Association between obesity during different age periods and multiple sclerosis in Saudi Arabia: A multicenter case-control study.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether body size in different age periods is associated with an increased risk of MS in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This study included 307 MS patients and 307 healthy controls from clinics and hospital wards in three cities (Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam) in Saudi Arabia (2016-2017). We used Stunkard's standard body silhouettes to determine the participants' body sizes (from 1 to 9) during different age periods (school levels). We calculated adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and performed multivariable analysis adjusted for age and gender. RESULTS: Large body sizes (silhouettes 6-9) and body size 5 during intermediate school were associated with an increased risk of MS (AOR: 3.75, 95% CI: 1.10-12.78 and AOR: 3.75, 95% CI: 1.41-10, respectively). The smallest body size (1) during intermediate school was associated with a lower risk of MS (AOR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.17-0.90) compared to body size 3. CONCLUSION: Overweight and obesity during the intermediate school period (ages 13-15 years) are associated with an increased risk of MS, particularly among females.

Environmental exposures and the risk of multiple sclerosis in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common non-traumatic condition that leads to disability among young individuals. It is associated with demyelination, inflammation, and neurodegeneration within the central nervous system. Information on risk factors of multiple sclerosis is crucial for the prevention and control of the disease. The aim of this study was to determine risk factors of MS among adults in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A matched multicenter case-control study, including 307 MS patients and 307 healthy controls, was conducted in MS clinics and wards in 3 main cities of Saudi Arabia. Age, gender, and hospital were matched. Information on demographics, family history of MS, past medical and family history, sun exposure at different age periods, tobacco use, diet, consanguinity, and coffee consumption was obtained from self-administered questionnaires. ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. A conditional logistic regression model was used to control for potential confounding factors. RESULTS: The conditional logistic regression adjusted for age and gender showed that being the first child in the family (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 1.68, 95% CI: 1.03-2.74), having a family history of MS (AOR 5.83, 95% CI: 2.83-12), eating fast food ≥5 times weekly (AOR 2.05, 95% CI: 1.03-4.08), and having had measles (AOR 3.77, 95% CI: 2.05-6.96), were independently associated with an increased risk of MS. In contrast, eating ≥5 servings of fruit per week (AOR 0.25, 95% CI: 0.16-0.38), drinking coffee daily (AOR 0.46, 95% CI: 0.31-0.68), and having a high level of sun exposure at the primary school level and university level (AOR 0.57, 95% CI: 0.38-0.85 and AOR 0.48, 95% CI: 0.30-0.76, respectively) were independently associated with a decreased risk of MS. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggested that high levels of sun exposure during primary school and university, consumption of fruits and drinking coffee protect against MS. In contrast, eating fast food was associated with an increased risk of the disease. Encouraging outdoor activity and healthy diets in school, especially for females, is highly recommended.

A Rare Case of Varicella-Zoster Virus Meningitis With High Intracranial Pressure in an Immunocompetent Adult.

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is an alphaherpesvirus causing varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster. While varicella typically presents with a vesicular rash, latent VZV may reactivate within the sensory ganglia causing shingles, characterized by painful vesicular rash, which may lead to neurologic complications such as aseptic meningitis. This case explores an atypical presentation in an immunocompetent young man with VZV meningitis lacking the characteristic skin rash but featuring elevated intracranial pressure. A literature review revealed rare instances of VZV-related neurologic disease without typical skin manifestations, suggesting the virus's potential to affect the central nervous system directly. Treatment with intravenous acyclovir is recommended, with ganciclovir as an alternative treatment option. This case emphasizes the importance of considering VZV meningitis in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with viral meningitis symptoms, with or without dermatomal rash or immunocompromised conditions.

Oligoclonal bands and cerebrospinal fluid markers in multiple sclerosis: associations with disease course and progression.

BACKGROUND: The use of oligoclonal bands (OCBs) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters are established in the diagnosis of MS, but poorly as markers of disease. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role of OCBs in disease course and progression. METHODS: CSF data for 1120 patients with MS were analyzed for associations between OCBs and CSF parameters and clinical data (disease course [relapsing-onset MS (ROMS) vs primary-progressive MS (PPMS)]), disability progression (proportion reaching Expanded Disability Status Scale 6 within 10 years of onset and progression index) and ethnicity. RESULTS: Of patients with MS, 72.5% had detectable OCBs. For patients with detectable OCBs, 84.6% had ROMS and 15.4% PPMS versus 89.7% and 10.3%, respectively for those without detectable OCBs (p=0.04). Total CSF IgG and protein levels were higher in PPMS compared with ROMS (p<0.001). Disease progression appeared independent of OCB status. Patients with CSF (vs without) data were more likely to be male, older at onset, have PPMS and lack optic neuropathy at onset (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: OCB positivity and elevated total CSF IgG and protein were moderately associated with a PPMS disease course, but not disease progression. Patients with atypical clinical presentations were more likely to have had CSF work-up, suggesting a testing bias.

Characteristics of multiple sclerosis in aboriginals living in British Columbia, Canada.

OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to identify and describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of multiple sclerosis (MS) in aboriginals in British Columbia (BC), Canada and compare these findings with non-aboriginal MS patients. METHODS: This retrospective chart and database review accessed patient information from the linked BC-wide MS clinical and genetics databases. Data gathered included: demographics (age, sex and ethnicity); clinical characteristics (MS onset date, disease course and disability scores (Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS]). Aboriginals were identified via the database linkage augmented by physician and nurse recall. Two non-aboriginal comparator groups with definite MS were selected. Group one included all definite MS patients in the BC MS database, and group two comprised MS patients matched by sex, age at onset and initial disease course. Patient characteristics were compared using the Student's t-test, chi-squared test, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to examine disease progression (time to sustained and confirmed EDSS 6) RESULTS: We identified 26 aboriginals with MS, of which 19/26 (73%) were female, 23/26 (89%) had relapsing-onset MS and a mean onset age of 31.1 years. There were no significant differences between the MS aboriginals and the non-matched (n = 5708) comparator group with respect to age, sex or disease course (p > 0.1), However, aboriginals progressed more rapidly to EDSS 6 from disease onset (p < 0.001) when compared with the matched and unmatched comparator groups. CONCLUSION: We identified a small, but important cohort of aboriginals with MS; being the largest identified to date. There was evidence of more rapid MS progression in aboriginals compared with non-aboriginals.

Swallowing Apraxia Post Ischemic Stroke.

A 55-year-old male patient with a known medical history of diabetes mellitus type 2 and treated lymphoma was first admitted with a sudden left-sided facial asymmetry and mouth deviation to the left side with no other neurological symptoms. A Computerized Tomography (CT) scan of the brain showed acute infarct and small left basal ganglia old lacunar infarction. He was discharged on a dual antiplatelet. One week later, the patient's condition had worsened and, therefore, was admitted with an impression of ischemic stroke. A bedside swallowing assessment, VFSS, and FEES study were conducted to diagnose this case. The bedside assessment did not reveal any sensory or motor deficits in his oral cavity and the FEES examination was also unable to rule out pharyngeal dysphagia. However, a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) revealed a significant dysfunction of oral preparation and oral phases and presented difficulty initiating the pharyngeal phase. Given these features, we believe that this swallowing difficulty is caused by swallowing apraxia. This case provides additional information and understanding on management from the swallowing side.

Saudi consensus recommendations on the management of multiple sclerosis: MS management in children and adolescents.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) most commonly presents in young adults, although 3-5% of patients develop MS prior to the age of 18 years. The new and comprehensive consensus for the management of MS in Saudi Arabia includes recommendations for the management of MS and other CNS inflammatory demyelinating disorders in pediatric and adolescent patients. This article summarizes the key recommendations for the diagnosis and management of these disorders in young patients. Pediatric and adult populations with MS differ in their presentation and clinical course. Careful differential diagnosis is important to exclude alternative diagnoses such as acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) or neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). The diagnosis of MS in a pediatric/adolescent patient is based on the 2017 McDonald diagnostic criteria, as in adults, once the possibility of ADEM or NMOSD has been ruled out. Few data are available from randomized trials to support the use of a specific disease-modifying therapy (DMT) in this population. Interferons and glatiramer acetate are preferred initial choices for DMTs based on observational evidence, with the requirement of a switch to a more effective DMT if breakthrough MS activity occurs.

Saudi consensus recommendations on the management of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSD).

This article focuses on the diagnosis and management of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). NMOSD is an autoimmune, demyelinating condition characterized by inflammation of the optic nerve and/or the spinal cord, with symptoms that can range from mild impairment of movement to paralysis. The newly approved diagnostic criteria have improved the accuracy of NMOSD diagnosis. The management of NMOSD is under major revolution due to the many new therapeutic options. The role of the antibodies directed at aquaporin-4 (AQP4) has materialized as a biomarker for NMOSD. Several new treatments that target variable aspects in immunopathology such as IL-6, complement, or depletion of B cells are emerging. The management of AQP4-negative patients remains challenging.

Registry of patients with multiple sclerosis and COVID-19 infection in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly spread and developed as a pandemic threatening global health. Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS)-an autoimmune demyelinating inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS)-are predominantly treated with immunomodulatory/immunosuppressive disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), which can increase the risk of infection. Therefore, there is concern that these patients may have a higher risk of COVID-19. In response to growing concerns of neurologists and patients, this study aimed to determine the prevalence, severity, and possible complications of COVID-19 infection in patients with MS in Saudi Arabia (SA). METHODS: In this prospective cohort study, demographic and clinical data were obtained from patients residing in SA with MS who had a positive result for COVID-19 per reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction test or viral gene sequencing, using respiratory or plasma samples. Comparison of COVID-19 severity groups was performed using one-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test for numerical variables and Chi-squared test for categorical variables. RESULTS: Seventy patients with MS and COVID-19 (71% female) were included in this analysis. Of the 53 (75.7%) patients receiving a DMT at the time of COVID-19 infection, the most frequently used DMTs were fingolimod (25%) and interferon-beta (25%). Nine (13%) patients had MS relapse and were treated with intravenous methylprednisolone in the four weeks before COVID-19 infection. The most common symptoms at the peak of COVID-19 infection were fever (46%), fatigue (37%), and headache (36%). Symptoms lasted for a mean duration of 8.7 days; all symptomatic patients recovered and no deaths were reported. COVID-19 severity was categorized in three groups: asymptomatic (n = 12), mild-not requiring hospitalization (n = 48), and requiring hospitalization (n = 10; two of whom were admitted to the intensive care unit [ICU]). Between the three groups, comparison of age, body mass index , Expanded Disability Severity Score , MS disease duration, and DMT use at the time of infection showed no significant differences. A higher percentage of patients who were admitted to hospital or the ICU (40%; p = 0.026) presented with an MS relapse within the prior four weeks compared with those who were asymptomatic or had a mild infection (both 8.3%). CONCLUSION: These findings present a reassuring picture regarding COVID-19 infection in patients with MS. However, patients with MS who have had a relapse in the preceding four weeks (requiring glucocorticoid treatment) may have an increased risk of severe COVID-19.

Family Planning for People with Multiple Sclerosis in Saudi Arabia: an Expert Consensus.

More than half of all patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) are women of childbearing age. Raising a family is an important life goal for women in our region of the world. However, fears and misconceptions about the clinical course of relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and the effects of disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) on the foetus have led many women to reduce their expectations of raising a family, sometimes even to the point of avoiding pregnancy altogether. The increase in the number of DMDs available to manage RRMS and recent studies on their effects in pregnancy have broadened management options for these women. Interferon beta now has an indication in Europe for use during pregnancy (according to clinical need) and can be used during breastfeeding. Glatiramer acetate is a further possible option for women with lower levels of RRMS disease activity who are, or about to become, pregnant; natalizumab may be used up to 30 weeks in patients with higher levels of disease activity. Where possible, physicians need to support and encourage women to pursue their dream of a fulfilling family life, supported where necessary by active interventions for RRMS that are increasingly evidence based.

Cladribine Tablets and Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: A Pragmatic, Narrative Review of What Physicians Need to Know.

Immune reconstitution therapy (IRT) is an emerging management concept for multiple sclerosis, whereby a short course of treatment provides long-lasting suppression of disease activity. "Cladribine tablets 10 mg" refers to a total cumulative dose of cladribine given over 2 years (henceforth referred to as cladribine tablets 3.5 mg/kg); it is a relatively new treatment option that is hypothesised to act as an IRT acting preferentially on the adaptive immune system. A randomised, 2-year, placebo-controlled trial (CLARITY) showed that treatment with cladribine tablets reduced indices of disease activity (relapses, lesions on magnetic resonance images, disability progression) and that this effect outlasted the pharmacologic effect of the treatment on the immune system (mainly a reduction in circulating B and T cells, with little effect on components of the innate immune system such as monocytes). CLARITY Extension, a 2-year extension to this trial, demonstrated durable efficacy, also in patients who received the standard 2-year course of cladribine tablets 3.5 mg/kg and were re-randomised to placebo for a further 2 years. Relative risk reductions for relapse rate with cladribine tablets 3.5 mg/kg were similar for patients with or without prior high disease activity. Reductions in disability progression with cladribine tablets 3.5 mg/kg were higher in patients with prior high relapse rates with or without prior treatment non-response. In this review, we describe the therapeutic profile of cladribine tablets 3.5 mg/kg and provide practical information on initiating this treatment option in the most appropriate patients.

The use of satellite data to measure ultraviolet-B penetrance and its potential association with age of multiple sclerosis onset.

BACKGROUND: Studies have indicated an association between low Ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure and an increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). Few studies, however, have explored whether UVB exposure is associated with the age at MS symptom onset. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the potential association between cumulative early life ambient UVB exposure and age at MS onset, using satellite data to measure ambient UVB exposure. METHODS: Adult onset MS patients were selected from the University of British Columbia's MS genetic database (1980-2005). Patients' places of residence from birth to age 18 years were geocoded (latitude and longitude) and assigned UVB values using NASA's Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS) dataset. Linear regression was used to explore the relationship between cumulative UVB exposure (measured for age periods 0-6, 7-12, 13-18, 0-12, and 0-18) and age at MS onset. RESULTS: 3226 patients were included in the analysis. Of these, 74% were female, with an overall mean symptom onset age of 33.3 years. At onset, a total of 2944 (91%) had a relapsing-remitting disease course, 254 (8%) had primary progressive and the disease course for 28 (1%) was unknown. No significant associations between cumulative early life ambient UVB exposure and age at MS onset were observed. Patient sex, MS phenotype, and immigration to Canada after age 18 were significantly associated with age of onset (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Early life ambient UVB, as measured by satellite imagery, was not significantly associated with the age at MS onset.

Depression, anxiety and stress severities in multiple sclerosis patients using injectable versus oral treatments.

AIM: Studies on multiple sclerosis in Saudi Arabia remain scant, particularly studies on the psychological aspects. This study measures severities of depression, anxiety and stress, and compares them to the used disease-modifying treatment. MATERIALS & METHODS: Cross-sectional study using a phone questionnaire targeting 452 Saudi patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis following in King Khalid University Hospital, King Fahad Medical City or Security Forces Hospital. RESULTS: From 235 patients, 149 used interferons, 58 used fingolimod and 28 used natalizumab. Depression scores were similar among all demographic and drug groups. Interferons versus fingolimod anxiety scores were significantly different (p = 0.035). Stress scores were within normal limits. CONCLUSION: Mild anxiety was higher among interferon users, which could be due to injection anxiety reasons.

Time-Domain and Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer in MS Patients and Healthy Controls.

Objective. The aim of this study was to compare retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) between spectral-domain (SD-) and time-domain optical coherence tomography (TD-OCT) in MS patients and healthy controls (HC). Furthermore, RNFLT between MS eyes with and without optic neuritis (ON) and HC should be explored. Finally, the relationship between RNFLT, disease duration, EDSS, and disease modifying therapy (DMT) should be established. Design. Prospective, cross-sectional study. Participants. 28 MS patients and 35 HC. Methods. Both groups underwent TD- and SD-OCT measurements. RFNLT was correlated between the two machines and between MS eyes with and without ON and HC. Furthermore, RNFLT was correlated to disease duration, EDSS and DMT. Results. A strong correlation (Pearson's r = 0.921, P < 0.001), but a statistically significant difference of 2 µm (P < 0.001), was found between the two devices. RNFLT was significantly different between MS eyes with history of ON (mean RFNLT (SD) 72.21 µm (15.83 µm)), MS eyes without history of ON 93.03 µm (14.25 µm), and HC 99.07 µm (7.23 µm) (P < 0.001). Conclusions. The measurements between different generation of OCT machines are not interchangeable, which should be taken into account if comparing results between different machines and switching OCT machine in longitudinal studies.