Evolución clínica en neuromielitis óptica comparando el manejo con azatioprina o rituximab / Clinical evolution in neuromyelitis optica when comparing management with azathioprine and rituximab

RESUMEN INTRODUCCIÓN: El espectro de trastornos de neuromielitis óptica (NMOSD) es un grupo de enfermedades desmielinizantes, inflamatorias y autoinmunes, caracterizadas por episodios recurrentes de neuritis óptica y mielitis transversa longitudinal extensa, entre otras manifestaciones clínicas. Su tratamiento crónico se basa en el uso de terapias inmunosupresoras como azatioprina (AZA), micofenolato mofetilo (MFM) o rituximab (RTX). El objetivo del presente estudio es realizar un análisis comparativo de la respuesta al tratamiento con AZA o RTX. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio observacional, analítico, retrospectivo, en el cual se incluyeron inicialmente 69 pacientes con diagnóstico confirmado de NMOSD. Tras aplicar los criterios de inclusión y exclusión 59 pacientes fueron incluidos en el análisis final. RESULTADOS: En el grupo de RTX se evidenció una mejoría importante en el estado funcional en comparación con el grupo de AZA, en el que se vio un empeoramiento de este al año de seguimiento. El perfil de seguridad fue similar entre ambos grupos, con una adherencia significativamente superior en el grupo de RTX. DISCUSIÓN: Los hallazgos del presente estudio respecto a las ventajas del uso de RTX sobre AZA se encuentran en concordancia con resultados de estudios previos reportados en la literatura. CONCLUSIONES: Los resultados respaldan el uso de RTX sobre AZA como terapia de mantenimiento para pacientes con NMOSD, al estar asociado principalmente con una mejoría notable en la funcionalidad de los pacientes, al igual que una mayor adherencia al tratamiento.

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSD) is a group of inflammatory, autoimmune, and demyelinating disorders. Its hallmark behavior is characterized by recurrent episodes of optic neuritis and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis, among other clinical manifestations. Chronic therapy is based primarily in immunosuppressive therapies such as azathioprine (AZA), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), or rituximab (RTX). The goal of this study is to perform a comparative analysis of response rates to chronic treatment with either AZA or RTX. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective observational analytic study was designed with an initial cohort of 69 patients with a diagnosis of NMOSD. After application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria a total of 59 patients were finally included in the analysis. RESULTS: The RTX group had an improved functional status when compared to the AZA group; in the latter this feature worsened after a one-year follow-up. There was also a comparable safety profile between the two groups with a significantly greater adherence to RTX regimes. DISCUSSION: The findings of the current study as to the benefits of RTX in comparison to AZA are similar to the results of previous studies. CONCLUSION: These results favor the use of RTX as maintenance treatment of NMOSD, because of its greater benefit mainly in the improvement in functional status of patients, as well as a greater adherence to treatment.

Analysis of the clinical characteristics and misdiagnosis of area postrema syndrome manifesting as intractable nausea, vomiting, and hiccups in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders / 中华内科杂志

Objective: To investigate the misdiagnosis of area postrema syndrome (APS) manifesting as intractable nausea, vomiting and hiccups in neuromyelitis optic spectrum disease (NMOSD) and reduce the risk of misdiagnosis. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from NMOSD patients attending the Department of Neurology at the First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital between January 2019 and July 2021. SPSS25.0 was then used to analyze the manifestations, misdiagnosis, and mistreatment of APS. Results: A total of 207 patients with NMOSD were included, including 21 males and 186 females. The mean age of onset was 39±15 years (range: 5-72 years). The proportion of patients who were positive for serum aquaporin 4 antibody was 82.6% (171/207). In total, 35.7% (74/207) of the NMOSD patients experienced APS during the disease course; of these patients, 70.3% (52/74) had APS as the first symptom and 29.7% (22/74) had APS as a secondary symptom. The misdiagnosis rates for these conditions were 90.4% (47/52) and 50.0% (11/22), respectively. As the first symptom, 19.2% (10/52) of patients during APS presented only with intractable nausea, vomiting and hiccups; 80.8% (42/52) of patients experienced other neurological symptoms. The Departments of Gastroenterology and General Medicine were the departments that most frequently made the first diagnosis of APS, accounting for 54.1% and 17.6% of patients, respectively. The most common misdiagnoses related to diseases of the digestive system and the median duration of misdiagnosis was 37 days. Conclusions: APS is a common symptom of NMOSD and is associated with a high rate of misdiagnosis. Other concomitant symptoms often occur with APS. Gaining an increased awareness of this disease/syndrome, obtaining a detailed patient history, and performing physical examinations are essential if we are to reduce and avoid misdiagnosis.

Pregnancy-associated neuromyelitis optical spectrum disorder combined with primary Sjögren's syndrome: A critical illness case report / 北京大学学报(医学版)

Central nervous system involvement in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is less common and usually presents as white matter lesions, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), or transverse myelitis. NMOSD is an immune-mediated inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system with a high rate of relapse and significant disability. Studies have shown that patients with pSS combined with NMOSD have more severe symptoms and poorer prognosis. Here, we present a case of critical illness in pregnancy-associated NMOSD combined with Sjögren's syndrome. The patient was a 30-year-old pregnant woman with a history of Sjögren's syndrome who was diagnosed with NMOSD. She received combination therapy with steroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and hydroxychloroquine during pregnancy, resulting in partial resolution of numbness below the waist. However, due to irregular medication adherence outside the hospital setting, she developed weakness in her right lower limb accompanied by inability to move it, while her left lower limb still had some mobility but occasional numbness along with urinary and fecal incontinence. Ten days later, she was admitted to the emergency department where an emergency cesarean section was performed to deliver a healthy baby boy. However, her condition worsened postpartum as she developed high fever accompanied by bilateral lower limb paralysis and weakness along with loss of voluntary control over urination and defecation. The patient underwent ano-ther course of treatment consisting of steroids and IVIG; however there was limited improvement in symptoms observed after this intervention. Following administration of rituximab for the first time, the patient developed urinary tract infection which was successfully managed before continuing regular infusions. In later stages the patient could walk slightly with a limp and regained control over urination and defecation, allowing her to resume normal activities. This case suggests that combination therapy with steroids, IVIG, and hydroxychloroquine should be considered for the patients with pregnancy-associated NMOSD combined with Sjögren's syndrome. Rituximab can significantly improve symptoms such as postpartum paralysis in patients with NMOSD, however, there may be a risk of infection associated with its use.

The analysis of features of first-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease within 1 year after delivery / 中华预防医学杂志

To explore the clinical features and influencing factors of first-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease (NMOSD) within 1 year after delivery. A single center, observational cohort study was used to retrospectively analyze 12 patients with first-onset NMOSD within 1 year after delivery hospitalized in the Department of Neurology of Beijing Tong Ren Hospital from June 2015 to June 2018(short as the postpartum onset group). 12 patients with first-onset NMOSD without 1 year after delivery hospitalized in our department during the same period were selected (short as the control group). The results showed the next recurrence interval in the postpartum onset group was longer than the control group [the postpartum onset group: (6.1±3.5) years, the control group: (1.6±1.5) years, t=3.622,P=0.005], the times of relapses were less than the control group [the postpartum onset group: (1.8±1.4) times, the control group:4.0 (3.0, 7.3) times, Z=-3.122,P=0.002], and expanded disability status scale (EDSS) of the last follow-up was lower than the control group [the postpartum onset group: 3.0(2.3, 3.9), the control group: 4.5(4.0, 6.0), Z=-3.358,P=0.001] with statistically significant differences. The recurrence rates of 1 year, 3 years and 5 years in the postpartum onset group (0%, 16.7%, 33.3%) were lower than control group (58.3%, 83.3%, 91.7%) with statistically significant differences (χ2=8.000,P=0.014;χ2=10.667,P=0.003; χ2=8.711,P=0.009). After the second delivery, the recurrence rate in postpartum onset group was 100% (n=3) and in control group was 50%(n=2), but the difference was not statistically significant (χ2=2.100,P=0.429). In the postpartum onset group, combination of autoimmune disease was consistent with positive in serum AQP-4 antibody moderately (Kappa=0.5, P=0.046). Positive in other autoimmune antibodies were consistent with positive in serum AQP-4 antibody moderately (Kappa=0.5, P=0.046). Combination of autoimmune disease were consistent with positive in serum other autoimmune antibodies well (Kappa=0.667, P=0.021). In conclusion, the first-onset NMOSD within 1 year after delivery have longer next recurrence interval, less times of relapses, lower relapse rate, better long-term prognosis of central nervous system, and they have trend to suffering from recurrent after the second delivery. For the females, combined with autoimmune disease or autoimmune antibody, who are ready for pregnancy, could detect serum AQP-4; if serum AQP-4 positive, they are recommended to prevent the occurrence of NMOSD after delivery.

The analysis of features of first-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease within 1 year after delivery / 中华预防医学杂志

To explore the clinical features and influencing factors of first-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease (NMOSD) within 1 year after delivery. A single center, observational cohort study was used to retrospectively analyze 12 patients with first-onset NMOSD within 1 year after delivery hospitalized in the Department of Neurology of Beijing Tong Ren Hospital from June 2015 to June 2018(short as the postpartum onset group). 12 patients with first-onset NMOSD without 1 year after delivery hospitalized in our department during the same period were selected (short as the control group). The results showed the next recurrence interval in the postpartum onset group was longer than the control group [the postpartum onset group: (6.1±3.5) years, the control group: (1.6±1.5) years, t=3.622,P=0.005], the times of relapses were less than the control group [the postpartum onset group: (1.8±1.4) times, the control group:4.0 (3.0, 7.3) times, Z=-3.122,P=0.002], and expanded disability status scale (EDSS) of the last follow-up was lower than the control group [the postpartum onset group: 3.0(2.3, 3.9), the control group: 4.5(4.0, 6.0), Z=-3.358,P=0.001] with statistically significant differences. The recurrence rates of 1 year, 3 years and 5 years in the postpartum onset group (0%, 16.7%, 33.3%) were lower than control group (58.3%, 83.3%, 91.7%) with statistically significant differences (χ2=8.000,P=0.014;χ2=10.667,P=0.003; χ2=8.711,P=0.009). After the second delivery, the recurrence rate in postpartum onset group was 100% (n=3) and in control group was 50%(n=2), but the difference was not statistically significant (χ2=2.100,P=0.429). In the postpartum onset group, combination of autoimmune disease was consistent with positive in serum AQP-4 antibody moderately (Kappa=0.5, P=0.046). Positive in other autoimmune antibodies were consistent with positive in serum AQP-4 antibody moderately (Kappa=0.5, P=0.046). Combination of autoimmune disease were consistent with positive in serum other autoimmune antibodies well (Kappa=0.667, P=0.021). In conclusion, the first-onset NMOSD within 1 year after delivery have longer next recurrence interval, less times of relapses, lower relapse rate, better long-term prognosis of central nervous system, and they have trend to suffering from recurrent after the second delivery. For the females, combined with autoimmune disease or autoimmune antibody, who are ready for pregnancy, could detect serum AQP-4; if serum AQP-4 positive, they are recommended to prevent the occurrence of NMOSD after delivery.

Síntomas gastrointestinales como manifestación de neuromielitis óptica: un reporte de caso / Gastrointestinal symptoms as a manifestation of Neuromyelitis Optica: A Case Report / Sintomas gastrointestinais como manifestação de neuromielite óptica: um reporte de caso

Se presenta el caso de una mujer en la quinta década de la vida que ingresa al servicio de urgencias con manifestaciones gastrointestinales consistentes en vómito e hipo. Después de múltiples estudios e intervenciones por especialistas, se piensa en el origen central de los síntomas. Se realiza una resonancia magnética nuclear (RMN) cerebral que permite el enfoque del caso y posterior confirmación del diagnóstico de una enfermedad dentro del espectro de la neuromielitis óptica, positiva para anticuerpos anti-acuaporinas-4. El tratamiento con esteroide y anticuerpo monoclonal (Rituximab) llevan a un control adecuado de la enfermedad.

We present a case report of a woman in her 50s admitted to the emergency room with gastrointestinal manifestations consisting of vomiting and hiccups. After a series of studies and interventions by specialists, a brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is performed in order to find the central origin of the symptoms. This allows the approach of the case and subsequent confirmation of the diagnosis of Neuromyelitis optica, positive for anti-acuaporin-4 antibodies. Finally, it seems that treatment with steroids and monoclonal antibodies leads to proper control of the disease.

Se apresenta o caso de uma mulher na quinta década de vida que ingressa ao serviço de urgências com manifestações gastrointestinais consistentes em vômito e soluço. Depois de múltiplos estudos e intervenções por especialistas, se pensa na origemcentral dos sintomas. Se realiza uma ressonância magnética nuclear (RMN) cerebral que permite o enfoque do caso e posterior confirmação do diagnóstico de uma doença dentro do espectro da neuromielite óptica, positiva para anticorpos anti-acuaporinas-4. O tratamento com esteroide e anticorpo monoclonal (Rituximab) levam a um controle adequado da doença.

Perfil clínico y epidemiológico de los pacientes con diagnóstico de neuromielitis óptica / Clinical and epidemiological profile of patients with neuromyelitis optica diagnosis

INTRODUCCIÓN. El trastorno del espectro de neuromielitis óptica, enfermedad inflamatoria, desmielinizante, afecta al sistema nervioso central, frecuente en poblaciones no caucásicas como la ecuatoriana. El retraso en su diagnóstico y tratamiento provoca discapacidad que se puede prevenir. OBJETIVO. Determinar el perfil clínico y epidemiológico de los pacientes con diagnóstico de trastorno del espectro de neuromielitis óptica. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS. Estudio descriptivo transversal. Población de 45 Historias Clínicas y una muestra de 41 de pacientes con diagnóstico de trastorno del espectro de neuromielitis óptica atendidos en la Unidad de Neurología del Hospital de Especialida-des Carlos Andrade Marín, período enero 2005 a diciembre 2019. Se realizó análisis univarial. Se aplicó el programa estadístico International Business Machines Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, versión 25. RESULTADOS. El 76,0% (31; 41) fueron mujeres. Datos promedios: edad 48,9 años; diagnóstico definitivo demoró 4,12 años, desde el inicio de los síntomas; tiempo de diagnóstico fue 3,17 años; 3,7 brotes en total; el 87,8% (36; 41) con un fenotipo recurrente. La media de duración de la enfermedad fue de 6,8 años. En el 70,7% (29; 41), se identificaron anticuerpos anti-AQP4 en suero mediante inmunofluorescencia directa, el 51,2% requirieron para la marcha apoyo uni o bilateral. El 43,9% (18; 41) debutó con neuritis óptica; el 31,7% (13; 41) presentaron mielitis como primer síntoma y el 24,4% (10; 41) la combinación de neuritis óptica y mielitis fueron los síntomas iniciales. CONCLUSIÓN. Se determinó el perfil clínico y epi-demiológico de los pacientes con diagnóstico de trastorno del espectro de neuromielitis óptica. Existió demora en el diagnóstico definitivo de los pacientes desde el inicio de los síntomas, lo que se tradujo en un aumento de la discapacidad.

INTRODUCTION. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, an inflammatory, demyelinating disease, affects the central nervous system, common in non-Caucasian popu-lations such as Ecuadorians. The delay in its diagnosis and treatment causes disabi-lity that can be prevented. OBJECTIVE. To determine the clinical and epidemiological profile of patients diagnosed with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Cross-sectional descriptive study. Population of 45 Medical Records and a sample of 41 patients with a diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disor-der seen at the Neurology Unit of the Carlos Andrade Marín Specialties Hospital, period from January 2005 to December 2019. Univariate analysis was performed. The statistical program International Business Machines Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 25 was used. RESULTS. 76,0% (31; 41) were women. Average data: age 48,9 years; definitive diagnosis took 4,12 years from the onset of symptoms; time to diagnosis was 3,17 years; 3,7 outbreaks in total; 87,8% (36; 41) with a recurrent phenotype. The average disease duration was 6,8 years. In 70,7% (29; 41), anti-AQP4 antibodies were identified in serum by direct immunofluorescence, 51,2% required uni- or bilateral su-pport for walking. Optic neuritis started in 43,9% (18; 41); 31,7% (13; 41) had myelitis as the first symptom and 24,4% (10; 41) the combination of optic neuritis and myelitis were the initial symptoms. CONCLUSION. The clinical and epidemiological profile of patients diagnosed with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder was determined. There was delay in the conclusive diagnosis of patients from the beginning of symptoms, which resulted in increased disability.

Long-term safety of azathioprine for treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders / Segurança a longo prazo da azatioprina no tratamento dos transtornos do espectro da neuromielite óptica

ABSTRACT Background: Azathioprine is a common first-line therapy for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether long-term treatment (>10 years) with azathioprine is safe in NMOSD. Methods: We conducted a retrospective medical record review of all patients at the School of Medicine of the University of São Paulo (São Paulo, Brazil) who fulfilled the 2015 international consensus diagnostic criteria for NMOSD and were treated with azathioprine for at least 10 years. Results: Out of 375 patients assessed for eligibility, 19 were included in this analysis. These patients' median age was 44 years (range=28-61); they were mostly female (17/19) and AQP4-IgG seropositive (18/19). The median disease duration was 15 years (range=10-39) and most patients presented a relapsing clinical course (84.2%). The median duration of treatment was 11.9 years (range=10.0-23.8). The median annualized relapse rates (ARR) pre- and post-treatment with azathioprine were 1 (range=0.1-2) and 0.1 (range=0-0.35); p=0.09. Three patients (15.7%) had records of adverse events during the follow-up, which consisted of chronic B12 vitamin deficiency, pulmonary tuberculosis and breast cancer. Conclusion: Azathioprine may be considered a safe agent for long-term treatment (>10 years) of NMOSD, but continuous vigilance for infections and malignancies is required.

RESUMO Introdução: A azatioprina é um tratamento comum de primeira linha para os transtornos do espectro neuromielite óptica (NMOSD). Objetivo: Este estudo visou determinar a segurança do tratamento a longo prazo (>10 anos) da NMOSD com a azatioprina. Métodos: Foi realizada revisão retrospectiva de todos os prontuários de pacientes que preenchiam critérios de NMOSD de acordo com o "International Consensus Diagnostic Criteria for NMOSD" de 2015 em uso de azatioprina por ao menos 10 anos matriculados no ambulatório de Doenças Desmielinizantes do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. Resultados: De 375 pacientes avaliados, 19 preencheram critérios de inclusão para análise. A mediana de idade foi de 44 anos (variância=28-61); os pacientes eram predominantemente do sexo feminino (17/19) e AQP4-IgG soropositivos (18/19). A mediana do tempo de duração de doença foi 11,9 anos (variância=10,0-23,8), a mediana da taxa anualizada de surtos pré e pós-tratamento foi de 1 (variância=0,1-2) e 0,1 (variância=0-0,35), p=0,09. Três pacientes (15,7%) apresentaram registro de eventos adversos durante o seguimento: deficiência crônica de vitamina B12, tuberculose pulmonar e câncer de mama. Conclusão: A azatioprina provavelmente pode ser considerada segura para o tratamento a longo prazo (>10 anos) da NMOSD, porém vigilância contínua de neoplasias e infecções é necessária.

Review of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder with Pain-Depression Comorbidity / 中国医学科学杂志(英文版)

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system predominantly targeting optic nerves and the spinal cord. The prevalence of the disease is much higher in Asia than in other parts of the world. Pain can be detected in more than 80% of NMOSD patients, with evoked pain mostly being caused by painful tonic muscle spasms and neuropathic pain as the most characteristic types. Depression is often comorbid with pain, and their comorbidity can severely influence quality of life. In recent years, studies have found considerable overlaps between the mechanisms of pain and depression; however, their association remains unclear. This article reviews the epidemiology, mechanism, evaluation and treatment of pain-depression comorbidity in NMOSD patients.

Clinical Features of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders with Connective Tissue Diseases / 中国医学科学院学报

Objective To investigate the clinical features of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders(NMOSD)with connective tissue diseases(CTD). Methods Clinical data of 16 NMOSD-CTD patients and 54 NMOSD patients admitted to the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University from January 2015 to February 2020 were collected.The initial symptom,intracranial lesion,spinal cord lesion,laboratory examination and treatment response were compared between the two groups. Results The incidence of Sjögren's syndrome(SS)was the highest(10/16,62.5%)in NMOSD-CTD group.The NMOSD-CTD group had significantly higher positive rate of aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G(AQP4-IgG)in serum or cerebrospinal fluid(100% vs. 70.2%,P=0.009),higher positive rates of serum anti-nuclear antibodies,anti Sjögren's syndrome A antibodies and anti-Ro52 autoantibodies(P0.05).Conclusions NMOSD is often complicated with CTD,and SS is the most common one.The positive rate of serum or cerebrospinal AQP4-IgG and the seropositivity of several other autoantibodies in NMOSD-CTD patients were higher than those in NMOSD patients.Neurological impairment in NMOSD-CTD patients were severer,which should arouse attention of clinicians.

Neuromielitis óptica: reporte de un caso clínico / Optic neuromyelitis: a clinical case report

La neuromielitis óptica (NMO) y los trastornos del espectro de neuromielitis óptica (NMOSD) son trastornos poco frecuentes, mediados por anticuerpos del sistema nervioso central (SNC) con predilección por la médula espinal y los nervios ópticos. Existe una fuerte predilección femenina. En el caso de la forma recurrente más común de la enfermedad, que representa del 80% al 90% de los casos, las mujeres están sobrerrepresentadas con una proporción de 5 a 10: 1.6. La edad media de inicio es de 39,7 años. Objetivo: Determinar la causa de neuromielitis óptica en paciente femenina de 24 años de edad. Materiales y métodos: Es una investigación enmarcada en el paradigma positivista, con enfoque cuantitativo. Con un estudio de campo-descriptivo, no experimental, en la modalidad de caso clínico único. El método utilizado fue la historia clínica y consentimiento informado. Resultado: Se presenta el caso de una paciente de sexo femenino de 24 años de edad, sin antecedentes patológicos personales. Presentó pérdida progresiva de la visión de 2 meses de evolución, que se acompañaba de dolor en región cervical de moderada intensidad y en 24 horas presentó parestesia en brazo derecho, afasia, cuadro neurológico que evolucionó hasta presentar cuadriparesia, insuficiencia respiratoria aguda. Conclusión: En IRM de columna cervical se evidencia cambio anormal de la señal medular cervical evidente en secuencias T2 flair lesión hiperintensa longitudinalmente extensa que abarca más de 3 cuerpos vertebrales. Fue tratada con corticoides y plasmaféresis(AU)

Neuromielitis optic (NMO) and neuromielitis optic spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are rare disorders mediated by antibodies of the central nervous system (CNS) with a predilection for the spinal cord and optic nerves. There is a strong female predilection. In the case of the most common recurrent form of the disease, which accounts for 80% to 90% most of the cases are women with a ratio of five to 10: 1.6. The mean age of onset is 39.7 years. Objective: To determine the cause of neuromielitis optica in a 24-year-old female patient. Materials and methods: It is an investigation framed in the positivist paradigm, with a quantitative approach. With a descriptive field study, not experimental, in the single clinical case modality. The method used was the medical history and informed consent. Result: The case of a 24-year-old female patient with no presented personal pathological history. She presented progressive loss of vision of 2 months of evolution, accompanied by pain in the cervical region of moderate intensity and within 24 hours, she presented paresthesia in the right arm, aphasia, a neurological picture that evolved until presenting cuadriparesia, acute respiratory failure. Conclusion: An MRI of the cervical spine shows an abnormal change in the cervical spinal signal evident in T2 sequences flair a longitudinally extensive hiperintensa lesion that encompasses more than 3 vertebral bodies. Her treatment was corticosteroids and plasmapheresis(AU)

Management of central nervous system demyelinating diseases during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: a practical approach / Manejo de doenças desmielinizantes do sistema nervoso central na pandemia de doença do coronavírus 2019: uma abordagem prática

ABSTRACT Background: The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic poses a potential threat to patients with autoimmune disorders, including multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Such patients are usually treated with immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive agents, which may tamper with the organism's normal response to infections. Currently, no consensus has been reached on how to manage MS and NMOSD patients during the pandemic. Objective: To discuss strategies to manage those patients. Methods: We focus on how to 1) reduce COVID-19 infection risk, such as social distancing, telemedicine, and wider interval between laboratory testing/imaging; 2) manage relapses, such as avoiding treatment of mild relapse and using oral steroids; 3) manage disease-modifying therapies, such as preference for drugs associated with lower infection risk (interferons, glatiramer, teriflunomide, and natalizumab) and extended-interval dosing of natalizumab, when safe; 4) individualize the chosen MS induction-therapy (anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, alemtuzumab, and cladribine); 5) manage NMOSD preventive therapies, including initial therapy selection and current treatment maintenance; 6) manage MS/NMOSD patients infected with COVID-19. Conclusions: In the future, real-world case series of MS/NMOSD patients infected with COVID-19 will help us define the best management strategies. For the time being, we rely on expert experience and guidance.

RESUMO Introdução: A mais recente pandemia causada pelo coronavírus SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19, do inglês coronavirus disease 2019) representa uma ameaça potencial para pacientes com doenças autoimunes, incluindo esclerose múltipla (EM) e transtorno do espectro de neuromielite óptica (NMOSD, do inglês neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders). Esses pacientes são geralmente tratados com medicamentos imunomoduladores ou imunossupressores que podem alterar a resposta normal do organismo a infecções. Até o momento, não há consenso sobre como o manejo dos pacientes com EM e NMOSD deve ser realizado durante a pandemia. Objetivo: Discutir estratégias para manejar esses pacientes. Métodos: Focamos em como 1) reduzir o risco de infecção por COVID-19, como distanciamento social, telemedicina e exames laboratoriais e de imagem em intervalos mais amplos; 2) manejo de surtos, incluindo evitar tratamento de surto leve e uso de corticoide oral; 3) gerenciar terapias modificadoras de doença, como a preferência por medicamentos associados a menor risco de infecção (interferons, glatirâmer, teriflunomida e natalizumabe) e infusão em intervalo estendido de natalizumabe, quando seguro; 4) individualizar a escolha da terapia de indução para EM (anticorpos monoclonais anti-CD20, alentuzumabe e cladribina); 5) manejar terapias preventivas de NMOSD, incluindo seleção inicial de terapia e manutenção do tratamento atual; 6) manejar pacientes com EM/NMOSD que foram infectados por COVID-19. Conclusão: No futuro, séries de casos de pacientes com MS/NMOSD infectados com COVID-19 nos ajudará a definir as melhores estratégias de manejo. Por enquanto, contamos com a experiência e orientação especializadas.

Mielitis longitudinal extensa de presentación muy tardía: Una entidad del espectro de la neuromielitis óptica / Extensive longitudinal myelitis of very late presentation. An entity of the spectrum of optic neuromyelitis

Las enfermedades del espectro neuromielitis óptica son trastornos inflamatorios del sistema nervioso central caracterizados por una grave desmielinización y daño axonal inmunomediado que afecta principalmente a los nervios ópticos y médula espinal. Suelen presentars e en edades tempranas, aunque existen algunas comunicaciones en la literatura de pacientes con presentaciones tardías. Presentamos el caso de una mujer de 78 años que consultó por un cuadro de paraparesia grave, trastornos sensitivos y retención urinaria. Se realizó una resonancia magnética de columna cervicodorsal que evidenció una lesión medular longitudinal extensa. Se descartaron otras causas secundarias, basadas en la clínica y en resultados de laboratorio. El dosaje de anticuerpos anti-acuaporina 4 resultó positivo. Se indicó tratamiento con glucocorticoides a altas dosis y plasmaféresis, y mantenimiento con rituximab, obteniendo escasa respuesta clínica. En pacientes con lesiones medulares extensas se deben contemplar múltiples diagnósticos diferenciales según la presentación clínica, hallazgos mediante estudios por imágenes y epidemiología. Asimismo, debe incluir la búsqueda de anticuerpos anti-acuaporina 4 y contra la glicoproteína de la mielina del oligodendrocito, ya que el pronóstico funcional de estos pacientes suele ser desfavorable debido al gran componente destructivo de las lesiones. En consecuencia, el tratamiento temprano es fundamental a fin de limitar el daño agudo y prevenir futuras recaídas, lo cual es especialmente importante en presentaciones tardías de esta entidad debido a la escasa reserva funcional y baja capacidad de remielinización.

Optic neuromyelitis spectrum diseases are inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system characterized by severe demyelination and immunomediated axonal damage that mainly affects the optic nerves and spinal cord. They usually appear at an early age, although there are some reports in the literature of patients with late presentations. We present the case of a 78-year-old woman who consulted for severe paraparesis, sensory disorders, and urinary retention. An MRI of the cervicodorsal spine was performed, showing extensive longitudinal spinal injury. Secondary causes based on clinical observations and laboratory studies were ruled out. The dosage of anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies was positive. Acute treatment with high-dose glucocorticoids and plasmapheresis was indicated, and maintenance with rituximab, obtaining little clinical response. In patients with extensive spinal injuries, multiple differential diagnoses should be considered according to the clinical presentation, findings through imaging studies and epidemiology. Likewise, it should include the search for anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies and against the oligodendrocyte myelin glycoprotein, since the functional prognosis of these patients is usually unfavourable due to the large destructive component of the lesions. Consequently, early treatment is essential in order to limit acute damage and prevent future relapses, which is especially important in late presentations of this entity due to the low functional reserve and low remyelination capacity.

Bases Fisiopatológicas Del Espectro De Neuromielitis Óptica: ¿Qué Sabemos? / Pathophysiological Basis Of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders: What do we know?

Resumen El espectro de Neuromielitis óptica (NMOSD por su sigla en inglés) corresponde a un conjunto de manifestaciones clínicas derivadas de un proceso inflamatorio y desmielinizante del sistema nervioso central, que causa lesiones primariamente en la médula espinal y nervios ópticos, pero también en otras regiones como tronco encefálico, diencéfalo o áreas cerebrales específicas. La mayoría de los pacientes con NMOSD son seropositivos para autoanticuerpos contra AQP4, el principal canal de agua de los astrocitos, sin embargo, existe un porcentaje no despreciable de pacientes, cercano al 25%, quienes son seronegativos para estos anticuerpos y en quienes la presencia de anticuerpos dirigidos contra mielina (anti-MOG) podrían tener un rol patogénico, el cual a la fecha no ha sido bien dilucidado. La evidencia científica actual, ha permitido reconocer que AQP4-IgG es patogénico en NMOSD, probablemente por un mecanismo que involucra citotoxicidad celular dependiente de la activación del complemento, generando infiltración leucocitaria, liberación de citokinas y disrupción de la barrera hemato-encefálica, lo cual lleva a muerte de oligodendrocitos, pérdida de mielina y muerte neuronal. Este artículo presenta una revisión basada en la evidencia, la cual enfatiza los principales aspectos de la patogénesis de NMOSD.

Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSD) is a set of clinical manifestations derived from an inflammatory and demyelinating process of the central nervous system that causes lesions primarily in spinal cord and optic nerves but also in other regions such as brainstem, diencephalon or specific brain areas. Most patients with NMOSD are seropositive for autoantibodies against AQP4, the major water channel of astrocytes, however there is a non-negligible percentage of patients, close to 25%, who are seronegative for these antibodies and in whom the presence of antibodies directed against myelin (anti-MOG) could have a pathogenic role that to date has not been well elucidated. Current scientific evidence has allowed recognize that AQP4-IgG is pathogenic in NMOSD, probably by a mechanism involving complement dependent cellular cytotoxicity, causing leucocyte infiltration, cytokine release and blood-brain barrier disruption, which leads to oligodendrocyte death, myelin loss and neuron death. This article presents an evidence-based review, which emphasizes the main aspects in NMOSD pathogenesis.

A concise historical perspective of the area postrema structure and function / Uma perspectiva histórica concisa da estrutura e função da área postrema

ABSTRACT First described by Retzius at the end of the 19th century, the structure in the posterior medulla oblongata, then named area postrema, underwent an intense investigation into its function in the decades that followed. Findings, mainly in animal studies, have partially elucidated its role as an emetic center in the central nervous system. In the second half of the 20th century, this function was associated with reports of syndromes characterized by uncontrollable nausea and vomiting related to structural damage in the area postrema, mainly in the context of demyelinating diseases. At the beginning of the 21st century, the so-called area postrema syndrome has been consolidated as a diagnostic factor in diseases related to the spectrum of neuromyelitis optica, more than 100 years after its first description.

RESUMO Descrita pela primeira vez por Retzius no final do século XIX, a estrutura na medula oblonga posterior, então nomeada de área postrema, passou por intensa investigação quanto à sua função nas décadas seguintes. Achados sobretudo em estudos com animais elucidaram parcialmente sua função como centro emético no sistema nervoso central. Na segunda metade do século XX, tal função foi associada a relatos de síndromes caracterizadas por náuseas e vômitos incoercíveis relacionadas a lesões estruturais na área postrema, principalmente no contexto das doenças desmielinizantes. Já no início do século XXI, a então chamada síndrome da área postrema se consolida como fator diagnóstico nas doenças relacionadas ao espectro da neuromielite óptica, mais de 100 anos sua primeira descrição.

Neuromielitis óptica / Neuromyelitis optica

La neuromielitis óptica (NMO) es un trastorno autoinmune, inflamatorio y desmielinizante del sistema nervioso central con predilección por los nervios ópticos y médula espinal. En el año 2004 se publicó la asociación de NMO con un anticuerpo contra el canal de agua acuaporina 4 (anti-AQP4), como una enfermedad diferente de la esclerosis múltiple (EM). Actualmente se propone el término trastornos del espectro NMO (NMOSD), debido a que las manifestaciones de la enfermedad pueden ser más extensas, afectando además del nervio óptico y médula espinal, al área postrema del bulbo raquídeo, tronco encefálico, diencéfalo y áreas cerebrales típicas (periependimarias, cuerpo calloso, cápsula interna y sustancia blanca subcortical). NMOSD se aplica también a pacientes que cumplen los criterios de NMO y son negativos para anti-AQP4. Dentro de este último grupo se ha detectado en un 20% la presencia de otro anticuerpo, anti-MOG (Glicoproteína oligodendrocítica de mielina) con un mecanismo fisiopatológico diferente pero con una clínica, en algunos casos, similar, y en general con mejor pronóstico. El tratamiento inmunosupresor en la crisis, así como el tratamiento a largo plazo en los casos que esté indicado, es fundamental para evitar secuelas y recidivas. El diagnóstico correcto de esta entidad es fundamental ya que puede ser agravado con el uso de fármacos útiles en el tratamiento de EM. En esta publicación haremos una revisión de la fisiopatología, clínica y criterios diagnósticos de NMOSD, y discutiremos las distintas opciones terapéuticas.

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune, inflammatory and de myelinat ing disorder of the central nervous system with a predilection for the optic nerves and spinal cord. In 2004 the association of NMO with an antibody against the water channel aquaporin 4 (anti-AQP4) was published as a different pathology from multiple sclerosis (MS). Currently the term NMO spectrum disorders (NMOSD) is proposed, because the manifestations of the disease can be more extensive, affecting in addition to the optic nerve and spinal cord, the area postrema of the dorsal medulla, brainstem, diencephalon and typical brain areas (periependymal, corpus callosum, internal capsule and subcortical white matter). NMOSD is also applied to patients who meet the NMO criteria and are negative for AQP4-IgG. Within the latter group, the presence of another antibody, anti-MOG, has been detected in 20%, with a different physiopathological mechanism, but with a similar clinic and a better prognosis. The immunosuppressive treatment in the attack, as well as the long-term treatment in the cases that are indicated, is fundamental to avoid sequelaes and recurrences. The correct diagnosis of this entity is essential since it can be aggravated with the use of drugs useful in the treatment of MS. In this publication we will review the pathophysiology, clinical and diagnostic criteria of NMOSD, and discuss the different therapeutic options.

Enfermedad de Devic con respuesta favorable a rituximab: reporte de un caso / Devic disease with favorable response to rituximab: report of a case

La enfermedad de Devic, también llamada neuromielitis óptica, es una entidad autoinmune desmielinizante del Sistema Nervioso Central, poco común que compromete los nervios ópticos y la médula espinal, ocasio-nando pérdida de la agudeza visual y afección motora. A continuación, se presenta el caso clínico de una mujer de 25 años, que presenta signos de mielopatía y amaurosis súbitas, cumpliendo criterios para neuromielitis óptica. Se inicia tratamiento con bolos de metilprednisolona sin mejoría, decidiéndose administrar Rituximab con respuesta favorable temprana. El Rituximab pertenece al grupo de anticuerpos monoclonales anti ­ CD20, una opción importante ante la falta de respuesta a la primera línea de tra-tamiento.

Devic's disease, is also called neuromyelitis optica, it is a demyelinating autoimmune entity of the central nervous system, it is uncommon and it compromises the optic nerves and the spinal cord, causing loss of visual acuity and motor impairment. A clinical case of a 25-year-old woman with signs of sudden myelopathy and amaurosis is presented. It is fulfilling crite-ria for neuromyelitis optica. The treatment with methylprednisolone boluses started without any improvement, and Rituximab was applied with an early favorable response. Rituximab belongs to the group of anti-CD20 monoclo-nal antibodies, it was an important option in the absence of response to the first line of treatment.

HLA-alleles class I and II associated with genetic susceptibility to neuromyelitis optica in Brazilian patients / Alelos HLA classes I e II associados à suscetibilidade genética a neuromielite óptica em pacientes brasileiros

ABSTRACT Objective: To study the genetic susceptibility to neuromyelitis optica (NMO) as well as the relationship between HLA genotypes and susceptibility to the disease in the southern Brazilian population. Methods: We analyzed patients with NMO, who met criteria for Wingerchuk's diagnosis of NMO, with detected serum anti-AQP4-IgG antibody. The HLA genotyping was performed by high-resolution techniques (Sanger sequencing) in patients and controls. The HLA genotypes were statistically compared with a paired control population. Results: The HLA genotyping revealed the diversity of the southern Brazilian population whose HLA profile resembled European and Asian populations. Some alleles had statistical correlations with a positive association (increased susceptibility) with NMO, particularly the HLA-DRB1*04:05 and *16:02. Conclusions: In our study, the HLA genotype was different to that previously reported for other Brazilian populations. Although our study had a small cohort, HLA genotypes were associated with increased susceptibility to NMO for HLA-DRB1*04:05 and *16:02. The alleles of HLA class I HLA-A*02:08 and *30:09, HLA-B*08:04 and *35:04 showed an association before the Bonferroni correction.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estudar a suscetibilidade genética a neuromielite óptica (NMO) assim como sua relação com o genótipo HLA na população do sul do Brasil. Métodos: Nós analisamos pacientes com NMO que preenchiam os critérios diagnósticos de Wingerchuk para NMO, com presença do anticorpo anti-AQP4-IgG no soro. O genótipo HLA foi realizado usando técnicas de alta resolução (sequenciamento de Sanger) em pacientes e controles. Genótipos HLA foram estatisticamente comparados com uma população controle pareada. Resultados: Genotipagem HLA revelou a diversidade da população sul brasileira cujo perfil HLA lembra as populações europeia e asiática. Alguns alelos tiveram correlação estatística com associação positiva (suscetibilidade aumentada) com NMO, particularmente o HLA-DRB1*04:05 e *16:02. Conclusões: Em nosso estudo, o genótipo HLA foi diferente do previamente relatado em outras populações brasileiras. Embora o número de pacientes tenha sido pequeno, HLA específicos foram associados com suscetibilidade aumentada a NMO para HLA-DRB1*04:05, *16:02. Os alelos HLA classe I HLA*02:08 e *30:09, HLA-B*08:04 e *35:04 tiveram associação antes da correção de Bonferroni.

Ensayo pictórico: diagnóstico diferencial radiológico en esclerosis múltiple / Pictory essay: radiological differential diagnosis of multiple sclerosis

La esclerosis múltiple (EM) es la enfermedad inflamatorio-desmielinizante del Sistema nervioso central más prevalente en adultos. La resonancia magnética (RM) juega un rol cada vez más importante en el estudio de esta patología, en especial en su diagnóstico precoz, por lo que la diferenciación imagenológica de variantes frecuentes e infrecuentes de EM con otras patologías de sustancia blanca que comprometen encéfalo y médula espinal es esencial. Mediante una revisión pictórica se ilustrarán características típicas en RM del compromiso por EM y de variantes menos habituales de lesión desmielinizante, y se ilustrarán hallazgos característicos de lesiones relacionadas a vasculopatías inflamatorias y no inflamatorias, encefalomielitis diseminada aguda (ADEM), neuromielitis óptica (NMO) y enfermedades vasculares de la médula espinal que pueden simular EM, con énfasis en el diagnóstico diferencial radiológico.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent inflammatory-demyelinating disease of the central nervous system in adult population. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has an increasingly important role, especially in early diagnosis, so the imaging differentiation of frequent and infrequent variants of MS with other white matter diseases of brain and spinal cord is essential. Through a pictorial essay we show typical MR features of MS and more infrequent variants of demyelinating lesions and illustrate characteristic imaging findings of inflammatory and non-inflammatory vasculopathies, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and vascular diseases of spinal cord that may simulate MS, with emphasis on imaging differential diagnosis.

Primary central nervous system lymphoma with intramedullary spinal cord involvement mimicking inflammatory demyelinating disease

BACKGROUND: Spinal cord involvement of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is rare in a young immunocompetent patient and can be misdiagnosed as an inflammatory demyelinating disease (IDD) of the central nervous system.