Posters
Use of natalizumab in Irish cohort of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS)
Katerina Ferencova, Ethna Mitten, Brian Sweeney, Cork University Hospital, Ireland.
Objective:
To study the safety and effectiveness in the cohort of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated with natalizumab.
Background:
Natalizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting VLA-4 integrin. In total 4 patients developed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), caused by JC virus. TOUCH and TYGRIS observational studies collect data regarding the safety of natalizumab.
Methods:
Observational study of 45 patients with MS treated with natalizumab. Clinical information pre natalizumab treatment was obtained from all patients via questionnaire. EDSS (Expanded Disability Status Scale) was performed in month 1, 3, 6, 9, 12 of the treatment. MRI scan of brain and cervical spine with gadolinium was performed within 12-15th month and routine bloods and questionnaire regarding allergic and infusion related reactions, side effects, infections or clinical progression before infusion given.
Results:
The mean number of relapses prior to therapy with natalizumab was 7.67. The mean EDSS at month 1 was 4.2, month 3 was 4.3, month 6 was 4.3, and month 9 was 4.3. 19 patients (42%) have been on natalizumab therapy more than 1 year (mean 14.21 months). From those 68.43 % have been relapse free or stable for one year and 21.05% experienced 1 or maximum 2 relapses in first year. The mean EDSS in month 12 of these 19 patients is 4.9. 5 patients (10%) developed allergic reactions after natalizumab infusion and were withdrawn from this therapy. 2 patients (4%) were withdrawn from treatment and 1 patient became pregnant and was withdrawn and reported to natalizumab pregnancy register.
Conclusions
Natalizumab is an effective drug but the data on safety, interactions and long-term effects are still awaited.