Clinical evaluation of the current status and efficacy of plasma pheresis therapy for acute phase of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in our facility
2023 Volume 40 Issue 1 Pages 50-53
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2023 Volume 40 Issue 1 Pages 50-53
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the current status and efficacy of plasma pheresis (PP) therapy for the acute phase of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD)
Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the clinical profiles of seven patients with anti–AQP4 antibody–positive NMOSD who underwent either plasma exchange or immunoadsorption plasmapheresis (PP) therapies between 2008 and 2020. Expanded disability status scale (EDSS) was evaluated at the nadir of the attacks and at 1 month after the first treatment.
Results: One patient aged 52 years in whom PP was initiated at 5 days after the onset achieved a 2.0–point reduction in EDSS despite manifesting severe condition (EDSS 8.5). Two patients achieved a 1.0–point reduction in EDSS and were characterized by a relatively young–onset (an average of 48 years of age) and mild conditions (an average EDSS of 2.5), despite the delayed initiation of PP at an average of 20 days after the onset. Four patients refractory to PP therapy had an elderly–onset (an average of 75.3 years of age), severe conditions (an average EDSS of 9.0), and delayed initiation of PP at an average of 24 days after the onset.
Conclusion: PP seemed to have a potential role as a rescue therapy in not only severe cases but also mild cases of subacute phase of NMOSD.
