[Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders - Present Insights and Recent Developments].

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Neurology

Background:

• Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are rare autoimmune diseases affecting the central nervous system.
• Advances in understanding NMOSD pathogenesis have been significant over the last 15 years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of current diagnostic methods and therapeutic strategies for NMOSD.
• To discuss future treatment options for NMOSD.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature and clinical trial data.
• Analysis of diagnostic advancements, including antibody discovery and criteria development.
• Evaluation of approved and emerging disease-modifying therapies.

Main Results:

• Discovery of aquaporin-4 antibodies has revolutionized NMOSD diagnostics.
• Development of new diagnostic criteria has improved patient identification.
• Eculizumab and satralizumab represent the first approved disease-modifying treatments for NMOSD in Europe.

Conclusions:

• Significant progress has been made in the diagnosis and treatment of NMOSD.
• The approval of targeted therapies marks a new era in NMOSD management.
• Future research will focus on further refining treatments and understanding NMOSD heterogeneity.