Work

Blood neutrophils, oligoclonal bands and bridging corticosteroids as predictive factors for MOGAD course: Insights from a multicentric Portuguese cohort

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) is a heterogeneous entity with either a monophasic or relapsing course. Well-established predictors of relapsing disease are lacking. OBJECTIVE: Identifying predictors of relapsing MOGAD, particularly at disease onset. METHODS: A multicentre observational retrospective study was conducted to characterise a cohort of Portuguese adult MOGAD patients. Patients were identified from participating centre databases. Clinical and demographic data were collected from medical records. Bivariate analysis was conducted to compare patients with relapsing and monophasic MOGAD. Significant variables were included in a stepwise multiple regression analysis to identify independent predictors of relapse. RESULTS: Eighty-seven MOGAD patients from 8 public hospitals were included. Relapsing MOGAD was found in 35.6% (n = 31). Mean diagnostic delay was 3.2 (±6.2) years and time to relapse was 4.4 (±6.4) years. Multiple logistic regression showed that higher neutrophil count (p < 0.01), presence of oligoclonal bands (p = 0.025) and no bridging corticosteroids (p = 0.038) at first attack were predictive of relapsing MOGAD. CONCLUSION: Neutrophil count and oligoclonal bands at first attack may facilitate early decision-making regarding maintenance immunotherapy. Bridging corticosteroids may also influence the course of MOGAD. Further studies with prospective design are warranted.

Source: Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders

DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105935