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Multiple sclerosis and COVID-19: The Swedish experience

Anne-Marie Landtblom1,2, Shala G Berntsson1, Inger Boström2

  • 1Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.

Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
|May 24, 2021
PubMed

Insights

The COVID-19 pandemic challenged multiple sclerosis (MS) care, prompting national guidelines on disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and vaccination. Telemedicine and patient-reported outcomes improved MS healthcare delivery during this period.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Immunology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges for managing patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).
  • Concerns arose regarding MS patients' vulnerability to infections and the impact of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs).
  • International guidelines for DMT use in MS during COVID-19 lacked evidence-based consensus.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report on the progress of national MS healthcare in Sweden during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • To provide an overview of the current scientific context regarding MS management and COVID-19.
  • To address specific concerns about anti-CD20 therapies and COVID-19 severity in Sweden.

Main Methods:

  • Development of national guidelines for DMT use in MS patients by the Swedish MS Association (SMSS) and Swedish MS registry (SMSreg).
  • Implementation of a COVID-19 module within the SMSreg to track relevant data.
  • Integration of telemedicine consultations and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) into routine MS care.

Main Results:

  • National guidelines were established for DMT use and COVID-19 vaccination in MS patients.
  • Telemedicine consultations became a standard part of MS healthcare delivery.
  • PROMs facilitated remote patient monitoring and assessment.

Conclusions:

  • Swedish MS healthcare adapted to pandemic challenges through rapid guideline development and technological integration.
  • The study highlights the successful implementation of national strategies for MS patient care during a global health crisis.
  • Continued monitoring and research are essential for optimizing MS management in the context of infectious disease threats.
Keywords:
COVID-19disease-modifying therapieshealthcare managementmultiple sclerosisrisk groups

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