Neurology® Podcast

August 2024 Neurology Recall: Topics in Multiple Sclerosis

Aug 2, 2024

Dr. Géraldine Androdias reveals how immune checkpoint inhibitors affect multiple sclerosis, highlighting a low risk of relapse in MS patients undergoing cancer treatments. Dr. Bob Fox dives into the significance of neurofilament light chain as a biomarker for disease progression, stressing the need for more research. Dr. Ellen Iacobaeus discusses the unique clinical traits of late-onset MS, advocating for personalized therapy approaches. Additionally, insights on family planning for MS patients underscore the importance of supportive discussions between patients and healthcare providers.

01:12:43

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Episode guests

Bob Fox

Ellen Iacobaeus

Géraldine Androdias

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Immune checkpoint inhibitors may be used safely in multiple sclerosis patients during cancer treatment without significant exacerbation of symptoms.

Neurofilament light chain levels serve as a biomarker for MS but have limited sensitivity for individual patient monitoring compared to MRI.

Late-onset multiple sclerosis patients require tailored treatment approaches due to their distinct clinical characteristics and more aggressive disease progression.

Deep dives

Impact of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors on Multiple Sclerosis

The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer treatment may pose risks for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). A study tracking 18 patients with pre-existing MS and their experience while using these inhibitors revealed that only a small percentage experienced any relapse or radiological activity. Specifically, most patients did not show exacerbation of their MS symptoms while on treatment, providing reassurance that these cancer therapies can be used more safely in MS patients than previously thought. Given these findings, the research suggests that immune checkpoint inhibitors should not be contraindicated for patients with MS, as the benefits in cancer prognosis can outweigh the potential risks.

Intro

2min

Navigating MS and Cancer Treatments

12min

Understanding Neurofilament Light Chain in MS

17min

Insights into Late-Onset Multiple Sclerosis

21min

Pregnancy Decisions in Multiple Sclerosis

15min

Postpartum Considerations in Neurology: Treatment and Support for New Mothers

1min

Breastfeeding and Its Impact on Mothers with MS

2min

Collaborative Care and Patient Guidance in Multiple Sclerosis Management

3min

The August 2024 recall showcases four previously posted episodes on the topic of Multiple Sclerosis. In the first episode, Dr. Géraldine Androdias discusses the impact of immune checkpoint inhibitors on multiple sclerosis. The episode leads into Dr. Bob Fox discussing the relationship between sNfL levels and radiologic activity in multiple sclerosis. In the third episode, Dr. Ellen Iacobaeus discusses the clinical characteristics of late-onset multiple sclerosis. The last episode leads into a conversation with Dr. Riley Bove discussing navigating family planning and pregnancy in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Article Links:

Impact of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors on the Course of Multiple Sclerosis

Temporal Relationship Between Serum Neurofilament Light Chain and Radiologic Disease Activity in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Clinical Characteristics and Long-Term Outcomes of Late-Onset Multiple Sclerosis: A Swedish Nationwide Study

Multiple Sclerosis and Family Planning: A Survey Study of the Patient Experience

Podcast Links:

Impact of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

sNfL and Radiologic Disease Activity in Patients With MS

Clinical Characteristics and Long-Term Outcomes of Late-Onset MS

Multiple Sclerosis and Family Planning

Disclosures can be found at Neurology.org.