and 11 by pyridostigmine only. There was a positive association between concentration of AChR-antibodies and longitudinal MGFA-score for the subgroup with immunosuppressive treatment, but not for those treated with pyridostigmine only. This association between AChR-antibody concentration and MGFA score declined with increasing time since onset (p = 0.005 for the interaction of group×time×concentration). CONCLUSIONS For MG patients with immunosuppressive treatment, repeated AChR-antibody measurements give information about clinical development, and can therefore be of support in therapeutic decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Geir Egil Eide
- Centre of Clinical Research, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Fredrik Romi
- Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jone Furlund Owe
- Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Nils Erik Gilhus
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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39
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Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome – Diagnosis, pathogenesis and therapy. Clin Neurophysiol 2014; 125:2328-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2014.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Revised: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/26/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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40
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Verbeek S, Vanakker O, Mercelis R, Lipka AF, Haerynck F, Dullaers M, Verloo P, Van Coster R, Verhelst H. Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome in a 13-year-old girl with Xp11.22-p11.23 duplication. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2014; 18:439-43. [PMID: 24461257 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2014.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Revised: 12/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is an autoimmune disease of the presynaptic neuromuscular junction, typically occurring in adults as a paraneoplastic syndrome. Only rare cases have been reported in childhood. In most childhood cases, malignancies have not been detected but a propensity to autoimmune disease was noticed. Nevertheless, little is known about genetic factors that may contribute to the susceptibility of an individual to develop LEMS. We report on a 13-year-old girl, known with the Xp11.22-p11.23 duplication syndrome, who presented with severe non-paraneoplastic LEMS. The potential role of this microduplication syndrome in the development of LEMS is explored. Previous literature review of twelve Xp11.2 duplication syndrome patients showed that three of them suffered from various autoimmune diseases. The common duplicated region in those three patients and the presented case comprises 12 disease-associated genes including the FOXP3 (Forkhead Box P3) and WAS (Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome) gene, both implicated in immune function. However, it is unclear whether increased gene dosage of one or both of these genes can cause susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. In conclusion, the presented case emphasizes that autoimmune disease is a recurrent feature of the Xp11.2 duplication syndrome, which should be considered in the follow-up of these patients. The exact mechanism underlying this autoimmune propensity remains to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Verbeek
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology and Metabolism, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Olivier Vanakker
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rudy Mercelis
- Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - A F Lipka
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Filomeen Haerynck
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Immunology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Melissa Dullaers
- Department of Pneumology, Laboratory for Immunoregulation and Mucosal Immunology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verloo
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology and Metabolism, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rudy Van Coster
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology and Metabolism, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Helene Verhelst
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology and Metabolism, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
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Sieb JP. Myasthenia gravis: an update for the clinician. Clin Exp Immunol 2014; 175:408-18. [PMID: 24117026 DOI: 10.1111/cei.12217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper provides a thorough overview of the current advances in diagnosis and therapy of myasthenia gravis (MG). Nowadays the term 'myasthenia gravis' includes heterogeneous autoimmune diseases, with a postsynaptic defect of neuromuscular transmission as the common feature. Myasthenia gravis should be classified according to the antibody specificity [acetylcholine, muscle-specific receptor tyrosine kinase (MuSK), low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4 (LRP4), seronegative], thymus histology (thymitis, thymoma, atrophy), age at onset (in children; aged less than or more than 50 years) and type of course (ocular or generalized). With optimal treatment, the prognosis is good in terms of daily functions, quality of life and survival. Symptomatic treatment with acetylcholine esterase inhibition is usually combined with immunosuppression. Azathioprine still remains the first choice for long-term immunosuppressive therapy. Alternative immunosuppressive options to azathioprine include cyclosporin, cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus. Rituximab is a promising new drug for severe generalized MG. Emerging therapy options include belimumab, eculizumab and the granulocyte- macrophage colony-stimulating factor. One pilot study on etanercept has given disappointing results. For decades, thymectomy has been performed in younger adults to improve non-paraneoplastic MG. However, controlled prospective studies on the suspected benefit of this surgical procedure are still lacking. In acute exacerbations, including myasthenic crisis, intravenous immunoglobulin, plasmapheresis and immunoadsorption are similarly effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Sieb
- Department of Neurology, HELIOS Hanseklinikum Stralsund, University Hospital Bonn, Germany
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42
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Sun F, Ladha SS, Yang L, Liu Q, Shi SXY, Su N, Bomprezzi R, Shi FD. Interleukin-10 producing-B cells and their association with responsiveness to rituximab in myasthenia gravis. Muscle Nerve 2014; 49:487-94. [PMID: 23868194 DOI: 10.1002/mus.23951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Revised: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A subset of regulatory B cells in humans and mice has been defined functionally by their ability to produce interleukin (IL)-10. We characterized IL-10-producing B (B10) cells in myasthenia gravis (MG) patients and correlated them with disease activity and responsiveness to rituximab therapy. METHODS Frequencies of B10 cells from MG patients and healthy controls were monitored by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). RESULTS MG patients had fewer B10 cells than controls, which was associated with more severe disease status. Moreover, patients who responded well to rituximab therapy exhibited rapid repopulation of B10 cells, whereas in patients who did not respond well to rituximab, B10 cell repopulation was delayed. The kinetics of B10 cells were related to the responsiveness to rituximab in MG. CONCLUSIONS We have characterized a specific subset of B10 cells in MG patients which may serve as a marker for disease activity and responsiveness to immune therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Sun
- Department of Neurology and Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
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43
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Lindquist S, Stangel M. 3,4-Diaminopyridine (amifampridine) for the treatment of Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2014. [DOI: 10.1517/21678707.2014.887464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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van Sonderen A, Wirtz PW, Verschuuren JJGM, Titulaer MJ. Treatment options for Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2014. [DOI: 10.1517/21678707.2014.872559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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45
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Italian recommendations for Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) management. Neurol Sci 2014; 35:515-20. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-014-1637-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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46
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Wang C, Chen S, Feng B, Guan Y. Proteasome inhibitors for malignancy-related Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome. Muscle Nerve 2014; 49:325-8. [PMID: 24464710 DOI: 10.1002/mus.24122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Revised: 11/05/2013] [Accepted: 11/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by autoantibodies against presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels that impair neuromuscular transmission. Malignancies, especially small cell lung cancer (SCLC), have been associated with LEMS and account for approximately 60% of cases, making malignancy management a central step in LEMS therapy. In addition, immunosuppressive therapy is also recommended for symptomatic control. Interestingly, both pathological and epidemiological data suggest that the autoimmune response can inhibit progression of tumors in malignancy-associated LEMS. Thus, conventional broad-spectrum immunosuppressants may not be effective agents for treatment of LEMS, especially in those with malignancy-associated LEMS. Recent preclinical and clinical studies have indicated that proteasome inhibitors can eliminate antibody-producing cells efficiently, block dendritic cell maturation, and have anti-tumor activity. We hypothesize that proteasome inhibitors may be promising agents for treatment of malignancy-related LEMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Wang
- Department of Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
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Abstract
Neurologic complications of lung cancer are a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality. Tumor metastasis to the brain parenchyma is the single most common neurologic complication of lung cancer, of any histologic subtype. The goal of radiation therapy and in some cases surgical resection for patients with brain metastases is to improve or maintain neurologic function, and to achieve local control of the brain lesion(s). Metastasis of lung cancer to the spinal epidural space requires urgent evaluation and treatment. Early diagnosis and modern surgical and radiotherapy techniques improve neurologic outcome for most patients. Leptomeningeal metastasis is a less common but ominous occurrence in patients with lung cancer. Lung carcinomas can also occasionally metastasize to the brachial plexus, skull base, dura, or pituitary. Paraneoplastic neurologic disorders are uncommon but important complications of lung carcinoma, and are generally the presenting feature of the tumor. Paraneoplastic disorders are believed to be caused by an autoimmune humoral or cellular attack against shared "onconeural" antigens. The most frequent paraneoplastic disorders in patients with lung cancer are Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, and multifocal paraneoplastic encephalomyelitis, both mainly occurring in association with small-cell lung carcinoma. There is a variety of other paraneoplastic disorders affecting the central and peripheral nervous systems. Some affected patients have a good neurologic outcome, while others are left with severe permanent neurologic disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Dropcho
- Department of Neurology, Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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48
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Keung B, Robeson KR, DiCapua DB, Rosen JB, O'Connor KC, Goldstein JM, Nowak RJ. Long-term benefit of rituximab in MuSK autoantibody myasthenia gravis patients. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2013; 84:1407-9. [PMID: 23761915 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2012-303664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Benison Keung
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, , New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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49
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Heng HS, Lim M, Absoud M, Austin C, Clarke D, Wraige E, Reid C, Robb SA, Jungbluth H. Outcome of children with acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive juvenile myasthenia gravis following thymectomy. Neuromuscul Disord 2013; 24:25-30. [PMID: 24239058 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2013.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2013] [Revised: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Most evidence supporting the benefit of thymectomy in juvenile myasthenia gravis (JMG) is extrapolated from adult studies, with only little data concerning paediatric populations. Here we evaluate the outcome of children with generalized JMG who underwent thymectomy between 1996 and 2010 at 2 tertiary paediatric neurology referral centres in the United Kingdom. Twenty patients (15 female, 5 male), aged 13months to 15.5years (median 10.4years) at disease onset, were identified. Prior to thymectomy, disease severity was graded as IIb in 3, III in 11, and IV in 6 patients according to the Osserman classification. All demonstrated positive anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody titres. All patients received pyridostigmine and 14 received additional steroid therapy. Transternal thymectomy was performed at the age of 2.7-16.6years (median 11.1years). At the last follow-up (10months to 10.9years, median 2.7years, after thymectomy), the majority of children demonstrated substantial improvement, although some had required additional immune-modulatory therapies. About one third achieved complete remission. The postoperative morbidity was low. No benefit was observed in one patient with thymoma. We conclude that thymectomy should be considered as a treatment option early in the course of generalised AChR antibody-positive JMG.
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Affiliation(s)
- H S Heng
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's & St. Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Paediatric Neurology Unit, Institute of Paediatrics, Kuala Lumpur Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - M Lim
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's & St. Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - M Absoud
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's & St. Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - C Austin
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Guy's & St. Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - D Clarke
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's & St. Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - E Wraige
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's & St. Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - C Reid
- Department of Paediatric Nephrology, Evelina's Children Hospital, Guy's & St. Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - S A Robb
- Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - H Jungbluth
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Evelina Children's Hospital, Guy's & St. Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Randall Division for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Muscle Signalling Section, King's College, London, UK; Clinical Neuroscience Division, IoP, King's College, London, UK.
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50
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Berrih-Aknin S, Ragheb S, Le Panse R, Lisak RP. Ectopic germinal centers, BAFF and anti-B-cell therapy in myasthenia gravis. Autoimmun Rev 2013; 12:885-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2013.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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