Multiple sclerosis patients have higher risk of relapse after dropping drug

Multiple sclerosis patients are more likely to relapse if they discontinue therapy after learning a positive JCV antibody result, new studies have learnt.

The research found that patients who discontinued natalizumab (Tysabri) after learning their antibody result are more likely to relapse. The testing took place on a small group in a single-centre study, but could be the foundations of larger, more detailed tests.

Denise Cheng of Winthrop Comprehensive MS Care Centre in Mineola, US, conducted the study, which looked into the effects of dropping Tysabri in patients. Of the nine patients tested, they found that five relapsed within six months.

PML is caused by reactivation of latent JC virus infection and has been seen in about 0.1 per cent of MS patients receiving natalizumab. Even though the risk is very low, patients are now routinely tested for JCV antibodies before starting on natalizumab, with the risks and potential benefits explained to those with positive results, Cheng explained.

But patients who are already taking the drug are now being offered the test, and their decision-making and clinical outcomes are a matter of significant interest to neurologists.

Posted by Ben Evans