Preliminary evidence from magnetic resonance imaging for reduction in disease activity after lymphocyte depletion in multiple sclerosis.

摘要: Abstract Summary The central nervous system lesions of multiple sclerosis (MS) can be detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the initial perivascular inflammatory component is distinguished presence gadolinium enhancement. To assess effect systemic lymphocyte depletion on disease activity, seven patients with MS received a 10-day intravenous course humanised monoclonal antibody CAMPATH-1H (anti-CDw52). With some variations in protocol, enhanced cerebral MR images were obtained monthly for 3-4 months before at least 6 after treatment. 28 enhancing areas first series 7 scans; 51 additional active identified 18 scans treatment; 15 20 done over next 3 months, but only 2 seen 23 during follow-up beyond months. difference lesion incidence rate aftertreatment varied ratio was significantly reduced three patients. Collectively, "meta-analysis", ratios 0·58 (95% Cl 0·09-0·24) all 0·24 (0 14-0·42; p activity provides direct, preliminary, evidence that depends availability circulating lymphocytes prevented depletion. It too early to say anything about clinical results treatment this agent.