[Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies in clinical neurology]

Recombinant monoclonal antibodies break new ground in the treatment of immune-mediated nerve and muscle disorders but also of neurodegenerative diseases, in the field of neuro-oncology and in pain therapy, as they allow molecular targeting of defined cell populations or key pathophysiological molecules. However, safety risks might accompany a high efficacy. Basic understanding of this increasingly important class of agents and a steady update of knowledge, in particular on safety aspects, are therefore key requirements for responsible use based on an individual benefit-risk assessment.