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Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
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[Neurofilament light chain: a diagnostic potential for multiple sclerosis].
N N Spirin1, E V Kiseleva1, N N Spirina1
1Yaroslavl State Medical University, Yaroslavl, Russia.
Zhurnal Nevrologii I Psikhiatrii Imeni S.S. Korsakova
|July 29, 2024
Summary
Serum neurofilament light chain (NFL) levels can predict multiple sclerosis (MS) exacerbations and disability progression. Higher NFL concentrations indicate an increased risk of future clinical worsening in MS patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.
- Disease activity and patient disability significantly impact MS progression.
- Neurofilament light chain (NFL) is a biomarker implicated in neurodegeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the relationship between serum NFL levels and disease activity, disability, and treatment in MS patients.
- To investigate NFL as a potential marker for predicting MS exacerbations and disability.
- To evaluate the influence of disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) on NFL concentrations.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme immunoassay was used to quantify serum NFL levels in 114 patients with definite MS.
- NFL concentrations were analyzed in relation to MS course, activity, neurological disorder severity, and DMD use.
- Statistical analysis correlated initial NFL levels with subsequent disability progression (EDSS) and clinical exacerbations.
Main Results:
- An NFL level ≥ 4201 pg/ml was associated with an increased risk of clinical exacerbation within 4 months.
- Patients with disability progression over 2 years had significantly higher baseline NFL levels compared to those with stable EDSS.
- An NFL level of 4943 pg/ml or higher was identified as a potential predictor of increased disability within two years.
Conclusions:
- Serum NFL levels serve as a valuable diagnostic marker for predicting potential MS exacerbations.
- Serum NFL concentration is a reliable predictor of future disability progression in patients with MS.
- Monitoring serum NFL may aid in personalized treatment strategies and management of MS.
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