Anti-MOG antibodies associated demyelination following encephalomeningitis: Case report

Han Zhang1, Yang Yang2, Xiang Luo1

  • 1Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.

Journal of Neuroimmunology
|February 25, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disorders can mimic intracranial infections initially. Early recognition is crucial even without initial demyelination signs for timely MOG-AD diagnosis and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology
  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibodies are implicated in various demyelinating diseases.
  • Distinguishing MOG antibody-associated disorders (MOG-ADs) from other neurological conditions is clinically important.

Observation:

  • Three cases presented initially with symptoms resembling intracranial infection, such as encephalomeningitis.
  • These patients showed no initial evidence of demyelination on diagnostic imaging.
  • Subsequent testing revealed MOG antibodies and other demyelinating manifestations.

Findings:

  • MOG-ADs can manifest with prodromal symptoms mimicking intracranial infections.
  • The initial presentation may precede overt signs of demyelination in the optic nerve, spinal cord, or white matter.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider MOG-ADs in patients with encephalomeningitis, even in the absence of demyelination.
  • This highlights the importance of MOG antibody testing in atypical neurological presentations.
  • Prompt diagnosis can lead to appropriate management and potentially better patient outcomes.

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