Author(s): Jarius S.; Paul F.; Aktas O.; Asgari N.; Dale R.C.; de Seze J.; Franciotta D.; Fujihara K.; Jacob A.; Kim H.J.; Kleiter I.; Kumpfel T.; Levy M.; Palace J.; Ruprecht K.; Saiz A.; Trebst C.; Weinshenker B.G.; Wildemann B.
Source: Nervenarzt; 2018
Publication Date: 2018
Publication Type(s): Article In Press
Available at Der Nervenarzt – from SpringerLink – Medicine
Abstract:Over the past few years, new-generation cell-based assays have demonstrated a robust association of autoantibodies to full-length human myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG-IgG) with (mostly recurrent) optic neuritis, myelitis and brainstem encephalitis, as well as with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)-like presentations. Most experts now consider MOG-IgG-associated encephalomyelitis (MOG-EM) a disease entity in its own right, immunopathogenetically distinct from both classic multiple sclerosis (MS) and aquaporin-4 (AQP4)-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). Owing to a substantial overlap in clinicoradiological presentation, MOG-EM was often unwittingly misdiagnosed as MS in the past. Accordingly, increasing numbers of patients with suspected or established MS are currently being tested for MOG-IgG. However, screening of large unselected cohorts for rare biomarkers can significantly reduce the positive predictive value of a test. To lessen the hazard of overdiagnosing MOG-EM, which may lead to inappropriate treatment, more selective criteria for MOG-IgG testing are urgently needed. In this paper, we propose indications for MOG-IgG testing based on expert consensus. In addition, we give a list of conditions atypical for MOG-EM (“red flags”) that should prompt physicians to challenge a positive MOG-IgG test result. Finally, we provide recommendations regarding assay methodology, specimen sampling and data interpretation, and propose for the first time diagnostic criteria for MOG-EM.
Copyright © 2018, The Author(s).
Database: EMBASE