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Collongues N, Durand-Dubief F, Lebrun-Frenay C, Audoin B, Ayrignac X, Bensa C, Bigaut K, Bourre B, Carra-Dallière C, Ciron J, Defer G, Kwiatkowski A, Leray E, Maillart E, Marignier R, Mathey G, Morel N, Thouvenot E, Zéphir H, Boucher J, Boutière C, Branger P, Da Silva A, Demortière S, Guillaume M, Hebant B, Januel E, Kerbrat A, Manchon E, Moisset X, Montcuquet A, Pierret C, Pique J, Poupart J, Prunis C, Roux T, Schmitt P, Androdias G, Cohen M. Cancer and multiple sclerosis: 2023 recommendations from the French Multiple Sclerosis Society. Mult Scler 2024; 30:899-924. [PMID: 38357870 DOI: 10.1177/13524585231223880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological data reveal that 45% of persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) in France are more than 50 years. This population more than 50 is more susceptible to cancer, and this risk may be increased by frequent use of immunosuppressive drugs. Consequently, concerns have arisen about the potential increased risk of cancer in PwMS and how patients should be screened and managed in terms of cancer risk. OBJECTIVE To develop evidence-based recommendations to manage the coexistence of cancer and multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS The French Group for Recommendations in MS collected articles from PubMed and university databases covering the period January 1975 through June 2022. The RAND/UCLA method was employed to achieve formal consensus. MS experts comprehensively reviewed the full-text articles and developed the initial recommendations. A group of multidisciplinary health care specialists then validated the final proposal. RESULTS Five key questions were addressed, encompassing various topics such as cancer screening before or after initiating a disease-modifying therapy (DMT), appropriate management of MS in the context of cancer, recommended follow-up for cancer in patients receiving a DMT, and the potential reintroduction of a DMT after initial cancer treatment. A strong consensus was reached for all 31 recommendations. CONCLUSION These recommendations propose a strategic approach to managing cancer risk in PwMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Collongues
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Center for Clinical Investigation, INSERM U1434, Strasbourg, France
- Biopathology of Myelin, Neuroprotection and Therapeutic Strategy, INSERM U1119, Strasbourg, France
- Department of Pharmacology, Addictology, Toxicology, and Therapeutics, Strasbourg University, Strasbourg, France
| | - Françoise Durand-Dubief
- Service de Sclérose en Plaques, Pathologies de la Myéline et Neuro-Inflammation, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Bron, France
| | - Christine Lebrun-Frenay
- Department of Neurology, CHU Nice, Nice, France
- Université Côte d'Azur, UMR2CA-URRIS, Nice, France
| | - Bertrand Audoin
- Department of Neurology, CRMBM, APHM, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Xavier Ayrignac
- Department of Neurology, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, France
- University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- INM, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Caroline Bensa
- Department of Neurology, Hôpital Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France
| | - Kévin Bigaut
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Biopathology of Myelin, Neuroprotection and Therapeutic Strategy, INSERM U1119, Strasbourg, France
| | | | | | - Jonathan Ciron
- CHU de Toulouse, CRC-SEP, Department of Neurology, Toulouse, France
- Université Toulouse III, Infinity, INSERM UMR1291-CNRS UMR5051, Toulouse, France
| | - Gilles Defer
- Department of Neurology, Caen University Hospital, Caen, France
| | - Arnaud Kwiatkowski
- Department of Neurology, Lille Catholic University, Lille Catholic Hospitals, Lille, France
| | - Emmanuelle Leray
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, CNRS, INSERM, ARENES-UMR 6051, RSMS-U1309, Rennes, France
| | | | - Romain Marignier
- Service de Sclérose en Plaques, Pathologies de la Myéline et Neuro-Inflammation, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Bron, France
| | - Guillaume Mathey
- Department of Neurology, Nancy University Hospital, Nancy, France
| | - Nathalie Morel
- Service de Neurologie, Centre Hospitalier Annecy Genevois, Epagny-Metz-Tessy, France
| | - Eric Thouvenot
- Service de Neurologie, CHU de Nîmes, Nîmes, France
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Hélène Zéphir
- University of Lille, INSERM U1172, CHU de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Julie Boucher
- Department of Neurology, CHU de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Clémence Boutière
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Pierre Branger
- Service de Neurologie, CHU de Caen Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Angélique Da Silva
- Breast Cancer Unit, Centre François Baclesse, Institut Normand du Sein, Caen, France
| | - Sarah Demortière
- Department of Neurology, CRMBM, APHM, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Edouard Januel
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France/Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Département de Santé Publique, Paris, France
- Département de Neurologie, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Anne Kerbrat
- Service de Neurologie, CHU de Rennes, France
- EMPENN U1228, INSERM-INRIA, Rennes, France
| | - Eric Manchon
- Service de Neurologie, Centre Hospitalier de Gonesse, Gonesse, France
| | - Xavier Moisset
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, INSERM, Neuro-Dol, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Chloé Pierret
- Université de Rennes, EHESP, CNRS, INSERM, ARENES-UMR 6051, RSMS U-1309, Rennes, France
| | - Julie Pique
- Service de Sclérose en Plaques, Pathologies de la Myéline et Neuro-Inflammation, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Bron, France
| | - Julien Poupart
- Department of Neurology and U995-LIRIC-Lille Inflammation Research International Center, INSERM, University of Lille, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Chloé Prunis
- Department of Neurology, Nancy University Hospital, Nancy, France
| | - Thomas Roux
- Hôpital La Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de Neurologie, Paris, France
- CRC-SEP Paris. Centre des maladies inflammatoires rares du cerveau et de la moelle de l'enfant et de l'adulte (Mircem)
| | | | - Géraldine Androdias
- Service de Sclérose en Plaques, Pathologies de la Myéline et Neuro-Inflammation, Service de Neurologie, Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer, Bron, France
- Clinique de la Sauvegarde-Ramsay Santé, Lyon, France
| | - Mikael Cohen
- Department of Neurology, CHU Nice, Nice, France/Université Côte d'Azur, UMR2CA-URRIS, Nice, France
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Otani IM, Lehman HK, Jongco AM, Tsao LR, Azar AE, Tarrant TK, Engel E, Walter JE, Truong TQ, Khan DA, Ballow M, Cunningham-Rundles C, Lu H, Kwan M, Barmettler S. Practical guidance for the diagnosis and management of secondary hypogammaglobulinemia: A Work Group Report of the AAAAI Primary Immunodeficiency and Altered Immune Response Committees. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2022; 149:1525-1560. [PMID: 35176351 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2022.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Secondary hypogammaglobulinemia (SHG) is characterized by reduced immunoglobulin levels due to acquired causes of decreased antibody production or increased antibody loss. Clarification regarding whether the hypogammaglobulinemia is secondary or primary is important because this has implications for evaluation and management. Prior receipt of immunosuppressive medications and/or presence of conditions associated with SHG development, including protein loss syndromes, are histories that raise suspicion for SHG. In patients with these histories, a thorough investigation of potential etiologies of SHG reviewed in this report is needed to devise an effective treatment plan focused on removal of iatrogenic causes (eg, discontinuation of an offending drug) or treatment of the underlying condition (eg, management of nephrotic syndrome). When iatrogenic causes cannot be removed or underlying conditions cannot be reversed, therapeutic options are not clearly delineated but include heightened monitoring for clinical infections, supportive antimicrobials, and in some cases, immunoglobulin replacement therapy. This report serves to summarize the existing literature regarding immunosuppressive medications and populations (autoimmune, neurologic, hematologic/oncologic, pulmonary, posttransplant, protein-losing) associated with SHG and highlights key areas for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris M Otani
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy and Sleep Medicine, UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco, Calif.
| | - Heather K Lehman
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY
| | - Artemio M Jongco
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Great Neck, NY
| | - Lulu R Tsao
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy and Sleep Medicine, UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco, Calif
| | - Antoine E Azar
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore
| | - Teresa K Tarrant
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Elissa Engel
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jolan E Walter
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St Petersburg, Fla; Division of Allergy and Immunology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa; Division of Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston
| | - Tho Q Truong
- Divisions of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, National Jewish Health, Denver
| | - David A Khan
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
| | - Mark Ballow
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Morsani College of Medicine, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, St Petersburg
| | | | - Huifang Lu
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Section of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
| | - Mildred Kwan
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill
| | - Sara Barmettler
- Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston.
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Donzé C, Papeix C, Lebrun-Frenay C. Urinary tract infections and multiple sclerosis: Recommendations from the French Multiple Sclerosis Society. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2020; 176:804-822. [PMID: 32900473 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2020.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Establish recommendations for the management of UTIs in MS patients. BACKGROUND Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common during multiple sclerosis (MS) and are one of the most common comorbidities potentially responsible for deaths from urinary sepsis. METHODS The recommendations attempt to answer three main questions about UTIs and MS. The French Group for Recommendations in MS (France4MS) did a systematic review of articles from PubMed and universities databases (01/1980-12/2019). The RAND/UCLA appropriateness method, which has been developed to synthesize the scientific literature and expert opinions on health care topics, was used for reaching a formal agreement. 26 MS experts worked on the full-text review and a group of 70 multidisciplinary health care specialists validated the final evaluation of summarized evidences. RESULTS UTIs are not associated with an increased risk of relapse and permanent worsening of disability. Only febrile UTIs worsen transient disability through the Uhthoff phenomenon. Some immunosuppressive treatments increase the risk of UTIs in MS patients and require special attention especially in case of hypogammaglobulinemia. Experts recommend to treat UTIs in patients with MS, according to recommendations of the general population. Prevention of recurrent UTIs requires stabilization of the neurogenic bladder. In some cases, weekly oral cycling antibiotics can be proposed after specialist advice. Asymptomatic bacteriuria should not be screened for or treated systematically except in special cases (pregnancy and invasive urological procedures). CONCLUSION Physicians and patients should be aware of the updated recommendations for UTis and MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Donzé
- Faculté de médecine et de maïeutique de Lille, hôpital Saint-Philibert, groupement des hôpitaux de l'institut catholique de Lille, Lomme, France.
| | - C Papeix
- Département de neurologie, CRCSEP, Sorbonne université, hôpital de la Salpêtrière, AP-HP6, Paris 13, France
| | - C Lebrun-Frenay
- URC2A, université Nice Côté-d'Azur, CRCSEP, neurologie hôpital Pasteur 2, CHU de Nice, 30, voie Romaine, 06003 Nice, France
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Is Fertility Affected in Women of Childbearing Age with Multiple Sclerosis or Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder? J Mol Neurosci 2020; 70:1829-1835. [PMID: 32740781 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-020-01576-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which is more prevalent among women of childbearing age. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a severe autoimmune disease of the CNS with similar prevalence features to MS and has recently been considered a different entity from MS. Measuring ovarian reserve is one way of evaluating fertility. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a peptide hormone produced by ovarian granulosa cells of early follicles and is considered to be a marker for ovarian reserve. With MS and NMOSD predominance in young women, the present study aimed to address the possibility of these diseases affecting fertility by measuring AMH levels in MS and NMOSD patients and comparing it with healthy controls. The present study included 23 relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients, 23 seronegative NMOSD patients, and 23 healthy age-matched controls between 18 and 45 years of age. Serum samples of the three groups were collected, and the AMH levels were measured with AMH Gen II Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, Beckman Coulter kit. In the present study, the AMH levels did not differ significantly between the groups (p = 0.996). The mean AMH in the RRMS group was 3.59 ± 0.55 ng/ml compared with the mean of 3.60 ± 0.50 ng/ml in healthy controls. The mean AMH levels in the NMOSD group were 3.66 ± 0.61 ng/ml. Lower levels of AMH were found to be negatively associated with annualized relapse rate (in both groups of patients) and MS severity score. However, the difference was not significant. In NMOSD patients, the serum levels of AMH were negatively associated with disease duration (r = - 0.42, p = 0.023). There had been a significant negative correlation between mean AMH serum levels with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) at the time of diagnosis and at the time of study in the NMOSD group (r = - 0.402, p = 0.03 and r = - 0.457, p = 0.014, respectively). There was not a significant difference in mean serum AMH levels between RRMS and NMOSD patients compared with that of healthy controls. Further studies with larger sample sizes should be conducted, which take more variables affecting fertility in women with either RRMS or NMOSD into account to put an end to the controversial issue of fertility in this area.
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Boyko AN. Cancers and multiple sclerosis: risk of comorbidity and influence of disease modifying therapy. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2019; 119:86-93. [DOI: 10.17116/jnevro20191192286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common disabling neurologic disease of young adults. There are now 16 US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved disease-modifying therapies for MS as well as a cohort of other agents commonly used in practice when conventional therapies prove inadequate. This article discusses approved FDA therapies as well as commonly used practice-based therapies for MS, as well as those therapies that can be used in patients attempting to become pregnant, or in patients with an established pregnancy, who require concomitant treatment secondary to recalcitrant disease activity.
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Grigoriadis N, Linnebank M, Alexandri N, Muehl S, Hofbauer GFL. Considerations on long-term immuno-intervention in the treatment of multiple sclerosis: an expert opinion. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2016; 17:2085-95. [PMID: 27594523 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2016.1232712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As management of multiple sclerosis (MS) requires life-long treatment with disease-modifying agents, any risks associated with long-term use should be considered when evaluating therapeutic options. AREAS COVERED Immune cells of the innate and adaptive immune systems play various roles in the pathogenesis of MS. MS therapies affect the immune system, each with a unique mode of action, and consequently possess different long-term safety profiles. Rare, but serious safety concerns, including an increased risk of infection and cancer, have been associated with immunosuppressant use. The risks associated with newer immunosuppressive agents, which target specific elements of MS disease pathophysiology, are not yet fully established as the duration of clinical trials is relatively short and post-marketing experience is limited. Non-immunosuppressants used to treat MS have well-defined safety profiles established over a large number of patient-years demonstrating them to be well-tolerated long-term treatment options. When considering the long-term use of disease-modifying agents for treating MS, classification as immunosuppressants or non-immunosuppressants can be useful when evaluating potential risks associated with chronic use. EXPERT OPINION A successful therapeutic strategy for any serious, chronic disease such as MS should weigh effectiveness versus long-term safety of available treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Grigoriadis
- a B' Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Experimental Neurology and Neuroimmunology , AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , Thessaloniki , Greece
| | - Michael Linnebank
- b Klinik für Neurologie Universitätsspital Zürich , Zürich , Switzerland.,c Department of Neurology , Helios-Klinik, Hagen-Ambrock , Hagen , Germany
| | | | - Sarah Muehl
- e Merck (Schweiz) AG, Zug, Switzerland, a subsidiary of Merck KGaA Darmstadt , Germany
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Fertility, pregnancy and childbirth in patients with multiple sclerosis: impact of disease-modifying drugs. CNS Drugs 2015; 29:207-20. [PMID: 25773609 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-015-0238-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, pregnancy-related issues in multiple sclerosis (MS) have received growing interest. MS is more frequent in women than in men and typically starts during child-bearing age. An increasing number of disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) for the treatment of MS are becoming available. Gathering information on their influences on pregnancy-related issues is of crucial importance for the counselling of MS patients. As for the immunomodulatory drugs (interferons and glatiramer acetate), accumulating evidence points to the relative safety of pregnancy exposure in terms of maternal and foetal outcomes. In case of higher clinical disease activity before pregnancy, these drugs could be continued until conception. As for the 'newer' drugs (fingolimod, natalizumab, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate and alemtuzumab), the information is more limited. Whereas fingolimod and teriflunomide are likely associated with an increased risk of foetal malformations, the effects of natalizumab, dimethyl fumarate and alemtuzumab still need to be ascertained. This article provides a review of the available information on the use of DMDs during pregnancy, with a specific focus on fertility, foetal development, delivery and breast-feeding.
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Stankiewicz JM, Kolb H, Karni A, Weiner HL. Role of immunosuppressive therapy for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Neurotherapeutics 2013; 10:77-88. [PMID: 23271506 PMCID: PMC3557368 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-012-0172-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunosuppressives have been used in multiple sclerosis (MS) since 1966. Today, we have many treatments for the relapsing forms of the disease, including 8 US Food and Drug Administration-approved therapies, with more soon to be introduced. Given the current treatment landscape what place do immunosuppressants have in combating MS? Trial work and our experience suggest that immunosuppressives still have an important role in treating MS. Cyclophosphamide finds use in treating patients with severe, inflammatory relapsing remitting MS or those suffering from a fulminant attack. We tend to employ mycophenolate mofetil as an add-on to injectable therapy for patients experiencing breakthrough activity. Some progressive (primary progressive multiple sclerosis or secondary progressive multiple sclerosis) patients may stabilize after treatment with either cyclophosphamide or mycophenolate. We rarely employ mitoxantrone because of potential cardiac or carcinogenic effects. We prefer to use cyclophosphamide or mycophenolate mofetil in preference to methotrexate because evidence of efficacy is limited for this drug. We have less experience with azathioprine, but it may be an alternative for patients with limited options who are unable to tolerate conventional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M. Stankiewicz
- />Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Center for Neurologic Disease and Partners MS Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Hadar Kolb
- />Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler’s Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Arnon Karni
- />Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler’s Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Howard L. Weiner
- />Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Center for Neurologic Disease and Partners MS Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
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Abstract
Prevention of disability through disease-modifying therapies has been a source of significant attention among clinicians treating children and adolescents with multiple sclerosis (MS). In this article, we will review currently available literature on therapies and the management of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis, with specific discussion of therapies for acute exacerbations and disease-modifying therapies that may prevent relapses and slow disease progression, and will include a brief discussion of future directions in symptomatic interventions for cognitive decline, fatigue, and depression in children and adolescents with multiple sclerosis. Our article will focus specifically on children and adolescents with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, as 99% of cases of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis are relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Ann Yeh
- Demyelinating Disorders Program, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Le Bouc R, Zéphir H, Majed B, Vérier A, Marcel M, Vermersch P. No increase in cancer incidence detected after cyclophosphamide in a French cohort of patients with progressive multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2011; 18:55-63. [PMID: 21844065 DOI: 10.1177/1352458511416839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclophosphamide is still used in progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in view of its suggested efficacy and safety in the short term. No data exist on its long-term safety in MS, particularly on the risk of malignancy. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate cancer incidence in MS after cyclophosphamide treatment. METHODS We performed a historical prospective study in a cohort of MS patients treated with cyclophosphamide. We collected demographic data and medical history from medical databases and patient interviews. Reported cancers were histologically confirmed. Cancer incidence was compared with the incidence in the general population by estimating standardized incidence ratios (SIRs). RESULTS We included 354 patients, with a median follow-up of 5 years (range 2-15) after cyclophosphamide treatment. Fifteen patients developed a solid cancer, which occurred at a median of 3 years (range 0.5-14) after cyclophosphamide introduction. The cumulative incidence of cancer after cyclophosphamide was 3.1% at 5 years and 5.9% at 8 years. We found no increase in cancer incidence after cyclophosphamide treatment in men (SIR = 0.83, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.30-1.82), women (SIR = 0.99, 95% CI 0.43-1.95), or men and women combined (SIR = 0.92, 95% CI 0.50-1.54). CONCLUSION We found no evidence of an increased risk of cancer associated with cyclophosphamide treatment in MS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Le Bouc
- Department of Neurology, Université Lille Nord de France, Lille, France
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12
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Awad A, Stüve O. Cyclophosphamide in multiple sclerosis: scientific rationale, history and novel treatment paradigms. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2011; 2:50-61. [PMID: 21180630 DOI: 10.1177/1756285609344375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
For patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), there are currently six approved medications that have been shown to alter the natural course of the disease. The approved medications include three beta interferon formulations, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab and mitoxantrone. Treating aggressive forms of RRMS and progressive disease forms of MS still presents a great challenge to neurologists. Intense immunosuppression has long been thought to be the only feasible therapeutic option. In patients with progressive forms of MS, lymphoid tissues have been detected in the central nervous system (CNS) that may play a critical role in perpetuating local inflammation. Agents that are currently approved for patients with MS have no or very limited bioavailability in the brain and spinal cord. In contrast, cyclophosphamide (CYC), an alkylating agent, penetrates the blood-brain barrier and CNS parenchyma well. However, while CYC has been used in clinical trials and off-label in clinical practice in patients with MS for over three decades, data on its efficacy in very heterogeneous groups of study patients have been conflicting. New myeloablative treatment paradigms with CYC may provide a therapeutic option in patients that do not respond to other agents. In this article we review the scientific rationale that led to the initial clinical trials with CYC. We will also outline the safety, tolerability and efficacy of CYC and provide neurologists with guidelines for its use in patients with MS and other inflammatory disorders of the CNS, including neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Finally, an outlook into relatively novel treatment approaches is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amer Awad
- PhD Departments of Neurology and Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, TX, USA; and Neurology Section, VA North Texas Health Care System, Medical Service, Dallas, TX, USA
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Patti F, Lo Fermo S. Lights and shadows of cyclophosphamide in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Autoimmune Dis 2011; 2011:961702. [PMID: 21547093 PMCID: PMC3087413 DOI: 10.4061/2011/961702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2010] [Revised: 12/29/2010] [Accepted: 01/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (cy) is an alkylating agent used to treat malignancies and immune-mediated inflammatory nonmalignant processes. It has been used as a treatment in cases of worsening multiple sclerosis (MS). Cy is currently used for patients whose disease is not controlled by beta-interferon or glatiramer acetate as well as those with rapidly worsening MS. The most commonly used regimens involve outpatient IV pulse therapy given with or without corticosteroids every 4 to 8 weeks. Side effects include nausea, headache, alopecia, pain, male and women infertility, bladder toxicity, and risk of malignancy. Previous studies suggest that cy is effective in patients in the earlier stages of disease, where inflammation predominates over degenerative processes. Given that early inflammatory events appear to correlate with later disability, a major question is whether strong anti-inflammatory drugs, such as cy, will have an impact on later degenerative changes if given early in the disease to halt inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Patti
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Kuntz NL, Chabas D, Weinstock-Guttman B, Chitnis T, Yeh EA, Krupp L, Ness J, Rodriguez M, Waubant E. Treatment of multiple sclerosis in children and adolescents. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2010; 11:505-20. [DOI: 10.1517/14656560903527218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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15
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Ait Ben Haddou E, Benomar A, Ahid S, Chatri H, Slimani C, Hassani M, El Alaoui Taoussi K, Abouqal R, Yahyaoui M. Efficacité et tolérance du cyclophosphamide dans le traitement de fond des formes progressives de la sclérose en plaques. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2009; 165:1086-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2009.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2008] [Revised: 02/01/2009] [Accepted: 03/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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16
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Rinaldi L, Perini P, Calabrese M, Gallo P. Cyclophosphamide as second-line therapy in multiple sclerosis: benefits and risks. Neurol Sci 2009; 30 Suppl 2:S171-3. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-009-0145-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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17
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Makhani N, Gorman MP, Branson HM, Stazzone L, Banwell BL, Chitnis T. Cyclophosphamide therapy in pediatric multiple sclerosis. Neurology 2009; 72:2076-82. [PMID: 19439723 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0b013e3181a8164c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review our multicenter experience with cyclophosphamide in the treatment of children with multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS Retrospective chart review of children with MS treated with cyclophosphamide. Demographic, clinical, treatment, and MRI parameters were collected. RESULTS We identified 17 children with MS treated with cyclophosphamide. All but one had worsening of Expanded Disability Status Scale scores or multiple relapses prior to treatment initiation. Children were treated with one of three regimens: 1) induction therapy alone; 2) induction therapy with pulse maintenance therapy; or 3) pulse maintenance therapy alone. Treatment resulted in a reduction in relapse rate and stabilization of disability scores assessed 1 year after treatment initiation in the majority of patients. Longer follow-up was available for most cases. Cyclophosphamide was well tolerated in most patients. However, side effects included vomiting, transient alopecia, osteoporosis, and amenorrhea. One patient developed bladder carcinoma that was successfully treated. CONCLUSIONS Cyclophosphamide is an option for the treatment of children with aggressive multiple sclerosis refractory to first-line therapies. Recommendations regarding patient selection, treatment administration, and monitoring are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Makhani
- The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Canada
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18
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Lebrun C, Debouverie M, Vermersch P, Clavelou P, Rumbach L, de Seze J, Wiertlevski S, Defer G, Gout O, Berthier F, Danzon A. Cancer risk and impact of disease-modifying treatments in patients with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2008; 14:399-405. [PMID: 18420778 DOI: 10.1177/1352458507083625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior to the era of immunomodulating or immunosuppressive (IS) treatments Multiple Sclerosis (MS) was linked to reduced rates of cancer. Method A descriptive study of MS patients with a documented oncological event was performed. From 1 January 1995 to 30 June 2006, we collected and studied the profile of 7,418 MS patients gathered from nine French MS centers. We evaluated the incidence of cancer in a Cancer Risk In MS Cohort. RESULTS Thirty one patients (1.75%) with confirmed MS had a history of cancer: mean age at MS diagnosis of 37.9 years and a mean age at cancer diagnosis of 46.4 years. The most frequent cancers were breast (34.5%), gynecological (12.5%), skin (10.2%), acute leukemia and lymphoma (5.9%), digestive (8.8%), kidney and bladder (5.1%), lung (3.4%) and central nervous system (3%). Calculated standardized incidence rates were 0.29 (0.17-0.45) for men and 0.53 (0.42-0.66) for women. The incidence of cancer in this MS population was lower than that expected for the general population. Matched to age, gender and histology, cancers in MS were associated with a young age and exposure to IS treatments. When considering all patients, treated patients had a 3-fold higher risk of developing cancer, if they had a history of IS (P = 0.0035). For treated patients, the cancer sites were more likely the breast, the urinary tract, the digestive system and the skin. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that MS patients do not have an increased risk of cancer. Rather for several types of cancer a significantly reduced risk was observed, except for breast cancer in women treated with IS. The relative increased risk of breast cancer in MS women under IS treatment warrants further attention.
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Boster A, Edan G, Frohman E, Javed A, Stuve O, Tselis A, Weiner H, Weinstock-Guttman B, Khan O. Intense immunosuppression in patients with rapidly worsening multiple sclerosis: treatment guidelines for the clinician. Lancet Neurol 2008; 7:173-83. [PMID: 18207115 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(08)70020-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence link immunosuppression to inflammation in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and provide a rationale for the increasing use of immunosuppressive drugs in the treatment of MS. Treatment-refractory, clinically active MS can quickly lead to devastating and irreversible neurological disability and treating these patients can be a formidable challenge to the clinician. Patients with refractory MS have been treated with intense immunosuppression, such as cyclophosphamide or mitoxantrone, or with autologous haematopoeitic stem cell transplants. Evidence shows that intense immunosuppression might be effective in patients who are unresponsive to immunomodulating therapy, such as interferon beta and glatiramer acetate. Natalizumab, a new addition to the armamentarium for treating MS, might also have a role in the treatment of this MS phenotype. This Review describes the use of intense immunosuppressant drugs and natalizumab in patients with rapidly worsening MS and provides clinicians with guidelines for the use of these drugs in this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Boster
- The Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Center, Department of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, and The Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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20
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Zipoli V, Portaccio E, Hakiki B, Siracusa G, Sorbi S, Amato MP. Intravenous mitoxantrone and cyclophosphamide as second-line therapy in multiple sclerosis: An open-label comparative study of efficacy and safety. J Neurol Sci 2008; 266:25-30. [PMID: 17870094 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2007.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2007] [Revised: 08/13/2007] [Accepted: 08/16/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The study's aim was to compare the efficacy and safety of intravenous cyclophosphamide (CTX) and mitoxantrone (MITO) as second-line therapy in a clinical sample of active relapsing-remitting (RR) or secondary-progressive (SP) multiple sclerosis subjects. MITO was administered at a dosage of 8 mg/m(2) monthly for 3 months, then every 3 months, until a dosage of 120 mg/m(2) was reached. CTX was administered at a dosage of 700 mg/m(2) monthly for 12 months, then bimonthly for another 24 months. We used the Kaplan-Meier curves to assess time to the first relapse in RR and SP patients with relapses, and time to progression on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) in all the patients. MRI was assessed at baseline and after 12 months. Moreover, side effects were recorded. Seventy-five patients received MITO (31 RR, 44 SP) and 78 CTX (15 RR, 63 SP). The two groups differ only in terms of a significantly higher proportion of RR patients in the MITO group. After a mean follow-up of 3.6 years there was no significant difference in terms of time to the first relapse (MITO 2.6 years, CTX 2.5 years; p=0.50), whereas time to disease progression was slightly shorter in MITO than in CTX group (MITO 3.8 years, CTX 3.6 years; p=0.04). After 12 months of treatment, active MRI scans were reduced by 69% in MITO and 63% in CTX patients (p=0.10). Discontinuation due to side effects was more frequent in CTX patients. However, the overall tolerability profile was acceptable in both groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Zipoli
- Department of Neurology, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 85, 50134 Florence, Italy
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21
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Perini P, Calabrese M, Rinaldi L, Gallo P. The safety profile of cyclophosphamide in multiple sclerosis therapy. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2007; 6:183-90. [PMID: 17367264 DOI: 10.1517/14740338.6.2.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (Cyc) is an alkylating agent used to treat malignancies and autoimmune diseases, such as lupus nephritis, rheumatoid arthritis and immune-mediated neuropathies. Over the past 40 years, Cyc has also been applied to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) and the effective stabilisation of rapidly progressive forms of MS has been demonstrated in several studies. Cyc has a dose-dependent bimodal effect on the immune system. High doses have been demonstrated to induce an anti-inflammatory immune deviation (i.e., suppression of T helper 1 and enhancement of T helper 2 activity), affect CD4CD25(high) regulatory T cells and establish a state of marked immunosuppression. Data from the literature suggest that Cyc is particularly indicated in the treatment of young MS patients, suffering from a very active inflammatory disease characterised by frequent relapses and rapid accumulation of disability and displaying gadolinium-enhancing lesions on brain magnetic resonance. The most common Cyc-based therapeutic protocol applied in MS consists of monthly intravenous pulses for 1 year followed by bimonthly pulses for the second year, with or without prior infusion of corticosteroids. This protocol is usually well tolerated by the patients. Indeed, most of the side effects (mild alopecia, nausea and vomiting, cystitis) are dose dependent, transient and completely reversible. Definitive amenorrhoea is observed only in older female patients (aged > 40 years). Cyc has a safety and efficacy profile similar to that of mitoxantrone and can be used in patients whose disease is not controlled by IFN-beta or glatiramer acetate. Short course (6-12 months) of Cyc therapy can precede the initiation of immunomodulatory treatment in selected patients with an aggressive MS onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Perini
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre Veneto Region, First Neurology Clinic, University Hospital, Padova, Italy.
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22
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Lebrun C, Debouverie M, Vermersch P, Clavelou P, Rumbach L, de Seze J, Defer G, Berthier F. [CARIMS (Cancer Risk In Multiple Sclerosis) project: impact of long-term treatment]. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2007; 163:38-46. [PMID: 17304171 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(07)90353-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Controversial results have been published on potential link between cancer and multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis has been linked to reduced rates of cancer prior to the era of immunomodulating or immunosuppressive treatments and until today, only 9 studies can be found in the literature. New strategies and early use of IM or IS drugs in MS justify to study and follow patients to detect a potential increase of cancer's incidence in treated patients. It is important to follow and collect prospectively in MS centers, patients with history of cancer, to document histologies, and potential relations with repeated IM or IS treatments. A prospective study is in progress in French MS centers on behalf the Club Francophone de la SEP (CARIMS Project).
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Affiliation(s)
- C Lebrun
- Service de Neurologie, CHU Pasteur, Nice.
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23
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La Mantia L, Milanese C, Mascoli N, D'Amico R, Weinstock-Guttman B. Cyclophosphamide for multiple sclerosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2007; 2007:CD002819. [PMID: 17253481 PMCID: PMC8078225 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd002819.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis is a presumed cell-mediated autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. Cyclophosphamide (CFX) is a cytotoxic and immunosuppressive agent, used in systemic autoimmune diseases. Controversial results have been reported on its efficacy in MS. We conducted a systematic review of all relevant trials, evaluating the efficacy of CFX in patients with progressive MS. OBJECTIVES The main objective was to determine whether CFX slows the progression of MS. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane MS Group Trials Register (searched June 2006), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library Issue 3 2006), MEDLINE (January 1966 to June 2006), EMBASE (January 1988 to June 2006) and reference lists of articles. We also contacted researchers in the field. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the clinical effect of CFX treatment in patients affected by clinically definite progressive MS.CFX had to be administered alone or in combination with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or steroids. The comparison group had to be placebo or no treatment or the same co-intervention (ACTH or steroids) DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two reviewers independently decided the eligibility of the study, assessed the trial quality and extracted data. We also contacted study authors for original data. MAIN RESULTS Of the 461 identified references, we initially selected 70: only four RCTs were included for the final analysis. Intensive immunosuppression with CFX (alone or associated with ACTH or prednisone) in patients with progressive MS compared to placebo or no treatment (152 participants) did not prevent the long-term (12, 18, 24 months) clinical disability progression as defined as evolution to a next step of Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score. However, the mean change in disability (final disability subtracted from the baseline) significantly favoured the treated group at 12 (effect size - 0.21, 95% confidence interval - 0.25 to -0.17) and 18 months (- 0.19, 95% confidence interval - 0.24 to - 0.14) but favoured the control group at 24 months (0.14, CI 0.07 to 0.21). We were unable to verify the efficacy of other schedules. Five patients died; sepsis and amenorrhea frequently occurred in treated patients (descriptive analysis). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We were unable to achieve all of the objectives specified for the review. This review shows that the overall effect of CFX (administered as intensive schedule) in the treatment of progressive MS does not support its use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- L La Mantia
- Istituto Nazionale Neurologico C. Besta, MS Group, Via Celoria, 11, Milano, ITALY, 20133.
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Perini P, Calabrese M, Tiberio M, Ranzato F, Battistin L, Gallo P. Mitoxantrone versus cyclophosphamide in secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis: a comparative study. J Neurol 2006; 253:1034-40. [PMID: 16609811 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-006-0154-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2005] [Accepted: 01/24/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Fifty secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) patients who had lost one or more EDSS points in the prior two years were selected to receive either cyclophosphamide (25 patients, 13 females, 12 males, F/M = 1.08; mean age: 42.4 years; mean disease duration: 13.3 years; mean EDSS at study entry: 5.7) or mitoxantrone (25 patients, 14 females, 11 males, F/M = 1.27; mean age: 38.2 years; mean disease duration: 11.5 years; mean EDSS at study entry: 5.5). SPMS patients were treated for two years with clinical evaluation (relapse rate, disability progression) every three months and radiological imaging (conventional magnetic resonance imaging) before therapy initiation and at the end of the first and second years of therapy. Safety profile and costs of the two therapeutic protocols were also analysed. In terms of clinical and radiological measures the drugs exerted a quite identical effect on both, and produced a significant reduction in both relapse rate (mitoxantrone Mito): p = 0.001, cyclophosphamide (Cy): p = 0.003) and disability progression (Mito: p = 0.01; Cy: p = 0.01). Subgroups of mitoxantrone- and cyclophosphamide-responding patients were identified (14/25 and 17/25, respectively) and were characterized by a significantly shorter duration of the secondary progressive phase of the disease. In these subgroups, the improvement in the EDSS score at the end of therapy was highly significant (p<0.0001 for Mito, p = 0.0004 for Cy). The safety profiles of both drugs were acceptable; however, the Cy-based therapy protocol was significantly less expensive. We conclude that Cy should be considered as a therapeutic option in rapidly deteriorating SPMS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Perini
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre of Veneto Region First Neurology Clinic, University Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 5, 35128 Padova, Italy
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review focuses on novel aspects of the pathogenesis and advances in the therapy of multiple sclerosis (MS). RECENT FINDINGS Recent observations suggest that early lesion development in MS may start in some forms with oligodendrocyte death and that inflammation appears as a secondary phenomenon only. The lack of sufficient remyelination in MS may be the result of a disturbed function of basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors. Clinically the identification of patients with a clinically isolated syndrome at high risk to develop clinically definite MS remains difficult; the predictive value of serum antibodies against myelin proteins remains controversial. The role of neutralizing antibodies in interferon therapy is discussed. New therapeutic approaches in MS are emerging. SUMMARY The existing view on the pathogenesis of MS is still changing. The original assumption that cell-mediated demyelination is the key event in lesion development dictating clinical disability is critically reviewed and alternative pathways have been suggested. Oligodendrocyte death, axonal loss, the role of CD8 T lymphocytes, T regulatory cells, and B lymphocytes have come into the focus of newly evolving concepts in MS pathogenesis. A deepened understanding of the immunopathogenesis of this disease translates into innovative therapeutic approaches, such as blockade of alpha4 integrins by a humanized monoclonal antibody. In various animal models cell-replacement strategies yield promising results; however, turning these findings into an effective therapy in MS patients has a long way to go.
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Gauthier SA, Buckle GJ, Weiner HL. Immunosuppressive therapy for multiple sclerosis. Neurol Clin 2005; 23:247-72, viii-ix. [PMID: 15661097 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2004.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Susan A Gauthier
- Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 333 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Abstract
Immunosuppressive therapy has been used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) for over 30 years based on the hypothesis that MS is a T cell-mediated autoimmune disease. The most commonly used immunosuppressive agents in MS are azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and mitoxantrone. Since the interferons and glatiramer acetate have become widely used in MS, immunosuppressive agents have found a role given as combination therapy or as monotherapy in instances where the interferons and glatiramer acetate are not effective in controlling the disease. Like the interferons and glatiramer acetate, immunosuppressive drugs are most efficacious in stages of MS that have an inflammatory component as evidenced by relapses and/or gadolinium-enhancing lesions on MRI or in patients in earlier stages of disease where inflammation predominates over degenerative processes in the CNS. There is no evidence of efficacy in primary progressive MS or later stages of secondary progressive MS. In our studies of cyclophosphamide, we have found that although it is a general immunosuppressant that affects both T cell and B cell functions, cyclophosphamide has selective immune effects in MS by suppressing IL-12- and Th1-type responses and enhancing Th2/Th3 responses (IL-4, IL-10, TGF-beta; eosinophils in peripheral blood). Cyclophosphamide and mitoxantrone are the most common immunosuppressive drugs used in patients with rapidly worsening MS whose disease is not controlled by beta-interferon or glatiramer acetate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard L Weiner
- Department of Neurology, Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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de Sèze J. Peut-on courir le risque de l’utilisation des immunosuppresseurs dans les maladies neurologiques chroniques ? Rev Neurol (Paris) 2004; 160:635-6. [PMID: 15247851 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(04)71012-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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