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Induction of Paralysis and Visual System Injury in Mice by T Cells Specific for Neuromyelitis Optica Autoantigen Aquaporin-4
Published on: August 21, 2017
Brain involvement in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.
Koon Ho Chan1, C T Tse, C P Chung
1Queen Mary Hospital, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 4/F Professorial Block, 102 Pokfulam Rd, Hong Kong. koonho@hkucc.hku.hk
Archives of Neurology
|November 16, 2011
Summary
Brain involvement is common in Hong Kong Chinese patients with Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSDs). Over half of patients showed brain abnormalities, with brainstem encephalitis being a frequent clinical manifestation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSDs) are severe central nervous system inflammatory demyelinating diseases.
- Brain involvement in NMOSDs is increasingly recognized as a significant aspect of the disease spectrum.
Observation:
- This study investigated brain involvement in Hong Kong Chinese patients diagnosed with NMOSDs.
- A retrospective analysis included 34 patients with NMOSDs, followed for at least two years.
Findings:
- Fifty-nine percent of NMOSD patients exhibited brain involvement, with 32% presenting clinical symptoms.
- Magnetic resonance imaging revealed inflammatory demyelinating lesions in 56% of patients, predominantly in the brainstem (44%).
- Brainstem encephalitis was a common clinical manifestation, observed in 24% of patients and serving as the initial symptom in 18%.
Implications:
- The findings highlight the high prevalence of brain involvement in Hong Kong Chinese NMOSD patients.
- Recognizing brainstem encephalitis as a common clinical presentation is crucial for timely diagnosis and management of NMOSDs.
- This study underscores the importance of neuroimaging in evaluating NMOSD patients for central nervous system involvement beyond the optic nerves and spinal cord.
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