Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease/paediatric multiple sclerosis overlap: a diagnostic

Taro Higuchi1, Itaru Hayakawa2, Hiroshi Sakuma3

  • 1Center for Postgraduate Education and Training, National Center for Child Health and Development, Setagaya-ku, Japan.

BMJ Case Reports
|January 19, 2025
PubMed

Insights

This case study highlights diagnostic challenges in pediatric acquired demyelinating syndromes, showing overlap between Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Associated Disease (MOGAD) and pediatric Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Early MOGAD diagnosis and treatment improved vision, aiding differentiation.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Ophthalmology

Background:

  • Acquired demyelinating syndromes in children present diagnostic challenges due to overlapping features.
  • Advancements in classification aid diagnosis, but complex cases require careful evaluation.

Observation:

  • A young Asian girl experienced acute visual loss with optic neuritis and atrophy.
  • Brain imaging revealed juxtacortical demyelinating lesions.
  • Elevated anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody confirmed MOGAD.

Findings:

  • The patient met criteria for MOGAD and potentially for pediatric Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
  • Corticosteroid treatment led to visual recovery without recurrence.
  • Optic nerve atrophy persisted despite normal visual acuity, favoring MOGAD over MS.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the diagnostic complexity and potential overlap between MOGAD and pediatric MS.
  • Highlights the importance of specific antibody testing in differentiating these conditions.
  • Emphasizes MOGAD as a distinct entity in pediatric demyelinating disorders.