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The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test MSPT: An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
Association of Baseline Lipopolysaccharide-Binding Protein with Expanded Disability Status Score Dynamics in Patients
Anda Vilmane1, Oksana Kolesova1,2, Zaiga Nora-Krukle1
1Institute of Microbiology and Virology, Rīga Stradiņš University Research Center, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia.
Abstract:
Forecasting the progression of the disease in the early inflammatory stage of the most prevalent type of multiple sclerosis (MS), referred to as relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), is essential for making prompt treatment modifications, aimed to reduce clinical relapses and disability. In total, 58 patients with RRMS, having an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score less than 4, were included in this study. Baseline magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed, and brain and spinal cord lesions were evaluated. The disability of the patients was evaluated using EDSS at baseline and follow-up; enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were also used to determine the level of blood-based inflammation markers in plasma at baseline. The main results demonstrated that the baseline level of LBP was correlated with an increase in EDSS in a short (8-10 months) follow-up period. Furthermore, the prognostic significance of LBP was only observed in patients who received disease-modifying treatment (DMT) before the study. Our results suggest that the baseline level of LBP may be among the predictors of disability progression in RRMS over short follow-up periods, particularly in those receiving treatment. It highlights the effect of endotoxins in the pathogenesis of RRMS.
Insights
Lipid binding protein (LBP) levels at baseline may predict disability progression in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients, especially those on treatment. This finding aids in early intervention for RRMS management.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Clinical Neurology
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is the most common form of MS.
- Early prediction of disease progression is crucial for timely treatment adjustments.
- Identifying reliable biomarkers can improve patient outcomes and management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of baseline inflammation markers to predict disability progression in RRMS.
- To explore the prognostic significance of lipid binding protein (LBP) in RRMS patients.
- To assess if treatment status influences the predictive value of LBP.
Main Methods:
- Study included 58 RRMS patients with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) < 4.
- Baseline MRI, EDSS, and plasma LBP levels were assessed.
- ELISAs were used to quantify blood-based inflammation markers.
Main Results:
- Baseline LBP levels correlated with increased EDSS over an 8-10 month follow-up.
- Prognostic significance of LBP was observed in patients pre-treated with disease-modifying therapy (DMT).
- LBP may predict short-term disability progression in treated RRMS patients.
Conclusions:
- Baseline LBP levels show potential as a predictor of disability progression in RRMS.
- The predictive role of LBP is particularly relevant in patients receiving DMT.
- Endotoxins may play a role in the pathogenesis of RRMS, influencing disease progression.

