Immunosuppression in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: A trial sequential analysis and updated meta-analysis

Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) is an autoimmune disease affecting the spinal cord, optic nerves, and brainstem. First-line therapies include Rituximab (RTX), Azathioprine (AZA), and Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF), but their non-inferiority remains uncertain.

To compare the safety and efficacy of RTX, AZA, and MMF through a meta-analysis and assess the findings using trial sequential analysis (TSA).

Databases were systematically searched for observational studies and randomized controlled trials on NMOSD patients treated with RTX, AZA, and/or MMF. Statistical analysis was done using RStudio, Review Manager, and TSA software.

37 studies with 2047 patients were included. ARR improved with RTX, AZA, and MMF, but only RTX improved EDSS. Comparisons showed no significant differences between RTX and AZA/MMF in ARR or EDSS. RTX had lower relapse risk, fewer adverse events, lower rates of elevated transaminases and leukopenia, but a higher risk of infections compared to AZA and MMF. TSA confirmed findings for ARR and adverse events but was inconclusive for EDSS.

AZA and MMF reduce ARR and EDSS similarly to RTX but do not reduce relapse time. RTX has fewer adverse events but higher infection risk. Non-specific immunomodulators may be useful when RTX is unavailable.