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Human Serum Anti-aquaporin-4 Immunoglobulin G Detection by Cell-based Assay
Published on: April 5, 2019
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A roadmap to increasing access to AQP4-Ig testing for NMOSD: expert recommendations.
Raquel Vassão-Araujo1,2, Samira Apóstolos3, Angela Marie Jansen4
1Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte (CAPPEM), Departamento de Neurologia, Belo Horizonte MG, Brazil.
Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquiatria
|March 19, 2025
Summary
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) diagnosis in Brazil is hindered by limited access to aquaporin 4 immunoglobulin G (AQP4-IgG) testing. Improving physician knowledge and healthcare access is crucial for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) diagnosis and prognosis significantly improved with the discovery of the aquaporin 4 immunoglobulin G (AQP4-IgG) autoantibody.
- Brazil exhibits a higher prevalence of NMOSD (up to 4.5 per 100,000) than global averages, yet diagnostic disparities persist.
- Limited access to AQP4-IgG testing in Brazil hinders early diagnosis and timely treatment initiation for NMOSD patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address critical gaps in NMOSD diagnosis and treatment within Brazil.
- To emphasize the need for enhanced physician education and accessible AQP4-IgG testing.
- To propose strategies for improving NMOSD patient care through collaborative efforts.
Main Methods:
- Convened a three-day virtual conference with six Brazilian NMOSD experts.
- Analyzed current challenges in NMOSD diagnosis and treatment access in Brazil.
- Synthesized expert recommendations for improving healthcare delivery.
Main Results:
- Identified significant gaps in physicians' knowledge regarding NMOSD.
- Highlighted the necessity for national continuing medical education programs.
- Stressed the importance of ensuring AQP4-IgG antibody test availability and accessibility within the public healthcare system.
Conclusions:
- Establishing national clinical practice guidelines for NMOSD diagnosis and treatment is essential.
- Addressing the fragmented healthcare system, including public-private integration and telemedicine, is vital.
- Collaborative efforts among experts, healthcare providers, and government agencies are required to improve NMOSD patient outcomes in Brazil.

