Plasma exchange for acute attacks of CNS demyelination: Predictors of improvement at 6 months

Efficacy and comparison of corticosteroids only and corticosteroids with plasmapheresis or intravenous immunoglobulin for the treatment of optic neuritis in demyelinating disease: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of treatment of optic neuritis (ON) with corticosteroids (CTC) alone, CTC+plasmapheresis (PLP), and CTC+intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).

DESIGN

After an episode of ON, although visual recovery is usually good, some patients may have significant visual sequelae. While the efficacy of first-line CTC is now indisputable, there is no consensus on the nature of second-line treatment. To date, no systematic review has compared the efficacy of treatment of ON with CTC alone, CTC+plasmapheresis (PLP), and CTC+intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). A meta-analysis is needed to compare the efficacy of PLP and IVIG in steroid-resistant ON.

METHODS

This systematic review included all studies comparing at least two of the three treatments for steroid-resistant ON (CTC alone, CTC+PLP, and CTC+IVIG). From all articles published on PubMed between January 2000 and June 2022, two independent ophthalmologists selected studies of interest using the PRISMA method. Methodology, patient characteristics, and outcomes were identified. A network metaanalysis was then performed to compare the efficacy of the three treatments.

RESULTS

Six comparative studies were included, representing 209 patients. The percentage of significant visual recovery after CTC alone, CTC+PLP, and CTC+IVIG in the acute treatment of steroid-resistant ON was 30 %, 45 %, and 77 %, respectively. Comparison of CTC+IVIG vs CTC alone, CTC+PLP vs CTC only, and CTC+PLP vs CTC+IVIG yielded odds ratios of 12.81, 2.47, and 0.19 respectively.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of steroid-resistant ON with CTC+PLP or CTC+IVIG is more effective than treatment with CTC alone. Although no study has directly compared the two treatments, IVIG may be more effective than PLP.

Efficacy and safety of apheresis therapy in AQP4 antibody-positive NMOSD attack: A propensity score-matched cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Plasma exchange (PE) and immunoadsorption (IA) are recognized as effective ways to treat attacks in AQP4 antibody-positive NMOSD, but high-quality evidence was lacking. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of PE/IA plus intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) in NMOSD attacks using propensity scores to match IVMP as control.

METHODS

Patients were from a prospective observational cohort study. Stratification and interval propensity score matching (PSM) were used to reduce selection bias by matching baseline characteristics (gender, age, time to IVMP, EDSS at attack) between PE/IA + IVMP and IVMP group (in a ratio of 1:2). The primary endpoint of efficacy was EDSS change at 6 months. Adverse events and changes in laboratory tests were recorded.

RESULTS

Four hundred and eleven attacks of 336 patients were screened for PSM, and 90 attacks (30 PE/IA + IVMP and 60 IVMP) were included in the analysis. There were significant differences in EDSS [6.25 vs. 6.75; IQR (4.50-8.38 vs. 5.00-8.00), p = 0.671] and visual acuity [median logMAR = 0.35 vs. 1.00; IQR (0.30-0.84 vs. 0.95-1.96), p = 0.002] change between two groups at 6 months. PE/IA + IVMP treatment demonstrated predictive capacity for good recovery as indicated by an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.726. Fibrinogen reduction was found during PE/IA + IVMP treatment [n = 15 (50.00%)], but no severe adverse events led to apheresis treatment discontinuation.

DISCUSSION

After PSM analysis, IVMP+PE/IA in acute attack of NMOSD achieved better and continuous improvement in neurological function within 6 months compared with IVMP alone. PE/IA treatment showed a good safety profile.

Visual Function Improvement after Plasma Exchange Therapy for Acute Optic Neuritis in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders: Case Series and Review

OBJECTIVE

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) are autoimmune-mediated central nervous system disorders distinguished by the presence of serum aquaporine-4 IgG antibody (AQP4-Ab). The clinical panel comprises severe optic neuritis (ON) and transverse myelitis, which can result in incomplete recovery and a high risk of recurrence.

METHODS

This study aimed to evaluate the visual outcomes of three patients with severe acute ON in NMOSD that was non-responsive to intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP), who received plasma exchange therapy (PLEX). We included three patients (P1, P2 and P3) with severe acute ON who had no improvement after IVMP treatment and were admitted to the ophthalmology department at the Emergency University Hospital Bucharest from January 2022 to September 2023. All three patients with ON were diagnosed in accordance with the criteria described by the Optic Neuritis Treatment Trial. All the subjects were experiencing their first attack.

RESULTS

The mean recruitment age was 35.3 ± 7.71. All patients were seropositive for the AQP4 antibody. All patients were tested for serum myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody but only one showed a positive test (P3). Lesions visible in orbital MRI indicated the involvement of retrobulbar, canalicular and/or intracranial segments. All three subjects had no response or incomplete remission after an IVMP protocol (5 days of 1000 mg intravenous methylprednisolone in sodium chloride 0.9%). The mean time from onset of optic neuritis to PLEX was 37.6 days. The PLEX treatment protocol comprised five cycles of plasma exchange treatment over 10 days, with a plasma exchange session every other day. An amount of 1 to 1.5 volumes of circulating plasma were dialyzed for 2-4 h. At 1 month after the completion of PLEX therapy, BCVA and VF parameters were improved in all three patients.

CONCLUSION

The treatment of ON remains subject to debate and is somewhat controversial. Plasma exchange must be considered as a rescue therapy when IVMP is insufficient for AQP4-ON patients. This study revealed that PLEX treatment effectively improves the visual outcomes of patients experiencing their first attack of severe acute isolated ON after high-dose IVMP treatment. This study suggests that PLEX may be associated with improved visual outcomes in NMOSD acute optic neuritis.

Pediatric neuroinflammatory diseases in the intensive care unit

Inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) include a wide spectrum of autoimmune, autoinflammatory, and paraneoplastic diseases. While many affected patients require acute hospital admission, a subset may present with severe neurological symptoms requiring intensive care unit (ICU) escalation due to disordered consciousness, respiratory failure, status epilepticus, intracranial hypertension, and/or severe autonomic dysregulation.

Consensus recommendations for diagnosis and treatment of Multiple Sclerosis: 2023 revision of the MENACTRIMS guidelines

With evolving diagnostic criteria and the advent of new oral and parenteral therapies for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), most current diagnostic and treatment algorithms need revision and updating. The diagnosis of MS relies on incorporating clinical and paraclinical findings to prove dissemination in space and time and exclude alternative diseases that can explain the findings at hand. The differential diagnostic workup should be guided by clinical and laboratory red flags to avoid unnecessary tests. Appropriate selection of MS therapies is critical to maximize patient benefit. The current guidelines review the current diagnostic criteria for MS and the scientific evidence supporting treatment of acute relapses, radiologically isolated syndrome, clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing remitting MS, progressive MS, pediatric cases and pregnant women. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide practical recommendations and algorithms for the diagnosis and treatment of MS based on current scientific evidence and clinical experience.

The role of plasmapheresis in severe acute disseminated encephalomyelitis with clinical findings of transverse myelitis

INTRODUCTION

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis is a rare acute demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). The pathogenesis remains unclear but is suspected to be autoimmune. High doses of methylprednisolone (HDMP) are currently considered standard of treatment. Plasmapheresis (PE) is typically given in steroid refractory cases. There is currently limited evidence supporting its use in ADEM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We report a 16-year-old girl with ADEM who improved rapidly after initiating PE.

RESULTS

The patient presented with acute onset of multifocal CNS symptoms, including encephalopathy, requiring intensive care unit management. Despite HDMP administration, her clinical condition continued to deteriorate. PE was therefore initiated on the same day as HDMP. Her clinical condition improved significantly following the first session. She was extubated and discharged from the intensive care unit the following day.

CONCLUSION

HDMP combined with PE may be an effective first-line treatment in patients with fulminant ADEM.

Plasmapheresis in the ICU

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a treatment paradigm used to remove harmful molecules from the body. In short, it is a technique that employs a process that functions partially outside the body and involves the replacement of the patient's plasma. It has been used in the ICU for a number of different disease states, for some as a first-line treatment modality and for others as a type of salvage therapy. This paper provides a brief review of the principles, current applications, and potential future directions of TPE in critical care settings.

Monophasic Acquired Demyelinating Syndromes of the Central Nervous System in Children

Acquired demyelinating syndromes of the central nervous system are immune-mediated demyelinating disorders that can affect the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. These disorders have become increasingly recognized in children due to advances in imaging techniques, improvements in diagnostic testing, extensive research into understanding the pathophysiology underlying these disorders, and collaborative multi-institutional efforts to raise awareness of these disorders in children. Moreover, developments in the field of neuroimmunology have allowed us to identify autoantibodies that have presumed causal roles in acquired demyelinating syndromes. Identification of these autoantibodies helps determine clinical course (ie, monophasic vs relapsing course), prognosis, and treatment approach. Acquired demyelinating disorders can affect both children and adults. However, the clinical features, disease course, and treatments are often unique in the pediatric population. Thus, it is important to understand the spectrum of these disorders in children to help provide a timely diagnosis and prompt treatment to achieve optimal outcomes. In this article, the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of the most common monophasic acquired demyelinating syndromes in children will be reviewed.

How do we forecast tomorrows' transfusion: Non-transfusional hemotherapy

Hemotherapy is the treatment of diseases by the use of blood or blood products from blood donation (by others of for oneself). It is clear that blood components transfusion represents the most important part of the activities of the professionals (doctors, nurses, technicians…) working in hemotherapy. But there are others forms of hemotherapy that are steadily growing, that we will discuss: plasma exchange, mononuclear cells collections for cellular therapies, extracorporeal photoapheresis, ABO antigen specific immunoadsorption and autologous platelet lysate.

Plasma exchange in inflammatory demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system: reasonable use in the clinical practice

Plasma exchange (PLEX) is a therapeutic apheresis modality in which the plasma is separated from inflammatory factors such as circulating autoreactive immunoglobulins, the complement system, and cytokines, and its therapeutic effect is based on the removal of these mediators of pathological processes. Plasma exchange is well established for various neurological disorders, and it is applied successfully in central nervous system inflammatory demyelinating diseases (CNS-IDD). It mainly modulates the humoral immune system; thus, it has a greater theoretical effect in diseases with prominent humoral mechanisms, such as neuromyelitis optica (NMO). However, it also has a proven therapeutic effect in multiple sclerosis (MS) attacks. Several studies have suggested that patients with severe attacks of CNS-IDD have poor response to steroid therapy but show clinical improvement after the PLEX treatment. Currently, PLEX is generally established only as a rescue therapy for steroid unresponsive relapses. However, there are still research gaps in the literature regarding plasma volume, number of sessions, and how early the apheresis treatment needs to started. Thus, in the present article, we summarize the clinical studies and meta-analyses, especially about MS and NMO, outlining clinical data regarding the experience with therapeutic PLEX in severe attacks of CNS-IDD, the clinical improvement rates, the prognostic factors of a favorable response, and highlighting the likely role of the early apheresis treatment. Further, we have gathered this evidence and suggested a protocol for the treatment of CNS-IDD with PLEX in the routine clinical practice.

ADC Restriction is Not Associated with Clinical Response to Plasma Exchange Following a Cerebral Attack of Multiple Sclerosis

BACKGROUND

MS is the most common CNS inflammatory demyelinating disease. Plasma exchange (PLEX) has well-demonstrated efficacy in acute corticosteroid-refractory attacks of demyelination but identifying the factors that predict favorable PLEX response remains elusive. We aimed to determine if apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) restriction on brain MRI predicts clinical response to PLEX in individuals with an acute cerebral attack of MS.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of individuals with a cerebral attack of MS who underwent PLEX at Mayo Clinic.

RESULTS

We identified 34 individuals who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Twenty-seven (79%) responded to plasma exchange, with 16/34 (47%) having moderate and 11/34 (32%) marked improvement. Twenty-three (68%) people had ADC restriction on brain MRI prior to PLEX.  ADC restriction did not predict response (p = 0.51). Several other pre-PLEX factors, including sex, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) at initial attack, time to PLEX, and concurrent spinal cord attack, also failed to predict response. Plasma-exchange responders had less disability at 6-month follow-up compared to non-responders (median EDSS 2.5 (range 1.0-10.0) vs. 7.5 (5.5-10.0), p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Acute cerebral attacks of MS have a high rate of plasma exchange response resulting in a lower EDSS at 6-months. ADC restriction does not predict response to plasma exchange.

Rapid Onset of Relapsing Longitudinally Extensive Transverse Myelitis After Lumbar Spinal Surgery

A 58-year-old woman experienced relapsing acute longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis that developed rapidly in 3 days after lumbar surgery. The patient had a history of systemic lupus erythematosus with acute transverse myelitis and had undergone plasmapheresis 16 years ago. New neurologic deficits including paraplegia of the lower limbs, sensory alterations, and bowel incontinence presented 3 days postoperatively. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a long-segment hyperintense signal over the thoracic spine on T2-weighted imaging. Intravenous pulse therapy with high-dose corticosteroid was first used for 5 days but was ineffective. Plasmapheresis after pulse therapy resulted in improved neurologic deficit. The patient then underwent 6 months of rehabilitation therapy but was partially wheelchair bound. She no longer had bladder and bowel incontinence.

Eculizumab for acute relapse of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: Case report

Introduction

Eculizumab has been shown to be an effective and typically well-tolerated medication in the treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in maintaining disease remission in patients who are aquaporin-4 water channel autoantibody (AQP4-IgG) seropositive. The efficacy of eculizumab in an acute relapse of NMOSD however is still under review.

Case

We describe a 46 year-old female who presented with acute left monocular vision loss on a background of bilateral optic neuritis treated 15 years prior as suspected NMOSD. She had very poor vision from the right eye (6/60). On presentation she was not on any long-term immunosuppressive agents. Her serum was positive for AQP4-IgG and MRI brain and spine demonstrated areas of demyelination in the corpus callosum and thoracic spine. She was treated with high dose intravenous methylprednisolone and underwent plasmapheresis for five consecutive days, but continued to clinically deteriorate with ongoing blindness in her left eye (light perception only). She was subsequently administered eculizumab with weaning oral corticosteroids. Clinically her vision improved to counting fingers and she remains on maintenance eculizumab infusions in the community. At 3 months, there is a steady improvement but still significant loss of central vision from that eye.

Conclusion

The utility of eculizumab in NMOSD may assist with treating acute episodes. This theoretically accords with the mode of action in inhibiting conversion of C5–C5a/b, perhaps arresting the acute inflammatory process in this disease. Given that disease burden and mortality in NMOSD is almost entirely related to relapses, increased use of eculizumab acutely could potentially aid recovery from an attack in very severe attacks, and therefore minimize immediate stepwise accrual of disability.

Efficacy of Plasma Exchange Treatment for Demyelinating Optic Neuritis Associated with Various Serum Antibodies: A Prospective Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

To evaluate the value of plasma exchange (PE) for patients with three subtypes of demyelinating optic neuritis (ON): aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody-positive ON (AQP4-ON), myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody-positive ON (MOG-ON), and AQP4 and MOG double-antibody-seronegative ON (D-ON).

METHODS

A single-center prospective study compared the logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at most severe onset, 1 day before intravenous high-dose methylprednisolone (IVMP) treatment, 1 day before PE treatment, after five-cycles of PE therapy, and at 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up visits. The proportions of eyes in each visual outcome category were also compared. Logistic regression and a receiver operating characteristic curve were used to analyze predicted factors for VA improvement.

RESULTS

A total of 124 ON attacks of 122 patients were included. No significant differences were found in BCVA (P = 0.659) before and after PE therapy for 22 D-ON attacks, but VA improved in two of six MOG-ON patients. In 95 AQP4-ON patients suffering 96 attacks, the mean logMAR BCVA markedly improved and was steadily maintained after five-cycles of PE treatments (adjusted P < 0.001), with VA exhibiting a significantly increasing trend (adjusted P = 0.001) after PE treatment. The combination of the number of previous ON episodes and the time window to PE treatment showed accuracy of 74.7% for predicting an improvement in BCVA score ≥ 2 levels. In addition, a combination of logMAR VA before PE and the time window to PE treatment resulted in 83.4% accuracy in predicting whether VA would regain 1.0 logMAR.

CONCLUSION

PE therapy effectively improves visual outcomes for AQP4-ON patients, but offers limited value for D-ON patients. Early initiation greatly increases likelihood of achieving VA improvement.

Plasma Exchange in the Treatment of Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis: Case Report

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system characterized by multiple disseminated lesions. The pathogenesis of this disease is still insufficiently clarified, and the course of the disease is unpredictable. It happens that severe relapses do not respond to drug therapy and in such cases it is recommended therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE).

We present a young man with severe motor relapse, weakness of the left leg, pronounced tremor of the right arm, unstable gait and bilaterally reduction of vision. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed a large number of chronic demyelinating lesions of the white mass, numerous were merged, with signs of brain reduction. The patient underwent five cycles of TPE, which were conducted every other day. Although TPE led to a disturbance of the hemostasis status and some biochemical parameters, the patient’s response to the applied therapy was good. The improvement of the patient’s condition was reflected through the return of vision and a moderate reduction in neurological deficit.

Despite the fact that therapeutic plasma exchange can cause some complications, it should be considered when drug therapy does not lead to improvement in these patients.

Therapeutic plasma exchange for optic neuritis attacks in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

BACKGROUND

Optic neuritis (ON) cause several sequela. Aggressive treatment with plasma exchange (TPE) is an option. This study describe improvement and safety outcomes with TPE.

METHODS

We recruited adults with ON in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) patients treated with TPE. The primary outcome was an improvement in the visual acuity scale (VOS). We described the data and used multivariate logistic regression to identify factors associated with response.

RESULTS

83 patients received 558 TPE sessions. Mean age 40.9 years (±13.7 years); 73.5% women, 50.1% first attack, and 10.7% bilateral. Median VOS: 5 (range [R], 2-7). Median time between onset and TPE was 8 days (R, 1-32. By Keegan's criteria 82.4% experience improvement, 78.3% improve in at least 1 point in VOS. Age and pre-TPE VOS were related with improvement. Low fibrinogen occurs in 26% sessions.

CONCLUSION

TPE is effective and safety for ON. There is a need for a clinical trial using a therapeutic equivalent.

Optic Neuritis in the Era of NMOSD and MOGAD: A Survey of Practice Patterns in Singapore

PURPOSE

The Optic Neuritis Treatment Trial was a landmark study with implications worldwide. In the advent of antibody testing for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease (NMOSD) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD), emerging concepts, such as routine antibody testing and management, remain controversial, resulting mostly from studies in White populations. We evaluate the practice patterns of optic neuritis investigation and management by neuro-ophthalmologists and neurologists in Singapore.

DESIGN

21-question online survey consisting of 4 clinical vignettes.

METHODS

The survey was sent to all Singapore Medical Council- registered ophthalmologists and neurologists who regularly manage patients with optic neuritis.

RESULTS

Forty-two recipients (17 formally trained neuro-ophthalmol-ogists [100% response rate] and 25 neurologists) responded. Participants opted for routine testing of anti-aquaporin-4 antibodies (88.1% in mild optic neuritis and 97.6% in severe optic neuritis). Anti-MOG antibodies were frequently obtained (76.2% in mild and 88.1% in severe optic neuritis). Plasmapheresis was rapidly initiated (85.7%) in cases of nonresponse to intravenous steroids, even before obtaining anti-aquaporin-4 or anti-MOG serology results. In both NMOSD and MOGAD, oral mycophenolate mofetil was the preferred option if chronic immunosuppression was necessary. Steroids were given for a longer duration and tapered more gradually than in idiopathic optic neuritis cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Serological testing for NMOSD and MOGAD is considered as a routine procedure in cases of optic neuritis in Singapore, possibly due to local epidemiological features of these conditions. Chronic oral immunosuppression is preferred for the long term, but further research is necessary to establish the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of these practices.

Efficacy and safety of plasma exchange or immunoadsorption for the treatment of option neuritis in demyelinating diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There are no systematic reviews yet that evaluated the effects of PE/IA in patients with optic neuritis (ON) in demyelinating diseases. A meta-analysis of available study is needed to further explore the value of plasma exchange (PE) or immunoadsorption (IA) in treating ON in demyelinating diseases.

METHODS

All relevant articles published on PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP Database, Wanfang, Sinomed and ophthalmology professional websites were searched. Study characteristics, demographic characteristics, clinical features and outcome measures were extracted. Response rate, adverse events (AE) rate, serious adverse event (SAE) rate, the log of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), visual outcome scale (VOS) and expanded disability status scales (EDSS) were evaluated using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

35 studies were included between 1985 and 2020, containing 1191 patients. The response rates of PE and IA in acute attack of ON were 68% and 82% respectively. LogMAR (-0.60 to - 1.42) and VOS (-1.10 to -1.82) had been significantly improved from within 1 month to more than 1 month after PE treatment. Besides, we found that logMAR improved 1.78, 0.95 and 0.38, respectively ,when the time from symptom onset to the first PE/IA was less than 21 days, 21-28 days, and more than 28 days. The pooled mean difference of EDSS was -1.14.Adverse effects rate in patients with PE or IA were 0.20 and 0.06, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The meta-analysis provided evidence that PE/IA treatment was an effective and safe intervention, and it is recommended that early initiation of PE/IA treatment is critical.

The Role of Plasma Exchange in the Treatment of Refractory Autoimmune Neurological Diseases: a Narrative Review

Autoimmune neurological disorders are commonly treated with immunosuppressive therapy. In patients with refractory conditions, standard immunosuppression is often insufficient for complete recovery or to prevent relapses. These patients rely on other treatments to manage their disease. While treatment of refractory cases differs between diseases, intravenous immunoglobulin, plasma exchange (PLEX), and immune-modulating treatments are commonly used. In this review, we focus on five autoimmune neurological disorders that were the themes of the 2018 Midlands Neurological Society meeting on PLEX in refractory neurology: Autoimmune Encephalitis (AE), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum disorders (NMOSD), Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) and Myasthenia Gravis (MG). The diagnosis of inflammatory neuropathies is often challenging, and while PLEX can be very effective in refractory autoimmune diseases, its ineffectiveness can be confounded by misdiagnosis. One example is POEMS syndrome (characterized by Polyneuropathy Organomegaly, Endocrinopathy, Myeloma protein, Skin changes), which is often wrongly diagnosed as CIDP; and while CIDP responds well to PLEX, POEMS does not. Accurate diagnosis is therefore essential. Success rates can also differ within 'one' disease: e.g. response rates to PLEX are considerably higher in refractory relapsing remitting MS compared to primary or secondary progressive MS. When sufficient efforts are made to correctly pinpoint the diagnosis along with the type and subtype of refractory autoimmune disease, PLEX and other immunotherapies can play a valuable role in the patient management.

Therapeutic Response and Possible Biomarkers in Acute Attacks of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders: A Prospective Observational Study

Objective

To explore the outcomes of NMOSD attacks and investigate serum biomarkers for prognosis and severity.

Method

Patients with NMOSD attacks were prospectively and observationally enrolled from January 2019 to December 2020 at four hospitals in Guangzhou, southern China. Data were collected at attack, discharge and 1/3/6 months after acute treatment. Serum cytokine/chemokine and neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels were examined at the onset stage.

Results

One hundred patients with NMOSD attacks were included. The treatment comprised intravenous methylprednisolone pulse therapy alone (IVMP, 71%), IVMP combined with apheresis (8%), IVMP combined with intravenous immunoglobulin (18%) and other therapies (3%). EDSS scores decreased significantly from a medium of 4 (interquartile range 3.0–5.5) at attack to 3.5 (3.0–4.5) at discharge, 3.5 (2.0–4.0) at the 1-month visit and 3.0 (2.0–4.0) at the 3-month visit (p<0.01 in all comparisons). The remission rate was 38.0% at discharge and 63.3% at the 1-month visit. Notably, relapse occurred in 12.2% of 74 patients by the 6-month follow-up. Higher levels of T helper cell 2 (Th2)-related cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, IL-13, and IL-1 receptor antagonist, predicted remission at the 1-month visit (OR=9.33, p=0.04). Serum NfL levels correlated positively with onset EDSS scores in acute-phase NMOSD (p<0.001, R² = 0.487).

Conclusions

Outcomes of NMOSD attacks were generally moderate. A high level of serum Th2-related cytokines predicted remission at the 1-month visit, and serum NfL may serve as a biomarker of disease severity at attack.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04101058, identifier NCT04101058.

Compressive epidural fluid collection secondary to varicella zoster transverse myelitis

Transverse myelitis is often clinically indistinguishable from compressive myelopathies that require emergent neurosurgical intervention. Here, we present a case of acute varicella zoster virus transverse myelitis that was associated with a compressive fluid collection on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) requiring emergent operative intervention. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of acute transverse myelitis and a compressive cord lesion in the adult population.

Therapeutic plasma exchange in MS refractory relapses: Long-term outcome

INTRODUCTION

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is considered a treatment option for steroid-refractory multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses. Our objective was to assess long-term clinical response to TPE in MS steroid-refractory exacerbations.

METHODS

Retrospective study of relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) patients presenting intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMPS)-refractory relapses, who underwent TPE. Response to TPE was assessed at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24-months post-treatment, and compared to a second group of RRMS patients with similar demographic and clinical characteristics presenting, IVMPS-refractory relapses but not treated with TPE. Multivariate regression analysis was used to assess potential predictors of significant clinical response.

RESULTS

Between 2011 to 2020, a total of 23 RRMS patients were treated with TPE. Twenty-one patients not receiving the treatment served as controls. No differences in demographic or clinical characteristics, or predictors of clinical improvement after TPE were detected between groups. Seventy-eight percent of patients treated with TPE presented clinical improvement at 24 months. TPE-treated patients presented lower EDSS scores at 6 and at 24 months. Younger age, presence of gadolinium-enhancing lesions and TPE treatment were associated with better clinical outcomes. No life-threatening side effects were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

TPE is a safe and well tolerated procedure that decreases long-term disability in RRMS patients with IVMPS-refractory relapses.

Rescue immunoadsorption treatment for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder attacks unresponsive to intravenous methylprednisolone

We aimed to evaluate the value of immunoadsorption (IA) treatment after the failure of intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) therapy for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Sixty-one NMOSD attacks unresponsive to IVMP were included: 22 patients received rescue IA (IVMP+IA), 24 underwent rescue plasma exchange (PE) (IVMP+PE), and 21 received no further rescue therapy (IVMP alone). The improvement frequencies were higher in the IVMP+IA and IVMP+PE groups than in the IVMP-alone group (P = 0.024). The effective period for IA treatment may be longer than previously thought. IA treatment for IVMP-resistant NMOSD attacks was effective and comparable to PE treatment.

Therapeutic plasma exchange in steroid-refractory multiple sclerosis relapses. A retrospective two-center study

Background:

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is frequently used in glucocorticosteroid (GCS)-refractory multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses. Data regarding predictors of treatment response are scarce. The objective of this study was to analyze predictive factors for response to TPE in GCS-refractory MS patients.

Methods:

A total of 118 MS patients in two tertiary MS centers were analyzed. Primary outcome was TPE response defined as marked, mild, or no improvement. Secondary outcome was change in expanded disability status scale (ΔEDSS). ΔEDSS and relapse activity within 6 months after TPE were studied.

Results:

Marked or mild improvement was observed in 78.8% of patients. ΔEDSS correlated significantly inversely with time from relapse to start of TPE (τ = –0.239, p = 0.001), age (τ = 0.182, p = 0.009) and disease duration (τ = –0.167, p = 0.017). In multivariate analysis, TPE response was predicted by diagnosis of relapsing MS [odds ratio (OR): 3.1], gadolinum-enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging (OR 3.2), age (OR 0.5 per 5 years older) and time from relapse onset to TPE (OR 0.7 per 7 days longer).

Conclusion:

Patients with longer disease duration and higher EDSS pre and post-TPE were more likely to show further disability progression or relapses within 6 months after TPE. No sustained effects were observed during the follow-up period.

Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in the Critically Ill Patient: Technology and Indications

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is frequently the most common Apheresis Medicine technique used for extracorporeal therapy of a wide variety of renal, neurological, hematological, and other clinical indications. Many of these clinical indications require intensive care during critical illness. Conventional TPE uses one of two main technical methods to achieve the goal of removing known disease mediators from the plasma: using centrifugal forces to separate and remove components of blood, or a membrane filtration method that separates plasma from the cellular components of blood. The following review discusses the basic principles of TPE, the technological aspects, and relevant clinical scenarios encountered in the intensive care unit, including relevant guidelines and recommendations from the American Society for Apheresis.

Timing of plasma exchange for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs) are autoimmune astrocytopathies with predominant involvement of the optic nerves and spinal cord. The current management is high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone, followed by apheresis therapy if it fails. We aimed to investigate plasma exchange (PE) benefits in corticosteroid-refractory NMOSDs.

METHODS

From Embase, PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials, we identified PE-based studies published between Jan 2007 and Dec 2019. We pooled the information of these studies in a binomial meta-analysis. We investigated the factors affecting the efficacy of PE and its adverse events. The effectiveness of PE was assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). The timing of PE initiation was assessed using Spearman correlation analysis.

RESULTS

We included 561 records and identified 8 observational studies, including 228 NMOSD patients. The mean time to the initiation of PE was 11 days, and the average volume of each exchange was 1.5-2 L. PE treatment reduced the mean EDSS score by -1.04 (95% CI, -1.44 to -0.64). The initiation time of PE significantly affected the outcome (EDSS reduction) (P = 0.01; 95% CI, -1.30 to 0.28). In the ≤ 7-day and 8-23-day groups, the mean EDSS decreased by 0.64 (95% CI, -0.93 to -0.34) and 1.41 (95% CI, -1.79 to -1.02), respectively. In addition, PE showed the same efficacy for alleviating the symptoms of NMOSDs, regardless of the day between 8 to 23 days on which it was performed (P = 0.29). Thirty-five (20.8%) of the 168 patients had adverse events.

CONCLUSION

PE can ameliorate severe NMOSDs. PE effectiveness was associated with the duration between disease and the initiation of PE, and the optimal timing for PE initiation is 8 to 23 days after the onset of the disease.

Strategies to Aid Identification of Apheresis PowerFlow Ports: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION

The PowerFlow implantable apheresis intravenous port is a venous access device for therapeutic apheresis procedures. In this case review article, we identify key similarities and differences between apheresis PowerFlow ports and traditional ports. We also list strategies that emergency departments can implement to aid in correct port identification.

METHODS

Using a case review format, we describe the clinical presentation of a 33-year-old female with neuromyelitis optica who was evaluated in the emergency department for an acute exacerbation. She had a history of outpatient apheresis procedures that made use of bilateral PowerFlow ports. Mistaken for a conventional port, the right PowerFlow port was accessed with a Huber needle rather than the appropriate catheter-over-needle device. On infusion of intravenous fluids, the patient experienced pain and swelling. Ultimately, the port malfunctioned and was eventually replaced.

RESULTS

A subsequent root cause analysis identified opportunities for education and aids to improve port identification. To this end, strategies were implemented to appropriately identify the PowerFlow port using at least 2 of the following methods: (1) look in the patient's chart for record of an implantable apheresis intravenous port; (2) check the port identification card, bracelet, or keychain issued at insertion; (3) palpate the port to look for the rounded top and hollow concave entry point; and (4) use x-ray or fluoroscopy to identify radiopaque port markers.

CONCLUSION

When a patient with a history of apheresis procedures presents with an implanted port, steps should be taken to ensure correct identification and access.

Vision improvement in severe acute isolated optic neuritis after plasma exchange treatment in Chinese population: a prospective case series study

Background

Plasma exchange (PE) is often considered as an effective treatment for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and several inflammatory demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system. This study aimed to evaluate the visual outcomes of Chinese patients with severe acute isolated optic neuritis (ON) who received PE therapy after high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) treatment.

Methods

Thirty-seven acute isolated ON patients experiencing their first attack of severe visual impairment without neurological disability were recruited. All subjects received five cycles of double-filtration plasmapheresis. Visual acuity (VA) was documented at onset, 1 day before PE treatment, at each cycle of PE therapy and at the 1-month follow-up visit.

Results

This study included 26 female (70.3%) and 11 male (29.7%) subjects, and 18 subjects (48.6%) had bilateral involvement. The time window between onset and PE treatment was 27.3 ± 12.7 days (range: 6-53 days). Mean VA (logMAR) of the studied eyes at onset, 1-day before PE treatment/after IVMP and after the fifth PE treatment were 3.41 ± 1.50, 2.61 ± 1.64 and 1.66 ± 1.52, respectively (p < 0.001). Nineteen eyes (51.4%) showed no light perception at the onset, and 17 eyes (45.9%) improved to Snellen VA >20/800 after IVMP and PE treatments, among which five eyes (13.5%) recovered to Snellen VA 20/20 (p < 0.001). Predictors of good visual outcome included body mass index [odds ratio (OR) = 0.734, p = 0.044], serum AQP4 antibody-positive status (OR = 0.004, p = 0.001), bilaterality (OR = 0.042, p = 0.008) and time window from onset to PE therapy per 1 day (OR = 0.79, p = 0.002).

Conclusion

This study revealed that PE treatment effectively improves the visual outcomes of patients experiencing their first attack of severe acute isolated ON after high-dose IVMP treatment. Better visual outcomes can be achieved with early PE treatment.

Aggressive multiple sclerosis (2): Treatment

The natural history of multiple sclerosis (MS) is highly heterogeneous. A subgroup of patients has what might be termed aggressive MS. These patients may have frequent, severe relapses with incomplete recovery and are at risk of developing greater and permanent disability at the earlier stages of the disease. Their therapeutic window of opportunity may be narrow, and while it is generally considered that they will benefit from starting early with a highly efficacious treatment, a unified definition of aggressive MS does not exist and data on its treatment are largely lacking. Based on discussions at an international focused workshop sponsored by the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS), we review our current knowledge about treatment of individuals with aggressive MS. We analyse the available evidence, identify gaps in knowledge and suggest future research needed to fill those gaps. A companion paper details the difficulties in developing a consensus about what defines aggressive MS.

Plasma Exchange or Immunoadsorption in Demyelinating Diseases: A Meta-Analysis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease mainly affecting the central nervous system. In MS, abnormal immune mechanisms induce acute inflammation, demyelination, axonal loss, and the formation of central nervous system plaques. The long-term treatment involves options to modify the disease progression, whereas the treatment for the acute relapse has its focus in the administration of high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone (up to 1000 mg daily) over a period of three to five days as a first step. If symptoms of the acute relapse persist, it is defined as glucocorticosteroid-unresponsive, and immunomodulation by apheresis is recommended. However, several national and international guidelines have no uniform recommendations on using plasma exchange (PE) nor immunoadsorption (IA) in this case. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted, including observational studies or randomized controlled trials that investigated the effect of PE or IA on different courses of MS and neuromyelitis optica (NMO). One thousand, three hundred and eighty-three patients were included in the evaluation. Therapy response in relapsing-remitting MS and clinically isolated syndrome was 76.6% (95%CI 63.7–89.8%) in PE- and 80.6% (95%CI 69.3–91.8%) in IA-treated patients. Based on the recent literature, PE and IA may be considered as equal treatment possibilities in patients suffering from acute, glucocorticosteroid-unresponsive MS relapses.

Transverse myelitis masquerading as cauda equina syndrome, stroke and cervical myelopathy

Transverse myelitis is an uncommon but well-defined neurological syndrome. However, a high index of suspicion is needed to diagnose this condition, especially when it occurs in concomitance with preexisting spinal canal stenosis. We report our patient, a 48 year old male, who initially presented to our spine clinic with acute onset unilateral lower limb weakness associated with urinary retention, which was suspected to be cauda equina syndrome due to a prolapsed intervertebral disc. However, initial magnetic resonance (MR) imaging showed only mild spinal canal stenosis from L2-L5 and C3– C6 levels; thus, the possibility of cauda equina syndrome was ruled out. A few days later, patient developed ipsilateral upper limb weakness giving an impression of hemiparesis due to stroke. However, imaging of brain returned normal. There was still a dilemma whether symptoms could be due to cervical myelopathy as there was mild cervical cord compression with early myelomalacia changes, but the findings were subtle to come to a definite conclusion. Subsequently, patient desaturated and required ventilatory support. Repeat MR imaging of the cervical spine revealed T2 hyperintensities spanning multiple levels in the cervical cord which highlighted the possibility of transverse myelitis and the diagnosis was clinched after a CSF analysis. Despite the debilitating effects, patient responded well to corticosteroid therapy and gradually recovered. This case is reported to highlight the diagnostic dilemma and the rapid progression of transverse myelitis that demands timely medical intervention to avoid permanent disabilities.

Perspective: Is therapeutic plasma exchange a viable option for treating Alzheimer's disease?

Therapeutic plasma exchange, consisting of removing blood plasma and exchanging it with donated blood products, has been proposed for treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) to remove senescent or toxic factors. In preclinical studies, administration of plasma from young healthy mice to AD transgenic mice improved cognitive deficits without affecting brain amyloid plaques. Initial encouraging results have been collected in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study in nine AD patients receiving young plasma. In a 14-month double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 322 AD patients, multiple infusions with plasma enriched with albumin with or without immunoglobulins slowed cognitive, functional, and clinical decline, especially in moderately affected patients. Clinical trials of plasma fractions containing hypothetically beneficial proteins are also under way. These initial positive clinical results need to be confirmed in larger and more rigorous controlled studies in which the possible benefits of plasma exchange approaches can be weighed against the intrinsic side effects of repetitive infusion procedures.

Comparing Plasma Exchange to Escalated Methyl Prednisolone in Refractory Multiple Sclerosis Relapses

Intravenous methyl prednisolone (IVMPS) represents the standard of care for multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses, but fail to improve symptoms in one quarter of patients. In this regard, apart from extending steroid treatment to a higher dose, therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has been recognized as a treatment option. The aim of this retrospective, monocentric study was to investigate the efficacy of TPE versus escalated dosages of IVMPS in refractory MS relapses. An in-depth medical chart review was performed to identify patients from local databases. Relapse recovery was stratified as “good/full”, “average” and “worst/no” according to function score development. In total, 145 patients were analyzed. Good/average/worst recovery at discharge was observed in 60.9%/32.6%/6.5% of TPE versus 15.2%/14.1%/70.7% of IVMPS patients, respectively. A total of 53.5% of IVMPS patients received TPE as rescue treatment and 54.8% then responded satisfactorily. The multivariable odds ratio (OR) for worst/no recovery was 39.01 (95%–CI: 10.41–146.18; p ≤ 0.001), favoring administration of TPE as first escalation treatment. The effects were sustained at three-month follow-ups, as OR for further deterioration was 6.48 (95%–CI: 2.48–16.89; p ≤ 0.001), favoring TPE. In conclusion, TPE was superior over IVMPS in the amelioration of relapse symptoms at discharge and follow-up. This study provides class IV evidence supporting the administration of TPE as the first escalation treatment to steroid-refractory MS relapses.

Guidelines on the Use of Therapeutic Apheresis in Clinical Practice - Evidence-Based Approach from the Writing Committee of the American Society for Apheresis: The Eighth Special Issue

The American Society for Apheresis (ASFA) Journal of Clinical Apheresis (JCA) Special Issue Writing Committee is charged with reviewing, updating and categorizing indications for the evidence-based use of therapeutic apheresis (TA) in human disease. Since the 2007 JCA Special Issue (Fourth Edition), the committee has incorporated systematic review and evidence-based approaches in the grading and categorization of apheresis indications. This Eighth Edition of the JCA Special Issue continues to maintain this methodology and rigor in order to make recommendations on the use of apheresis in a wide variety of diseases/conditions. The JCA Eighth Edition, like its predecessor, continues to apply the category and grading system definitions in fact sheets. The general layout and concept of a fact sheet that was introduced in the Fourth Edition, has largely been maintained in this edition. Each fact sheet succinctly summarizes the evidence for the use of TA in a specific disease entity or medical condition. The Eighth Edition comprises 84 fact sheets for relevant diseases and medical conditions, with 157 graded and categorized indications and/or TA modalities. The Eighth Edition of the JCA Special Issue seeks to continue to serve as a key resource that guides the utilization of TA in the treatment of human disease.

Plasma Exchange as a First Line Therapy in Acute Attacks of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders

Background and Aims:

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a demyelinating disorder of central nervous system with deleterious effects. At present Intravenous corticosteroids are used for the relapse as the first line of treatment, but with only a class evidence III-IV. Having an underlying humoral immune mechanism in the pathogenesis of NMOSD and as it is rightly said that “Time is Cord and Eyes”, delaying the time to start plasma exchange (PLEX) awaiting favorable outcome in response to corticosteroids is detrimental for the patient. Hence, PLEX may be a promising first line therapeutic approach in the management of severe attacks of NMOSD. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of PLEX as the first line of treatment for the acute attacks in patients with NMOSD that is being largely used as an add-on therapy for more than 10 years, and also to define the time opportunity window for the starting of PLEX.

Methods:

The study analysed the therapeutic efficacy and safety profile of PLEX as a first line therapy in 30 patients diagnosed with NMOSD over a period of 30 months. PLEX was performed using a Hemonetics Mobile Collection System plus machine with due written consent including the risks and benefits of the treatment that is being proposed to the patient/relative in their own language.

Results:

A total of 30 patients were analysed, out of which 16 were females and rest males. 85% of the patients were in the age group of 25-35 years. All the patients had severe Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores at the baseline, and 73.33% showed significant improvement following PLEX. The only predictor of good outcome was the time to PLEX i.e shorter delay betters the outcome.

Conclusion:

The study ascertained the importance of early PLEX as a therapeutic intervention in severe attacks of NMOSD irrespective of their Anti-Aquaporin 4 (AQP4) antibody status.

Prognostic indicators of improvement with therapeutic plasma exchange in pediatric demyelination

OBJECTIVES

To determine the safety and clinical benefit of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) as rescue therapy in children with acute inflammatory demyelinating CNS syndromes and to identify baseline prognostic indicators of treatment improvement.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective pediatric cohort included all consecutive patients admitted to our hospital over the period from 2003 to 2017 because of a steroid-refractory acute CNS event presumed to be inflammatory who required TPE. Functional status assessment to identify improvement included the following performance category scales: visual outcome, bladder control, gait, and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). These assessments were performed before and after TPE in every patient.

RESULTS

Sixty-five children requiring TPE to treat 78 CNS attacks were included for analysis. Median age at TPE was 10.5 years (1.9-18 years); 45% were girls. Seropositivity (aquaporin-4 water channel-immunoglobulin G [IgG] or myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-IgG) was found in 20 of 42 (48%) patients. Attack phenotypes leading to TPE were optic neuritis (ON) in 42%, longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) in 31%, ON + LETM in 15%, and other combined syndromes in 11%. Overall, moderate to marked neurologic improvement was observed in 72% of children at the end of TPE and in 88.5% at 6 months of follow-up. Lower baseline scores on the EDSS, visual outcome, and gait scales were found to be independent prognostic indicators of treatment benefit. Sex, age at onset and at TPE, attack phenotype, disease duration, and time from attack onset to TPE initiation were not significantly associated with treatment outcome. Adverse events were observed in 31 of 524 (5.9%) procedures, being severe in 4.

CONCLUSIONS

TPE was an effective rescue therapy associated with functional improvement. No therapeutic window for TPE initiation was identified in this pediatric cohort. Overall frequency of adverse events was low; however, serious events should be anticipated and avoided.

CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE

This study provides Class IV evidence that for children with acute inflammatory demyelinating CNS syndromes, TPE leads to functional improvement.

Consensus recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis: 2019 revisions to the MENACTRIMS guidelines

With evolving diagnostic criteria and the advent of new oral and parenteral therapies for MS, most current diagnostic and treatment algorithms need revision and updating. The diagnosis of MS relies on incorporating clinical and paraclinical findings to prove dissemination in space and in time, and exclude alternative diseases that can explain the findings at hand. The differential diagnostic workup should be guided by clinical and laboratory red flags to avoid unnecessary tests. Appropriate selection of multiple sclerosis (MS) therapies is critical to maximize patient benefit. The current guidelines review the scientific evidence supporting treatment of acute relapses, radiologically isolated syndrome, clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing remitting MS, and progressive MS. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide practical recommendations and algorithms for the diagnosis and treatment of MS based on current scientific evidence and clinical experience.

Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Multiple Sclerosis and Autoimmune Encephalitis: a Comparative Study of Indication, Efficacy and Safety

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a well-established method of treatment for steroid-refractory relapses in multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). Little is known about indications and clinical responses to TPE in autoimmune encephalitis and other immune-mediated disorders of the central nervous system (CNS). We performed a retrospective chart review of patients with immune-mediated disorders of the CNS undergoing TPE at our tertiary care center between 2003 and 2015. The response to TPE within a 3- to 6-month follow-up was scored with an established rating system. We identified 40 patients including 21 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS, 52.5%), 12 with autoimmune encephalitis (AE, 30%), and 7 with other immune-mediated CNS disorders (17.5%). Among patients with AE, eight patients had definite AE (Immunolobulin G for N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor n = 4, Leucine-rich, glioma inactivated 1 n = 2, Ma 2 n = 1, and Alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic Acid n = 1). Intravenous immunoglobulins had been given prior to TPE in all but one patient with AE, and indications were dominated by acute psychosis and epileptic seizures. While TPE has a distinct place in the treatment sequence of different immune-mediated CNS disorders, we found consistent efficacy and safety. Further research should be directed toward alternative management strategies in non-responders.

Therapeutic Apheresis in Acute Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis: Current Evidence and Unmet Needs-A Systematic Review

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most abundant inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system. Despite recent advances in its long-term immunomodulatory treatment, MS patients still suffer from relapses, significantly contributing to disability accrual. In recent years, apheresis procedures such as therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) and immunoadsorption (IA) have been recognized as two options for treating MS relapses, that do not respond to standard treatment with corticosteroids. TPE is already incorporated in most international guidelines, although evidence for its use resulted mostly from either case series or small unblinded and/or non-randomized trials. Data on IA are still sparse, but several studies indicate comparable efficacy between both apheresis procedures. This article gives an overview of the published evidence on TPE and IA in the treatment of acute relapses in MS. Further, we outline current evidence regarding individual outcome predictors, describe technical details of apheresis procedures, and discuss apheresis treatment in children and during pregnancy.

Differences in the Reponses to Apheresis Therapy of Patients With 3 Histopathologically Classified Immunopathological Patterns of Multiple Sclerosis

Importance

Plasma exchange and immunoadsorption are second-line apheresis therapies for patients experiencing multiple sclerosis relapses. Early active multiple sclerosis lesions can be classified into different histopathological patterns of demyelination. Pattern 1 and 2 lesions show T-cell- and macrophage-associated demyelination, and pattern 2 is selectively associated with immunoglobulin and complement deposits, suggesting a humoral immune response. Pattern 3 lesions show signs of oligodendrocyte degeneration. Thus it is possible that pathogenic heterogeneity might predict therapy response.

Objective

To evaluate the apheresis response in relation to histopathologically defined immunopathological patterns of multiple sclerosis.

Design, Setting and Participants

This single-center cohort study recruited 69 patients nationwide between 2005 and 2016. All included patients had a diagnosis of early active inflammatory demyelination consistent with multiple sclerosis; were classified into patterns 1, 2, or 3 based on brain biopsy analysis; and underwent apheresis treatments. Patients who had concomitant severe disease, neuromyelitis optica, or acute disseminated encephalomyelitis were excluded.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary therapy outcome was a functionally relevant improvement of the relapse-related neurological deficit. Radiological and Expanded Disability Status Scale changes were secondary outcome parameters.

Results

The mean (SD) age of patients was 36.6 (13.3) years; 46 of the 69 participants (67%) were female. Overall, 16 patients (23%) exhibited pattern 1 lesions, 40 (58%) had pattern 2 lesions, and 13 (19%) had pattern 3 lesions. A functional therapy response was observed in 5 of the 16 patients with pattern 1 disease (31%) and 22 of the 40 patients with pattern 2 disease (55%), but none of the 13 patients with pattern 3 disease exhibited improvement (pattern 2 vs 3 P < .001). Radiological improvements were found in 4 (25%), 22 (56%), and 1 (11%) of patients with patterns 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The respective rates of response measured by changes in Expanded Disability Status Scale scores were 25%, 40%, and 0%. Brainstem involvement was a negative predictive factor for the functional therapy response (logarithmic odds ratio [logOR], -1.43; 95% CI, -3.21 to 0.17; P = .03), while immunoadsorption (as compared with plasma exchange) might be a positive predictive factor (logOR, 3.26; 95% CI, 0.75 to 8.13; P = .01).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study provides evidence that the response to apheresis treatment is associated with immunopathological patterns. Patients with both patterns 1 and 2 improved clinically after apheresis treatment, but pattern 2 patients who showed signs of a humoral immune response benefited most. Apheresis appears unlikely to benefit patients with pattern 3 lesions.

Neurological syndromes driven by postinfectious processes or unrecognized persistent infections

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The immune system serves a critical role in protecting the host against various pathogens. However, under circumstances, once triggered by the infectious process, it may be detrimental to the host. This may be as a result of nonspecific immune activation or due to a targeted immune response to a specific host antigen. In this opinion piece, we discuss the underlying mechanisms that lead to such an inflammatory or autoimmune syndrome affecting the nervous system. We examine these hypotheses in the context of recent emerging infections to provide mechanistic insight into the clinical manifestations and rationale for immunomodulatory therapy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Some pathogens endure longer than previously thought. Persistent infections may continue to drive immune responses resulting in chronic inflammation or development of autoimmune processes, resulting in damage to the nervous system. Patients with genetic susceptibilities in immune regulation may be particularly vulnerable to pathogen driven autoimmune responses.

SUMMARY

The presence of prolonged pathogens may result in chronic immune stimulations that drives immune-mediated neurologic complications. Understanding the burden and mechanisms of these processes is challenging but important.

Immunoadsorption or plasma exchange in steroid-refractory multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica

BACKGROUND

Plasma exchange (PE) and immunoadsorption (IA) are alternative treatments of steroid-refractory relapses of multiple sclerosis (MS) or neuromyelitis optica (NMO).

METHODS

Adverse events and neurological follow-ups in 127 MS- (62 PE, 65 IA) and 13 NMO- (11 PE, 2 IA) patients were retrospectively analyzed. Response was defined by improvements in either expanded disability status scale (EDSS) by at least 1.0 or visual acuity (VA) to 0.5, confirmed after 3 and/or 6 months.

RESULTS

Hundred and forty patients were included in safety analysis, 102 patients provided sufficient neurological follow-up-data. There were no significant differences between IA and PE in side effects (3.9% vs 3.6%, P = .96) or response-rate (P = .65). Responders showed significant lower age (P = .02) and earlier apheresis-initiation (P = .01). Subgroup-analysis confirmed significant lower age in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) /clinical isolated syndrome (CIS).

CONCLUSION

IA and PE seem equally safe and effective in steroid-resistant MS- or NMO-relapses. Early apheresis and low patient age are additional prognostic factors.

Apheresis therapies for NMOSD attacks: A retrospective study of 207 therapeutic interventions

Objective

To analyze whether 1 of the 2 apheresis techniques, therapeutic plasma exchange (PE) or immunoadsorption (IA), is superior in treating neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) attacks and to identify predictive factors for complete remission (CR).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was based on the registry of the German Neuromyelitis Optica Study Group, a nationwide network established in 2008. It recruited patients with neuromyelitis optica diagnosed according to the 2006 Wingerchuk criteria or with aquaporin-4 (AQP4-ab)-antibody-seropositive NMOSD treated at 6 regional hospitals and 16 tertiary referral centers until March 2013. Besides descriptive data analysis of patient and attack characteristics, generalized estimation equation (GEE) analyses were applied to compare the effectiveness of the 2 apheresis techniques. A GEE model was generated to assess predictors of outcome.

Results

Two hundred and seven attacks in 105 patients (87% AQP4-ab-antibody seropositive) were treated with at least 1 apheresis therapy. Neither PE nor IA was proven superior in the therapy of NMOSD attacks. CR was only achieved with early apheresis therapy. Strong predictors for CR were the use of apheresis therapy as first-line therapy (OR 12.27, 95% CI: 1.04-144.91, p = 0.047), time from onset of attack to start of therapy in days (OR 0.94, 95% CI: 0.89-0.99, p = 0.014), the presence of AQP4-ab-antibodies (OR 33.34, 95% CI: 1.76-631.17, p = 0.019), and monofocal attack manifestation (OR 4.71, 95% CI: 1.03-21.62, p = 0.046).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest early use of an apheresis therapy in NMOSD attacks, particularly in AQP4-ab-seropositive patients. No superiority was shown for one of the 2 apheresis techniques.

Classification of evidence

This study provides Class IV evidence that for patients with NMOSD, neither PE nor IA is superior in the treatment of attacks.