Long-Term Outcomes in Stiff Person Spectrum Disorder

Long-term outcome data for stiff person spectrum disorder (SPSD) remain limited and sustained response to treatment varies.

In this retrospective cohort study, we included patients with probable or definite SPSD (Mayo Clinic criteria), evaluated at Mayo Clinic (12/1995-07/2024) with ≥ 5 years of follow-up after diagnosis. Primary outcome measures included the modified Rankin scale (mRS) and use of gait aids.

Fifty-four patients were included, 41 (76%) were female; median age at onset was 45 years (16-78). Most were antibody-positive (51 [94%]), with high-titer (serum, ≥ 20 nmol/L) GAD65-IgG in 45 (83%). Nine patients had a stiff-limb presentation (17%). The median interval from onset to diagnosis was 2 years (0-34), and median follow-up was 9 years (5-26). Most patients (46 [85%]) received immune therapy; 37 (82%) reported improvement. All patients had significant impairment (mRS ≥ 2) at nadir, with 31 (57%) losing functional independence (mRS ≥ 3) and 40 (75%) requiring bilateral gait assistance. The median time from onset to nadir was 6 years (0-39). At last follow-up, most (37 [69%]) were functionally independent (mRS ≤ 2), including 8 (15%) with minimal restrictions (mRS ≤ 1). Bilateral gait assistance was needed in 22 (41%). Among 40 patients with ≥ 10 years of follow-up, 22 (56%) had an mRS ≤ 2 and 25 (63%) required a gait aid at last follow-up. Poor outcome in this population was associated with bilateral gait assistance at nadir and older age (p < 0.05).

Although over half of SPSD patients lose functional independence at disease nadir, many regain independence and achieve well-controlled symptoms.