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  • 1. Al Nimer, Faiez
    et al.
    Elliott, Christina
    Bergman, Joakim
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Khademi, Mohsen
    Dring, Ann M
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Aeinehband, Shahin
    Bergenheim, Tommy
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Christensen, Jeppe Romme
    Sellebjerg, Finn
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Linington, Christopher
    Olsson, Tomas
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Lipocalin-2 is increased in progressive multiple sclerosis and inhibits remyelination2016In: Neurology: Neuroimmunology & Neuroinflammation, E-ISSN 2332-7812, Vol. 3, no 1, article id e191Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: We aimed to examine the regulation of lipocalin-2 (LCN2) in multiple sclerosis (MS) and its potential functional relevance with regard to myelination and neurodegeneration. Methods: We determined LCN2 levels in 3 different studies: (1) in CSF and plasma from a case-control study comparing patients with MS (n = 147) with controls (n = 50) and patients with relapsing-remitting MS (n = 75) with patients with progressive MS (n = 72); (2) in CSF and brain tissue microdialysates from a case series of 7 patients with progressive MS; and (3) in CSF at baseline and 60 weeks after natalizumab treatment in a cohort study of 17 patients with progressive MS. Correlation to neurofilament light, a marker of neuroaxonal injury, was tested. The effect of LCN2 on myelination and neurodegeneration was studied in a rat in vitro neuroglial cell coculture model. Results: Intrathecal production of LCN2 was increased predominantly in patients with progressive MS (p < 0.005 vs relapsing-remitting MS) and displayed a positive correlation to neurofilament light (p = 0.005). Levels of LCN2 in brain microdialysates were severalfold higher than in the CSF, suggesting local production in progressive MS. Treatment with natalizumab in progressive MS reduced LCN2 levels an average of 13% (p < 0.0001). LCN2 was found to inhibit remyelination in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. Conclusions: LCN2 production is predominantly increased in progressive MS. Although this moderate increase does not support the use of LCN2 as a biomarker, the correlation to neurofilament light and the inhibitory effect on remyelination suggest that LCN2 might contribute to neurodegeneration through myelination-dependent pathways.

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  • 2. Al Nimer, Faiez
    et al.
    Thelin, Eric
    Nystrom, Harriet
    Dring, Ann M.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Nelson, David W.
    Bellander, Bo-Michael
    Comparative Assessment of the Prognostic Value of Biomarkers in Traumatic Brain Injury Reveals an Independent Role for Serum Levels of Neurofilament Light2015In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 10, no 7, article id e0132177Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common cause of death and disability, worldwide. Early determination of injury severity is essential to improve care. Neurofilament light (NF-L) has been introduced as a marker of neuroaxonal injury in neuroinflammatory/-degenerative diseases. In this study we determined the predictive power of serum (s-) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF-) NF-L levels towards outcome, and explored their potential correlation to diffuse axonal injury (DAI). A total of 182 patients suffering from TBI admitted to the neurointensive care unit at a level 1 trauma center were included. S-NF-L levels were acquired, together with S100B and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). CSF-NF-L was measured in a subcohort (n = 84) with ventriculostomies. Clinical and neuro-radiological parameters, including computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging, were included in the analyses. Outcome was assessed 6 to 12 months after injury using the Glasgow Outcome Score (1-5). In univariate proportional odds analyses mean s-NF-L, -S100B and -NSE levels presented a pseudo-R-2 Nagelkerke of 0.062, 0.214 and 0.074 in correlation to outcome, respectively. In a multivariate analysis, in addition to a model including core parameters (pseudo-R-2 0.33 towards outcome; Age, Glasgow Coma Scale, pupil response, Stockholm CT score, abbreviated injury severity score, S100B), S-NF-L yielded an extra 0.023 pseudo-R-2 and a significantly better model (p = 0.006) No correlation between DAI or CT assessed-intracranial damage and NF-L was found. Our study thus demonstrates that SNF-L correlates to TBI outcome, even if used in models with S100B, indicating an independent contribution to the prediction, perhaps by reflecting different pathophysiological processes, not possible to monitor using conventional neuroradiology. Although we did not find a predictive value of NF-L for DAI, this cannot be completely excluded. We suggest further

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  • 3. Alping, P.
    et al.
    Islam-Jakobsson, Protik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Novakova, L.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Björck, A.
    Axelsson, M.
    Malmeström, C.
    Fink, K.
    Frisell, T.
    Lycke, J.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Piehl, F.
    Superior efficacy and tolerability of rituximab as compared to fingolimod for MS patients switching from natalizumab due to positive JC virus serology2015In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 21, no 11, p. 555-555, article id P1079Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 4. Alping, P.
    et al.
    Svenningsson, A.
    Clinical Science Danderyd´s Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Burman, J.
    Dahle, C.
    Fink, K.
    Hillert, J.
    Lycke, J.
    Landtblom, A. -M
    Martin, C.
    Nilsson, P.
    Walentin, F.
    Olsson, T.
    Frisell, T.
    Piehl, F.
    Rituximab in multiple sclerosis: data from the swedish MS registry2016In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 22, p. 49-49Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 5. Alping, Peter
    et al.
    Frisell, Thomas
    Novakova, Lenka
    Islam-Jakobsson, Protik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Björck, Anna
    Axelsson, Markus
    Malmeström, Clas
    Fink, Katharina
    Lycke, Jan
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Rituximab versus Fingolimod after Natalizumab in Multiple Sclerosis Patients2016In: Annals of Neurology, ISSN 0364-5134, E-ISSN 1531-8249, Vol. 79, no 6, p. 950-958Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: Many JC virus antibody-positive relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients who are stable on natalizumab switch to other therapies to avoid progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.

    Methods: We compared outcomes for all RRMS patients switching from natalizumab due to JC virus antibody positivity at 3 Swedish multiple sclerosis centers with different preferential use of rituximab and fingolimod (Stockholm, n = 156, fingolimod 51%; Gothenburg, n = 64, fingolimod 88%; Umea, n = 36, fingolimod 19%), yielding a total cohort of N = 256 (fingolimod 55%).

    Results: Within 1.5 years of cessation of natalizumab, 1.8% (rituximab) and 17.6% (fingolimod) of patients experienced a clinical relapse (hazard ratio for rituximab = 0.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.02-0.43). The hazard ratio (favoring rituximab) for adverse events (5.3% vs 21.1%) and treatment discontinuation (1.8% vs 28.2%) were 0.25 (95% CI = 0.10-0.59) and 0.07 (95% CI = 0.02-0.30), respectively. Furthermore, contrast-enhancing lesions were found in 1.4% (rituximab) versus 24.2% (fingolimod) of magnetic resonance imaging examinations (odds ratio = 0.05, 95% CI = 0.00-0.22). Differences remained when adjusting for possible confounders (age, sex, disability status, time on natalizumab, washout time, follow-up time, and study center).

    Interpretation: Our findings suggest an improved effectiveness and tolerability of rituximab compared with fingolimod in stable RRMS patients who switch from natalizumab due to JC virus antibody positivity. Although residual confounding factors cannot be ruled out, the shared reason for switching from natalizumab and the preferential use of either rituximab or fingolimod in 2 of the centers mitigates these concerns.

  • 6. Axelsson, Markus
    et al.
    Malmeström, Clas
    Gunnarsson, Martin
    Zetterberg, Henrik
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, Jan
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Immunosuppressive therapy reduces axonal damage in progressive multiple sclerosis2013In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 19, no 11, Supplement: S, p. 543-543Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 7. Axelsson, Markus
    et al.
    Malmeström, Clas
    Gunnarsson, Martin
    Zetterberg, Henrik
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, Jan
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Immunosuppressive therapy reduces axonal damage in progressive multiple sclerosis2014In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 20, no 1, p. 43-50Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: In progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS), disease-modifying therapies have not been shown to reduce disability progression. Objective: The impact from immunosuppressive therapy in PMS was explored by analyzing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers of axonal damage (neurofilament light protein, NFL), astrogliosis (glial fibrillary acidic protein, GFAP), and B-cell regulation (CXCL13). Methods: CSF was obtained from 35 patients with PMS before and after 12-24 months of mitoxantrone (n=30) or rituximab (n=5) treatment, and from 14 age-matched healthy control subjects. The levels of NFL, GFAP, and CXCL13 were determined by immunoassays. Results: The mean NFL level decreased by 51% (1781 ng/l, SD 2018 vs. 874 ng/l, SD 694, p=0.007), the mean CXCL13 reduction was 55% (9.71 pg/ml, SD 16.08, vs. 4.37 pg/ml, SD 1.94, p=0.008), while GFAP levels remained unaffected. Subgroup analysis showed that the NFL reduction was confined to previously untreated patients (n=20) and patients with Gd-enhancing lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (n=12) prior to study baseline. Conclusions: Our data imply that 12-24 months of immunosuppressive therapy reduces axonal damage in PMS, particularly in patients with ongoing disease activity. Determination of NFL levels in CSF is a potential surrogate marker for treatment efficacy and as endpoint in phase II trials of MS.

  • 8.
    Bergman, J.
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Dring, Ann
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Wuolikainen, Anna
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Gilthorpe, Jonathan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Bergenheim, Tommy
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Cytokine levels in interstitial brain fluid in progressive multiple sclerosis measured via intracerebral microdialysis2016In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 22, p. 511-511Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 9.
    Bergman, Joakim
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences.
    Burman, Joachim
    Bergenheim, A. Tommy
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences. Department of Clinical Sciences, Karolinska Institutet Danderyd Hospital, Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Intrathecal treatment trial of rituximab in progressive MS: results after a 2-year extension2021In: Journal of Neurology, ISSN 0340-5354, E-ISSN 1432-1459, Vol. 268, no 2, p. 651-657Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objectives: To evaluate the effect of intrathecally (IT) delivered rituximab as a therapeutic intervention for progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) during a 3-year follow-up period.

    Methods: Participants of a 1-year open-label phase 1b study of IT delivered rituximab to patients with PMS were offered extended treatment with follow-up for an additional 2 years. During the extension phase, treatment with 25 mg rituximab was administered every 6 months via a subcutaneous Ommaya reservoir connected to the right frontal horn with a ventricular catheter.

    Results: Mild to moderate vertigo and nausea occurred in 4 out of 14 participants as temporary adverse events associated with IT rituximab infusion. During the entire 3-year period, two cases of low-virulent bacterial meningitis occurred, which were successfully treated. Walking speed deteriorated significantly during the study.

    Conclusions: IT administration of rituximab via a ventricular catheter was well tolerated. Considering the meningitis cases, the risk of infection was not negligible. The continued loss of walking speed indicates that IT rituximab was not able to stop disease progression.

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  • 10.
    Bergman, Joakim
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Burman, Joachim
    Gilthorpe, Jonathan D.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Zetterberg, Henrik
    Jiltsova, Elena
    Bergenheim, Tommy
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Intrathecal treatment trial of rituximab in progressive MS: An open-label phase 1b study2018In: Neurology, ISSN 0028-3878, E-ISSN 1526-632X, Vol. 91, no 20, p. E1893-E1901Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objectives To perform a phase 1b assessment of the safety and feasibility of intrathecally delivered rituximab as a treatment for progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) and to evaluate the effect of treatment on disability and CSF biomarkers during a1-year follow-up period. Methods Three doses of rituximab (25 mg with a 1-week interval) were administered in 23 patients with PMS via a ventricular catheter inserted into the right frontal horn and connected to a subcutaneous Ommaya reservoir. Follow-ups were performed at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Results Mild to moderate vertigo and nausea were common but temporary adverse events associated with intrathecal rituximab infusion, which was otherwise well tolerated. The only severe adverse event was a case of low-virulent bacterial meningitis that was treated effectively. Of 7 clinical assessments, only 1 showed statistically significant improvement 1 year after treatment. No treatment effect was observed during the follow-up period among 6 CSF biomarkers. Conclusions Intrathecal administration of rituximab was well tolerated. However, it may involve a risk for injection-related infections. The lack of a control group precludes conclusions being drawn regarding treatment efficacy. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01719159. Classification of evidence This study provides Class IV evidence that intrathecal rituximab treatment is well tolerated and feasible in PMS but involves a risk of severe infections.

  • 11.
    Bergman, Joakim
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Dring, Ann
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Zetterberg, Henrik
    Blennow, Kaj
    Norgren, Niklas
    Gilthorpe, Jonathan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Bergenheim, Tommy
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Danderyd Hospital AB, Stockholm, Sweden..
    Neurofilament light in CSF and serum is a sensitive marker for axonal white matter injury in MS2016In: Neurology: Neuroimmunology & Neuroinflammation, E-ISSN 2332-7812, Vol. 3, no 5, article id e271Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    OBJECTIVE: In an ongoing, open-label, phase 1b study on the intrathecal administration of rituximab for progressive multiple sclerosis, an intraventricular catheter was inserted for drug delivery. The objective of this study was to characterize the limited white matter axonal injury evoked by catheter insertion by analyzing a panel of markers for tissue damage in CSF and serum.

    METHODS: Lumbar CSF and serum were collected before catheter insertion and at regular intervals during the follow-up period of 1 year. Levels of neurofilament light polypeptide (NF-L), glial fibrillary acidic protein, microtubule-associated protein tau, and S100 calcium binding protein B were measured in the CSF, and NF-L was also quantified in serum at each time point.

    RESULTS: One month after neurosurgical trauma, there was a distinct peak in NF-L concentration in both CSF and serum. In contrast, the biomarkers S100 calcium binding protein B, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and microtubule-associated protein tau did not show any significant changes. NF-L levels in both CSF and serum peaked at 1 month post surgery, returning to baseline after 6 to 9 months. A strong correlation was observed between the concentrations of NF-L in CSF and serum.

    CONCLUSIONS: The NF-L level, in CSF and serum, appears to be both a sensitive and specific marker for white matter axonal injury. This makes NF-L a valuable tool with which to evaluate acute white matter axonal damage in a clinical setting. Serum analysis of NF-L may become a convenient way to follow white matter axonal damage longitudinally.

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  • 12.
    Bergman, Joakim
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences. Department of Clinical Sciences, Karolinska Institutet Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Liv, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine.
    Bergenheim, A. Tommy
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences.
    Burman, Joachim
    Location matters: highly divergent protein levels in samples from diferent CNS compartments in a clinical trial of rituximab for progressive MS2020In: Fluids and Barriers of the CNS, E-ISSN 2045-8118, no 1, article id 49Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: The relationship between proteins in different CNS extracellular compartments is unknown. In this study the levels of selected proteins in three compartments in people with progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) were compared.

    Methods: During an open label, phase 1b study on intraventricular administration of rituximab for PMS, samples were collected from the interstitial space (ISS) of the brain through microdialysis. Samples were also obtained from ventricular and lumbar cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). These samples were analyzed with a multiplexed proximity extension assay, measuring the levels of 180 proteins split equally between two panels, detecting proteins associated with immunology and neurology, respectively.

    Results: Considerable differences in concentrations were observed between the three analyzed compartments. Compared to ventricular CSF, ISS fluid contained statistically significant higher levels of 25 proteins (84% immunology panel and 16% neurology panel). Ventricular CSF contained significantly higher levels of 54 proteins (31% immunology panel and 69% neurology panel) compared to ISS fluid, and 17 proteins (76% immunology panel and 24% neurology panel) compared to lumbar CSF. Lumbar CSF showed significantly higher levels of 115 proteins (32% immunology panel and 68% neurology panel) compared to ventricular CSF. The three compartments displayed poor correlation with a median Spearman’s rho of -0.1 (IQR 0.4) between ISS and ventricular CSF and 0.3 (IQR 0.4) between ventricular and lumbar CSF.

    Conclusion: A substantial heterogeneity in the protein levels of samples obtained from different CNS compartments was seen. Therefore, data obtained from analysis of lumbar CSF should be interpreted with caution when making conclusions about pathophysiological processes in brain tissue.

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  • 13. Burman, Joachim
    et al.
    Iacobaeus, Ellen
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, Jan
    Gunnarsson, Martin
    Nilsson, Petra
    Vrethem, Magnus
    Fredrikson, Sten
    Martin, Claes
    Sandstedt, Anna
    Uggla, Bertil
    Lenhoff, Stig
    Johansson, Jan-Erik
    Isaksson, Cecilia
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Hägglund, Hans
    Carlson, Kristina
    Fagius, Jan
    Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for aggressive multiple sclerosis: the Swedish experience2014In: Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, ISSN 0022-3050, E-ISSN 1468-330X, Vol. 85, no 10, p. 1116-1121Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND: Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a viable option for treatment of aggressive multiple sclerosis (MS). No randomised controlled trial has been performed, and thus, experiences from systematic and sustained follow-up of treated patients constitute important information about safety and efficacy. In this observational study, we describe the characteristics and outcome of the Swedish patients treated with HSCT for MS. METHODS: Neurologists from the major hospitals in Sweden filled out a follow-up form with prospectively collected data. Fifty-two patients were identified in total; 48 were included in the study and evaluated for safety and side effects; 41 patients had at least 1 year of follow-up and were further analysed for clinical and radiological outcome. In this cohort, 34 patients (83%) had relapsing-remitting MS, and mean follow-up time was 47 months. RESULTS: At 5 years, relapse-free survival was 87%; MRI event-free survival 85%; expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score progression-free survival 77%; and disease-free survival (no relapses, no new MRI lesions and no EDSS progression) 68%. Presence of gadolinium-enhancing lesions prior to HSCT was associated with a favourable outcome (disease-free survival 79% vs 46%, p=0.028). There was no mortality. The most common long-term side effects were herpes zoster reactivation (15%) and thyroid disease (8.4%). CONCLUSIONS: HSCT is a very effective treatment of inflammatory active MS and can be performed with a high degree of safety at experienced centres.

  • 14. Burman, Joachim
    et al.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Cerebrospinal fluid concentration of Galectin-9 is increased in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis2016In: Journal of Neuroimmunology, ISSN 0165-5728, E-ISSN 1872-8421, Vol. 292, p. 40-44Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Galectin-9 is produced by activated astrocytes, induces a pro -inflammatory response in microglia and maybe important to the pathogenesis of secondary progressive MS. In this study, Galectin-9 concentrations in CSF samples from healthy controls and two independent patient cohorts of MS patients were determined by ELISA. Patients from one of the cohorts underwent MRI as well. Galectin-9 concentrations in CSF were higher in SPMS patients than healthy controls and RRMS patients in both cohorts. Galectin-9 concentrations correlated with the number of lesions on Tl-weighted images, but not with gadolinium enhancing lesions, IgG index or CSF cell count.

  • 15. Burman, Joachim
    et al.
    Svensson, Emma
    Fransson, Moa
    Loskog, Angelica S. I.
    Zetterberg, Henrik
    Raininko, Raili
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Fagius, Jan
    Mangsbo, Sara M.
    The cerebrospinal fluid cytokine signature of multiple sclerosis: A homogenous response that does not conform to the Th1/Th2/Th17 convention2014In: Journal of Neuroimmunology, ISSN 0165-5728, E-ISSN 1872-8421, Vol. 277, no 1-2, p. 153-159Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    In this cross-sectional study, we wanted to identify key cytokines characteristic of different stages of multiple sclerosis (MS). To this end, cerebrospinal fluid from patients with MS was investigated with a multiplexed fluorescent bead-based immunoassay. In total 43 cytokines were assessed and related to clinical and imaging data. Increased levels of CCL22, CXCL10 and sCD40L characterized relapsing-remitting MS patients with the presence of gadolinium-enhancing lesions; decreased CCL2 and increased CXCL1 and CCL5 were typical of relapsing-remitting MS patients irrespectively of the presence of gadolinium-enhancing lesions. These homogenous patterns of cytokine activation do not conform to conventional Th1/Th2/Th17 responses. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  • 16.
    de Flon, Pierre
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Gunnarsson, Martin
    Laurell, Katarina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Söderström, Lars
    Birgander, Richard
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Diagnostic Radiology.
    Lindqvist, Thomas
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Diagnostic Radiology.
    Krauss, Wolfgang
    Dring, Ann
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Bergman, Joakim
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Reduced inflammation in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis after therapy switch to rituximab2016In: Neurology, ISSN 0028-3878, E-ISSN 1526-632X, Vol. 87, no 2, p. 141-147Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: To describe the effects of switching treatment from ongoing first-line injectable therapies to rituximab on inflammatory activity measured by MRI and levels of CSF neurofilament light chain (CSF-NFL) in a cohort of patients with clinically stable relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

    Method: Seventy-five patients with clinically stable RRMS treated with the first-line injectables interferon-β (IFN-β) and glatiramer acetate (GA) at 3 Swedish centers were switched to rituximab in this open-label phase II multicenter study. After a run-in period of 3 months, 2 IV doses of 1,000 mg rituximab were given 2 weeks apart followed by repeated clinical assessment, MRI, and CSF-NFL for 24 months.

    Results: The mean cumulated number of gadolinium-enhancing lesions per patient at months 3 and 6 after treatment shift to rituximab was reduced compared to the run-in period (0.028 vs 0.36, p = 0.029). During the first year after treatment shift, the mean number of new or enlarged T2 lesions per patient was reduced (0.01 vs 0.28, p = 0.004) and mean CSF-NFL levels were reduced by 21% (p = 0.01).

    Conclusions: For patients with RRMS, a treatment switch from IFN or GA to rituximab is associated with reduced inflammatory activity measured by MRI and CSF-NFL.

    Classification of evidence: This study provides Class IV evidence that rituximab has an equal or superior effect in reducing inflammatory activity in RRMS measured by MRI and CSF-NFL compared to first-line injectables during the first year after treatment shift.

  • 17.
    de Flon, Pierre
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Laurell, Katarina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Blennow, Kaj
    Söderström, Lars
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Zetterberg, Henrik
    Gunnarsson, Martin
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Department of Clinical Sciences, Karolinska Institute Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Comparison of plasma and cerebrospinal fluid neurofilament light in a multiple sclerosis trial2019In: Acta Neurologica Scandinavica, ISSN 0001-6314, E-ISSN 1600-0404, Vol. 139, no 5, p. 462-468Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: The main objective of this study was to evaluate the axonal component neurofilament light protein (NFL) in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as an outcome measure in a clinical trial on disease-modifying treatments in multiple sclerosis.

    Materials and methods: Seventy-five patients with clinically stable relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) participating in the clinical trial "Switch-To RItuXimab in MS" (STRIX-MS) were switched to rituximab from first-line injectable therapy and then followed up for 2 years. Thirty patients from the extension trial (STRIX-MS extension), accepting repeated lumbar punctures, were followed up for an additional 3 years. Plasma and CSF samples were collected yearly during the follow-up. NFL concentration in plasma was measured by an in-house NF-light assay on the Simoa platform with a Homebrew kit. NFL concentration in CSF was measured by sandwich ELISA.

    Results: The mean levels of NFL, in both CSF and plasma, were low. The reduction of CSF-NFL was 25% during the first year of follow-up (from a mean of 471 [SD 393] to 354 [SD 174] pg/mL; P = 0.006) and was statistically significant. The corresponding reduction in plasma NFL was 18% (from 9.73 [SD 7.04] to 7.94 [SD 3.10] pg/mL; P = 0.055) and did not reach statistical significance.

    Conclusion: This study indicates that NFL in plasma is less sensitive as an endpoint in group comparisons than NFL in CSF. Given that plasma NFL is far easier to access, it is a promising and awaited method but further studies are needed to optimize the use in clinical trials.

  • 18.
    de Flon, Pierre
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Department of Neurology, Östersund Hospital, Östersund, Sweden.
    Laurell, Katarina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Söderström, Lars
    Gunnarsson, Martin
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Improved treatment satisfaction after switching therapy to rituximab in relapsing-remitting MS2017In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 23, no 9, p. 1249-1257Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    OBJECTIVE: New disease-modifying treatment strategies in multiple sclerosis offer possibilities for individualised treatment. In this study, we evaluated patient-reported outcome measures before and after a switch in therapy from first-line injectable treatments to rituximab.

    METHOD: A total of 75 patients with clinically stable relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) receiving ongoing first-line injectable treatment at three Swedish centres had their treatment switched to rituximab in this open-label phase II multicentre study. Assessment of treatment satisfaction, patient-perceived impact of the disease on daily life, fatigue, cognitive symptoms and disease progression was performed 3 months before and at the time of the treatment shift and then for a subsequent 2-year period.

    RESULTS: The overall treatment satisfaction rating improved significantly from a mean of 4.8 (scale range: 1-7), while on injectable therapies, to a mean of 6.3 after 1 year of rituximab treatment ( p < 0.001). This improvement was sustained after 2 years. There was no significant change in scores for patient-perceived impact of disease, fatigue or disease progression.

    CONCLUSION: A shift in therapy from first-line injectables to rituximab in a cohort of clinically stable RRMS patients was followed by improved treatment satisfaction. This is clinically relevant as it may influence long-term adherence to immunomodulating therapy.

  • 19.
    de Flon, Pierre
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Soderstrom, L.
    Laurell, Katarina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Gunnarsson, M.
    Svenningsson, A.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Department of Clinical Sciences, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Changes of cerebrospinal fluid cytokine profile as a result of switching from first line MS-therapies to rituximab2016In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 22, p. 622-622Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 20.
    de Flon, Pierre
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Söderström, Lars
    Laurell, Katarina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Dring, Ann
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Gunnarsson, Martin
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Dept of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm.
    Immunological profile in cerebrospinal fluid of patients with multiple sclerosis after treatment switch to rituximab and compared with healthy controls2018In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 13, no 2, article id e0192516Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    OBJECTIVE: To investigate changes in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) immunological profile after treatment switch from first-line injectables to rituximab in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), and to compare the profile in MS patients with healthy controls (HC).

    METHOD: Cerebrospinal fluid from 70 patients with clinically stable RRMS and 55 HC was analysed by a multiplex electrochemiluminescence method for a broad panel of cytokines and immunoactive substances before, and over a two-year period after, treatment switch to rituximab. After quality assessment of data, using a predefined algorithm, 14 analytes were included in the final analysis.

    RESULTS: Ten of the 14 analytes differed significantly in MS patients compared with HC at baseline. Levels of IP-10 (CXCL10), IL-12/23p40, IL-6, sVCAM1, IL-15, sICAM1 and IL-8 (CXCL8) decreased significantly after treatment switch to rituximab. The cytokines IP-10 and IL-12/IL-23p40 displayed the largest difference versus HC at baseline and also the largest relative reduction after therapy switch to rituximab.

    CONCLUSION: We found significant changes in the immunological profile after therapy switch to rituximab in RRMS in the direction towards the values of HC. IP-10 and IL12/IL-23p40 deserve further studies as part of the immunopathogenesis of MS as well as for the mode of action of rituximab in MS.

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  • 21. Forsberg, L.
    et al.
    Johansson, S.
    Nordin, N.
    Hillert, J.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, J.
    Burman, J.
    Landtblom, A. -M
    Walentin, F.
    Martin, C.
    Nilsson, P.
    Dahle, C.
    Piehl, F.
    Olsson, T.
    A Swedish nationwide pharmaco-epidemiological and genetic study (IMSE) of the long-term safety and efficacy of dimethyl fumarate2015In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 21, p. 286-287Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 22. Gunnarsson, Martin
    et al.
    Malmestrom, Clas
    Rosengren, Lars
    Lycke, Jan
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    The Neurofilament Light Chain is Not Stable in Vitro Reply2011In: Annals of Neurology, ISSN 0364-5134, E-ISSN 1531-8249, Vol. 69, no 6, p. 1066-1067Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 23. Gunnarsson, Martin
    et al.
    Malmeström, Clas
    Axelsson, Markus
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Vrethem, Magnus
    Olsson, Tomas
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Norgren, Niklas
    Rosengren, Lars
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Lycke, Jan
    Axonal damage in relapsing multiple sclerosis is markedly reduced by natalizumab2011In: Annals of Neurology, ISSN 0364-5134, E-ISSN 1531-8249, Vol. 69, no 1, p. 83-89Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Our data demonstrate that natalizumab treatment reduces the accumulation of nerve injury in relapsing forms of MS. It is anticipated that highly effective anti-inflammatory treatment can reduce axonal loss, thereby preventing development of permanent neurological disability.

  • 24. Hagglund, H.
    et al.
    Askmark, H.
    Stromberg, U.
    Axelsson, H.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Isaksson, C.
    Wahlin, A.
    Andersen, O.
    Johansson, J.
    Press, R.
    Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a viable treatment option for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy2013In: Bone Marrow Transplantation, ISSN 0268-3369, E-ISSN 1476-5365, Vol. 48, p. S336-S336Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 25. Holmen, C.
    et al.
    Piehl, F.
    Hillert, J.
    Nilsson, P.
    Dahle, C.
    Feltelius, N.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Norrlands Universitetssjukhus, Umeå.
    Lycke, J.
    Fagius, J.
    Valentin, F.
    Martin, C.
    Olsson, T.
    The 'Immunomodulation and Multiple Sclerosis Epidemiology' (IMSE) study: a Swedish nationwide pharmaco-epidemiological and genetic study focused on long-term safety and efficacy of natalizumab (Tysabri)2012In: European Journal of Neurology, ISSN 1351-5101, E-ISSN 1468-1331, Vol. 19, p. 751-751Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 26. Holmén, Carolina
    et al.
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Hillert, Jan
    Fogdell-Hahn, Anna
    Lundkvist, Malin
    Karlberg, Elin
    Nilsson, Petra
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Feltelius, Nils
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, Jan
    Olsson, Tomas
    A Swedish national post-marketing surveillance study of natalizumab treatment in multiple sclerosis2011In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 17, no 6, p. 708-719Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND: A post marketing surveillance study was conducted to evaluate safety and efficacy of natalizumab in Swedish multiple sclerosis (MS) patients since its introduction in August 2006 until March 2010.

    METHODS: Patients were registered in the web-based Swedish MS-registry at 40 locations and evaluated every 6 months. Adverse events and clinical outcomes were recorded.

    RESULTS: One thousand one hundred and fifty-two patients were included (71.4% female) and 149 patients stopped treatment; the main reason was planned pregnancy. Anti-natalizumab antibodies were found in 4.5% (52 patients) of which 1.6% displayed persistent antibodies. Serious adverse events were rare, but included three cases with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). There were seven fatal cases, probably unrelated to the natalizumab treatment. For relapsing-remitting MS patients (n=901), mean Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS, -10.7%), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS, -20.4%), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS-29, physical -9.9%, psychological -13.3%) and Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT, +10.7%) all showed significant improvements during 24 months of treatment with natalizumab. The Swedish web-based MS quality registry proved to function as a platform for post-marketing MS drug surveillance, providing long-term data regarding drug effects and adverse events beyond clinical trials.

    CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that natalizumab is generally well tolerated and has sustained efficacy for patients with active MS, though the risk of PML is still an important concern.

  • 27.
    Islam-Jakobsson, P.
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Alping, P.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Bjorck, A.
    Fink, K.
    Frisell, T.
    Piehl, F.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Rituximab in multiple sclerosis, a long term safety and efficacy study2015In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 21, p. 574-574Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 28. Johansson, S.
    et al.
    Forsberg, L.
    Hillert, J.
    Nilsson, P.
    Dahle, C.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, J.
    Landtblom, A. -M
    Burman, J.
    Walentin, F.
    Martin, C.
    Piehl, F.
    Olsson, T.
    A Swedish nationwide pharmaco-epidemiological and genetic study of the long-term safety and efficacy of natalizumab2015In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 21, p. 285-286Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 29. Johansson, S.
    et al.
    Forsberg, L.
    Nordin, N.
    Hillert, J.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, J.
    Burman, J.
    Landtblom, A. -M
    Walentin, F.
    Martin, C.
    Nilsson, P.
    Dahle, C.
    Piehl, F.
    Olsson, T.
    The IMSE 2 study: a Swedish nationwide pharmaco-epidemiological and genetic study focused on long-term safety and efficacy of fingolimod2015In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 21, p. 284-285Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 30. Jonsson, L.
    et al.
    Holmen, C.
    Hillert, J.
    Nilsson, P.
    Dahle, C.
    Feltelius, N.
    Sveningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, J.
    Landtblom, A-M
    Burman, J.
    Walentin, F.
    Martin, C.
    Piehl, F.
    Olsson, T.
    A Swedish nationwide pharmaco-epidemiological and genetic study (IMSE) of the long-term safety and efficacy of natalizumab2014In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 20, p. 166-166Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 31. Jonsson, L.
    et al.
    Piehl, F.
    Hillert, J.
    Nilsson, P.
    Dahle, C.
    Feltelius, N.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, J.
    Fagius, J.
    Wallentin, F.
    Martin, C.
    Olsson, T.
    The immunomodulation and multiple sclerosis epidemiology (IMSE) study; a Swedish nationwide pharmaco-epidemiological and genetic study focussed on long-term safety and efficacy of natalizumab (Tysabri)2013In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 19, no 11, Supplement: S, p. 205-205Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 32. Khademi, Mohsen
    et al.
    Dring, Ann
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Gilthorpe, Jonathan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Wuolikainen, Anna
    Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Chemistry.
    Al Nimer, Faiez
    Harris, Robert
    Andersson, Magnus
    Brundin, Lou
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Olsson, Tomas
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Multivariate analysis of inflammatory and neuronal injury markers in cerebrospinal fluid of multiple sclerosis: higher levels are associated with younger age2012In: Journal of Neuroimmunology, ISSN 0165-5728, E-ISSN 1872-8421, Vol. 253, no 1-2, p. 100-100Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 33. Khademi, Mohsen
    et al.
    Dring, Ann M.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Gilthorpe, Jonathan D.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Wuolikainen, Anna
    Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Chemistry.
    Al Nimer, Faiez
    Harris, Robert A.
    Andersson, Magnus
    Brundin, Lou
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Olsson, Tomas
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Intense Inflammation and Nerve Damage in Early Multiple Sclerosis Subsides at Older Age: A Reflection by Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers2013In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 8, no 5, p. e63172-Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Inflammatory mediators have crucial roles in leukocyte recruitment and subsequent central nervous system (CNS) neuroinflammation. The extent of neuronal injury and axonal loss are associated with the degree of CNS inflammation and determine physical disability in multiple sclerosis (MS). The aim of this study was to explore possible associations between a panel of selected cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers and robust clinical and demographic parameters in a large cohort of patients with MS and controls (n = 1066) using data-driven multivariate analysis. Levels of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 13 (CXCL13), osteopontin (OPN) and neurofilament-light chain (NFL) were measured by ELISA in 548 subjects comprising different MS subtypes (relapsing-remitting, secondary progressive and primary progressive), clinically isolated syndrome and persons with other neurological diseases with or without signs of inflammation/infection. Principal component analyses and orthogonal partial least squares methods were used for unsupervised and supervised interrogation of the data. Models were validated using data from a further 518 subjects in which one or more of the four selected markers were measured. There was a significant association between increased patient age and lower levels of CXCL13, MMP9 and NFL. CXCL13 levels correlated well with MMP9 in the younger age groups, but less so in older patients, and after approximately 54 years of age the levels of CXCL13 and MMP9 were consistently low. CXCL13 and MMP9 levels also correlated well with both NFL and OPN in younger patients. We demonstrate a strong effect of age on both inflammatory and neurodegenerative biomarkers in a large cohort of MS patients. The findings support an early use of adequate immunomodulatory disease modifying drugs, especially in younger patients, and may provide a biological explanation for the relative inefficacy of such treatments in older patients at later disease stages.

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  • 34. Luna, Gustavo
    et al.
    Alping, Peter
    Burman, Joachim
    Fink, Katharina
    Fogdell-Hahn, Anna
    Gunnarsson, Martin
    Hillert, Jan
    Langer-Gould, Annette
    Lycke, Jan
    Nilsson, Petra
    Salzer, Jonatan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Vrethem, Magnus
    Olsson, Tomas
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Frisell, Thomas
    Infection Risks Among Patients With Multiple Sclerosis Treated With Fingolimod, Natalizumab, Rituximab, and Injectable Therapies2020In: JAMA Neurology, ISSN 2168-6149, E-ISSN 2168-6157, Vol. 177, no 2, p. 184-191Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Importance: Although highly effective disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis (MS) have been associated with an increased risk of infections vs injectable therapies interferon beta and glatiramer acetate (GA), the magnitude of potential risk increase is not well established in real-world populations. Even less is known about infection risk associated with rituximab, which is extensively used off-label to treat MS in Sweden.

    Objective: To examine the risk of serious infections associated with disease-modifying treatments for MS.

    Design, Setting, and Participants: This nationwide register-based cohort study was conducted in Sweden from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2017. National registers with prospective data collection from the public health care system were used. All Swedish patients with relapsing-remitting MS whose data were recorded in the Swedish MS register as initiating treatment with rituximab, natalizumab, fingolimod, or interferon beta and GA and an age-matched and sex-matched general population comparator cohort were included.

    Exposures: Treatment with rituximab, natalizumab, fingolimod, and interferon beta and GA.

    Main Outcomes and Measures: Serious infections were defined as all infections resulting in hospitalization. Additional outcomes included outpatient treatment with antibiotic or herpes antiviral medications. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated in Cox regressions.

    Results: A total of 6421 patients (3260 taking rituximab, 1588 taking natalizumab, 1535 taking fingolimod, and 2217 taking interferon beta/GA) were included, plus a comparator cohort of 42 645 individuals. Among 6421 patients with 8600 treatment episodes, the mean (SD) age at treatment start ranged from 35.0 (10.1) years to 40.4 (10.6) years; 6186 patients were female. The crude rate of infections was higher in patients with MS taking interferon beta and GA than the general population (incidence rate, 8.9 [95% CI, 6.4-12.1] vs 5.2 [95% CI, 4.8-5.5] per 1000 person-years), and higher still in patients taking fingolimod (incidence rate, 14.3 [95% CI, 10.8-18.5] per 1000 person-years), natalizumab (incidence rate, 11.4 [95% CI, 8.3-15.3] per 1000 person-years), and rituximab (incidence rate, 19.7 [95% CI, 16.4-23.5] per 1000 person-years). After confounder adjustment, the rate remained significantly higher for rituximab (HR, 1.70 [95% CI, 1.11-2.61]) but not fingolimod (HR, 1.30 [95% CI, 0.84-2.03]) or natalizumab (HR, 1.12 [95% CI, 0.71-1.77]) compared with interferon beta and GA. In contrast, use of herpes antiviral drugs during rituximab treatment was similar to that of interferon beta and GA and lower than that of natalizumab (HR, 1.82 [1.34-2.46]) and fingolimod (HR, 1.71 [95% CI, 1.27-2.32]).

    Conclusions and Relevance: Patients with MS are at a generally increased risk of infections, and this differs by treatment. The rate of infections was lowest with interferon beta and GA; among newer treatments, off-label use of rituximab was associated with the highest rate of serious infections. The different risk profiles should inform the risk-benefit assessments of these treatments.

  • 35. Lundin, Anders
    et al.
    Dietrichs, Espen
    Haghighi, Sara
    Göller, Marie-Louise
    Heiberg, Arvid
    Loutfi, Ghada
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Widner, Håkan
    Wiktorin, Klas
    Wiklund, Leif
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Sonesson, Clas
    Waters, Nicholas
    Waters, Susanna
    Tedroff, Joakim
    Efficacy and safety of the dopaminergic stabilizer Pridopidine (ACR16) in patients with Huntington's disease2010In: Clinical neuropharmacology, ISSN 0362-5664, E-ISSN 1537-162X, Vol. 33, no 5, p. 260-264Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Pridopidine shows promise as a treatment for some of the symptoms of HD. In this small-scale study, the most notable effect was improvement in voluntary motor symptoms. Larger, longer-term trials are warranted.

  • 36. Matell, Henrik
    et al.
    Lycke, Jan
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Holmen, Carolina
    Khademi, Mohsen
    Hillert, Jan
    Olsson, Tomas
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Age-dependent effects on the treatment response of natalizumab in MS patients2015In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 21, no 1, p. 48-56Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background:

    Natalizumab is approved for treatment of active forms of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) based on a pivotal phase III study comprising patients aged 18-50 years. The effect of natalizumab has not been specifically studied in older patients.

    Objective:

    We analyzed age-dependent effects on treatment-related outcome measures in 1872 patients, 189 of whom were aged 50 or more, included in the Swedish post-marketing natalizumab surveillance program.

    Methods:

    In three MS centers registry data for patients aged >50 years were validated.

    Results:

    At baseline older patients had longer disease duration, higher Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and lower Symbol Digit Modality Test (SDMT) scores than younger patients. The influence from natalizumab on outcome measures was significantly reduced and 18.7% of patients >50 years stopped treatment for lack of effect compared to 7.7% in the younger age group. At baseline, the cerebrospinal fluid levels of the chemokine CXCL13 and the leukocyte cell count were negatively correlated with age in a smaller subgroup of patients.

    Conclusion:

    These results were in agreement with previous findings suggesting that inflammation is more pronounced in younger patients and therefore the beneficial effects of potent anti-inflammatory treatments are subsiding with older ages.

  • 37. Nordin, N.
    et al.
    Hillert, J.
    Piehl, F.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, J.
    Fagius, J.
    Walentin, F.
    Martin, C.
    Nilsson, P.
    Feltelius, N.
    Dahle, C.
    Olsson, T.
    The immunomodulation and multiple sclerosis epidemiology (IMSE II) study: a Swedish nationwide pharmaco-epidemiological and genetic study focussed on long-term safety and efficacy of fingolimod (Gilenya (R))2013In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 19, no 11, Supplement: S, p. 445-446Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 38.
    Norgren, Niklas
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Microbiology.
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Rosengren, Lars
    Stigbrand, Torgny
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology/Immunchemistry.
    Gunnarsson, Martin
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Neurofilament light and glial fibrillary acidic protein in multiple sclerosis2004In: Neurology, ISSN 0028-3878, E-ISSN 1526-632X, Vol. 63, no 9, p. 1586-1590Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: To evaluate levels of neurofilament light (NFL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in CSF from patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in relation to clinical progress of the disease.

    Methods: CSF levels of NFL and GFAP were determined by sensitive ELISAs in 99 patients with different subtypes of MS, classified in terms of “ongoing relapse” or “clinically stable disease,” and 25 control subjects. Levels were compared with paraclinical data such as immunoglobulin G index and inflammatory cell count in the CSF, and the levels were related to Expanded Disability Status Scale score and progression index at clinical follow-up evaluations later in the disease course.

    Results: NFL and GFAP levels were elevated in MS patients as compared with control subjects (p < 0.001). The NFL levels were higher at relapses, whereas GFAP levels were unaffected. High NFL levels correlated with progression in patients with an active relapse (r = 0.49; p < 0.01) and in clinically stable patients (r = 0.29; p < 0.05). GFAP correlated to progression in the total patient cohort (r = 0.24; p < 0.05). Moreover, a strong correlation between NFL levels and inflammatory cell counts was evident in the group of patients with an ongoing relapse (r = 0.52; p = 0.001).

    Conclusions: CSF levels of neurofilament light and glial fibrillary acidic protein may have prognostic value in multiple sclerosis.

  • 39. Olofsson, Sara
    et al.
    Wickström, Anne
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Glenngard, Anna Huger
    Persson, Ulf
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Effect of treatment with natalizumab on ability to work in people with multiple sclerosis: productivity gain based on direct measurement of work capacity before and after 1 year of treatment2011In: BioDrugs, ISSN 1173-8804, E-ISSN 1179-190X, Vol. 25, no 5, p. 299-306Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Sweden is a high endemic region for multiple sclerosis (MS), a neurologic disorder characterized by repeated inflammatory episodes affecting the CNS. The disease has its peak age of onset at approximately 30 years and affects women twice as often as men. The young age of onset makes MS one of the major causes of reduced capacity to work due to neurologic disease in Western society. Natalizumab (Tysabri(R)) is among the new generation of biologic drugs for the treatment of MS. Clinical studies have demonstrated that natalizumab is an effective treatment for preventing relapses and inflammatory activity.

    Objective: The aim of the study was to estimate the monetary value of treatment with natalizumab on the ability to work in patients with MS in Sweden, based on a direct measurement of weekly hours worked before and after 1 year of treatment with natalizumab.

    Methods: A sample of patients, consisting of all patients who had started treatment with natalizumab during the period June 2007 May 2008, was identified through the Swedish Multiple Sclerosis Register (SMSreg). Data about sex, age, disease severity, and disease duration were collected from the register. Data about type of work and work capacity (number of hours worked per week) were collected retrospectively through a postal questionnaire. The average hours worked per week was estimated at baseline (2 weeks before treatment started) and at follow-up (50 weeks after treatment started), and the change was assigned an economic value using the human capital approach.

    Results: This study showed that after 50 weeks of treatment with natalizumab, people with MS increased their productivity by 3.3 hours per week on average (p<0.01), which corresponded to an economic value of 3216 per person per year (year 2007 values). A shorter duration of illness or being 25-35 years old was significantly associated with a greater productivity gain (p = 0.025 and p = 0.002, respectively). Conclusion: A shorter duration of illness and a lower age at the start of treatment were significantly associated with a greater productivity gain after 50 weeks of treatment with natalizumab, which indicates that it is more beneficial to initiate efficient therapy early in patients with MS.

  • 40. Penner, Iris-Katharina
    et al.
    Sivertsdotter, Eva Catharina
    Celius, Elisabeth G.
    Fuchs, Siegrid
    Schreiber, Karen
    Berko, Sara
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Improvement in fatigue during natalizumab treatment is linked to improvement in depression and day-time sleepiness2015In: Frontiers in Neurology, E-ISSN 1664-2295, Vol. 6, article id UNSP 18Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Fatigue is a frequent symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS) and often interrelated with depression and sleep disorders making symptomatic treatment decisions difficult. In the single-arm, observational phase IVTYNERGY study, relapsing remitting MS patients showed a clinically meaningful decrease in fatigue over 1 year of treatment with natalizumab. Objective: To evaluate whether fatigue improvement might be directly linked to improved depression and day-time sleepiness. Methods: Patients were assessed regarding fatigue, depression, and day-time sleepiness. The relation between changes of the two latter symptoms and changes in fatigue was analyzed. Results: After 1 year of natalizumab treatment, the majority of patients (>92%) remained stable or improved in total, motor, and cognitive fatigue. Proportion of patients without depression increased by 17% while proportions of mildly depressed patients or patients with potential major depression decreased by 5 and 12%, respectively. Proportion of patients classified as not being sleepy increased by 13% while proportions of sleepy and very sleepy patients decreased by 11 and 2%, respectively. Most importantly, improved depression and sleepiness were significantly related to improved fatigue. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the importance of patient-reported outcomes in identifying potential benefits of drug treatment beyond its well-established effects on disease activity and disability progression.

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  • 41. Press, R.
    et al.
    Askmark, H.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Andersen, O.
    Axelson, H. W.
    Stroemberg, U.
    Wåhlin, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics.
    Isaksson, C.
    Johansson, J-EJ.
    Haegglund, H.
    Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a viable treatment option for CIDP2014In: Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, ISSN 0022-3050, E-ISSN 1468-330X, Vol. 85, no 6, p. 618-624Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective Only 70-80% of patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) respond satisfactorily to the established first-line immunomodulatory treatments. Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) has been performed as a last treatment resort in a few therapy-refractory cases with CIDP. We describe the results of AHSCT in 11 consecutive Swedish patients with therapy-refractory CIDP with a median follow-up time of 28 months. Method Case data were gathered retrospectively for AHSCT treatments in 11 patients with CIDP refractory to the first-line immunomodulatory treatments, intravenous high-dose immunoglobulin, corticosteroids and plasma exchange and to one or more second-line treatments used in 10 of the 11 patients. Results The median Inflammatory Neuropathy Cause and Treatment (INCAT) score within 1 month prior to AHSCT was 6 and the Rankin score 4. Total INCAT and Rankin scores improved significantly within 2-6 months after AHSCT and continued to do so at last follow-up. The motor action potential amplitudes (CMAP) improved already within 4 months (median) after AHSCT. Three of the 11 patients relapsed during the follow-up period, requiring retransplantation with AHSCT in one. Eight of the 11 patients maintained drug-free remission upon last follow-up. AHSCT was safe but on the short term associated with a risk of cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr virus reactivation, CMV disease, haemorrhagic cystitis and pancreatitis. Conclusions Our results though hampered by the limited number of patients and the lack of a control group suggest AHSCT to be efficacious in therapy-refractory CIDP, with a manageable complication profile. Confirmation of these results is necessary through randomised controlled trials.

  • 42.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences.
    Granåsen, Gabriel
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Epidemiology and Global Health.
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine.
    Vågberg, Mattias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences. Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital AB, Karolinska Institutet Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm,Sweden.
    Prevention of post-dural puncture headache: a randomized controlled trial2020In: European Journal of Neurology, ISSN 1351-5101, E-ISSN 1468-1331, Vol. 27, no 5, p. 871-877Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and purpose: We investigated 952 subjects undergoing diagnostic lumbar puncture (LP) to study the effects of needle size, needle design and stylet reinsertion on the risk of post‐dural puncture headache (PDPH).

    Methods: This randomized double‐blind study was performed at Umeå University Hospital in Sweden during 2013–2018. Subjects were randomly assigned one of three needles [22 gauge (G) atraumatic, 25G atraumatic and 25G cutting] and stylet reinsertion before needle withdrawal or not. The main outcome measure was PDPH assessed by standardized telephone interview(s) 5 days after the LP, repeated until headache cessation. We used logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for PDPH.

    Results: The mean (SD) age was 51.1 (16.7) years and 53.6% were females. The smaller bore (25G) atraumatic needle incurred a lower risk of headache compared with the larger bore (22G) atraumatic needle [22.0% (69/314) vs. 30.2% (98/324); OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.45–0.93] and compared with the cutting needle [32.8% (103/314); OR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.40–0.82]. Reinserting the stylet before needle withdrawal did not reduce the risk of headache.

    Conclusions: These data suggest that a 25G atraumatic needle is superior to a larger atraumatic needle, and to a same‐sized cutting needle, in preventing PDPH after diagnostic LP. In contrast to one earlier report, this study did not find that stylet reinsertion was effective in preventing PDPH. This study provides class I evidence that a small atraumatic needle decreases the risk of PDPH and that stylet reinsertion does not influence PDPH risk.

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  • 43.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, Jan
    Wickström, Ronny
    Naver, Hans
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Rituximab in paediatric onset multiple sclerosis: a case series2016In: Journal of Neurology, ISSN 0340-5354, E-ISSN 1432-1459, Vol. 263, no 2, p. 322-326Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Paediatric onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) is characterized by high inflammatory activity. No disease modifying treatment has been approved for POMS. The objective of this report was to report the use of rituximab, a B cell depleting monoclonal anti-CD20-antibody, in POMS. This is a retrospective case series at four specialized MS centres in Sweden. Participants were identified through the Swedish MS-registry and our own patient stocks. Data were collected through medical charts review. We identified 14 POMS patients treated with i.v. rituximab 500-1000 mg every 6th to 12th months. Median age at disease onset was 14.7 years, median age at rituximab treatment initiation was 16.5 years, and median treatment duration was 23.6 months. No relapses were reported, and the EDSS scores remained stable or decreased in 13 of 14 cases during rituximab treatment. Beyond 6 months from initiating rituximab treatment, only one new lesion was detected on MRI. No serious AEs were reported. The drug survival was 86 %. Our data indicate that rituximab treatment is safe, effective and well tolerated in children with MS. Nine POMS cases treated with rituximab have previously been published. They had higher disease activity pre-rituximab, but similar safety and efficacy outcomes after treatment. An RCT of rituximab in POMS is warranted.

  • 44.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Rajda, C.
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Vågberg, Mattias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Vecsei, L.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Are we minimizing the patients' risk for headache?: a lumbar puncture practice questionnaire study among European neurologists2015In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 21, p. 733-734Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 45.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Rajda, Cecilia
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Vågberg, Mattias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Vecsei, Laszlo
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    How to minimize the risk for headache?: a lumbar puncture practice questionnaire study2016In: IDEGGYOGYASZATI SZEMLE-CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE, ISSN 0019-1442, Vol. 69, no 11-12, p. 397-402Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background - To lower the risk for post lumbar puncture (LP) headache the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) recommended using small bore atraumatic needles together with stylet reinsertion in a report from 2005. It is unclear whether these recommendations are followed or not. Objectives To investigate the diagnostic LP preferences with respect to the AAN guidelines among neurologists by use of a short online questionnaire, and to review previously published literature on the subject. Results - A total of 284 respondents who performed diagnostic LPs completed the questionnaire. Almost half (41%) answered that they always use atraumatic needles. The most common reason (73%) for not using atraumatic needles was that these were not available. Less than half of the respondents who performed LPs had knowledge about the MN guidelines for diagnostic LPs, and 48-76% agreed with the different recommendations therein. Five previously (1998-2015) published studies investigating LP practice among neurologists were identified. The reported frequency of atraumatic needle use (always/routinely) varied between 2 and 16%. Discussion - Atraumatic needle use was more common in this study compared with previous publications. There is still skepticism regarding some of the MN recommendations, and needle availability appears to be the most important factor preventing atraumatic needle use. To increase the use of atraumatic needles we may perform additional studies investigating their potential benefits, and arrange training sessions for neurologists to increase their awareness and level of comfort with the atraumatic LP technique.

  • 46.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Vågberg, Mattias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lumbar puncture preferences among Swedish neurologists.2015In: Neurological Research, ISSN 0161-6412, E-ISSN 1743-1328, Vol. 37, no 1, p. 92-4Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Lumbar puncture (LP) with cerebrospinal fluid analysis is a common diagnostic tool in neurology, and may be complicated by post-LP headache (PLPHA). The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) has published guidelines for performing diagnostic LPs with the aim to reduce PLPHA risk, but our clinical hands-on experience suggests that these are not followed. We performed a questionnaire study among Swedish neurologists to investigate the acceptance and implementation of the AAN guidelines. Only one-eighth (22/174) of the respondents performed their LPs according to the AAN guidelines. The poor adherence to the AAN guidelines among Swedish neurologists may be due to perceived low credibility, as the current guidelines cite only one study to support the recommendation to use atraumatic needles, and only one study to support the recommendation to replace the stylet before needle withdrawal. An international survey has been posted ( https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/lumbarpuncturesurvey ) to investigate whether the results of this Swedish questionnaire are representative of neurologists worldwide.

  • 47.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Neurofilament light as a prognostic marker in multiple sclerosis2010In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 16, no 3, p. 287-292Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis has a variable prognosis and lacks a reliable laboratory prognostic marker. Our aim in this study was to investigate the association between neurofilament light levels in cerebrospinal fluid in early multiple sclerosis and disease severity at long-term follow-up. Neurofilament light levels in cerebrospinal fluid collected at diagnostic lumbar puncture were measured in 99 multiple sclerosis cases. Clinical data were obtained from 95 out of those at follow-up visits made 14 years (range 8-20 years) after disease onset. Significant correlations between neurofilament light levels and the multiple sclerosis severity score were found for all cases (r = 0.30, p = 0.005), for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis cases (r = 0.47, p < 0.001) and for cases with a recent relapse (r = 0.60, p < 0.001). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, neurofilament light levels >386 ng/L (median value of cases with detectable levels) increased the risk for severe multiple sclerosis fivefold (odds ratio 5.2, 95% confidence interval 1.8-15). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that conversion to secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis was more likely in cases with neurofilament light levels >386 ng/L than in those with neurofilament light levels <60 ng/L (p = 0.01) or 60-386 ng/L (p = 0.03). We conclude that elevated levels of neurofilament light in cerebrospinal fluid collected at diagnostic lumbar puncture were associated with unfavourable prognosis. These data suggest that the neurofilament light level could be used as a prognostic marker in early relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

  • 48.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Neurology.
    Season of birth and multiple sclerosis in Sweden2010In: Acta Neurologica Scandinavica, ISSN 0001-6314, E-ISSN 1600-0404, Vol. 122, no 1, p. 70-73Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study supports previous results suggesting an association between the risk of MS and the season of birth. Decreased exposure to sun in the winter leading to low vitamin D levels during pregnancy is a possible explanation that needs further research.

  • 49.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Svenningsson, Rasmus
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm.
    Alping, Peter
    Novakova, Lenka
    Björck, Anna
    Fink, Katharina
    Islam-Jakobsson, Protik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Malmeström, Clas
    Axelsson, Markus
    Vågberg, Mattias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Sundström, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Lycke, Jan
    Piehl, Fredrik
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm.
    Rituximab in multiple sclerosis: a retrospective observational study on safety and efficacy2016In: Neurology, ISSN 0028-3878, E-ISSN 1526-632X, Vol. 87, no 20, p. 2074-2081Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: To investigate the safety and efficacy of rituximab in multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: In this retrospective uncontrolled observational multicenter study, off-label rituximab-treated patients with MS were identified through the Swedish MS register. Outcome data were collected from the MS register and medical charts. Adverse events (AEs) grades 2-5 according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events were recorded. Results: A total of 822 rituximab-treated patients with MS were identified: 557 relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), 198 secondary progressive MS (SPMS), and 67 primary progressive MS (PPMS). At baseline, 26.2% had contrast-enhancing lesions (CELs). Patients were treated with 500 or 1,000 mg rituximab IV every 6-12 months, during a mean 21.8 (SD 14.3) months. During treatment, the annualized relapse rates were 0.044 (RRMS), 0.038 (SPMS), and 0.015 (PPMS), and 4.6% of patients displayed CELs. Median Expanded Disability Status Scale remained unchanged in RRMS (p = 0.42) and increased by 0.5 and 1.0 in SPMS and PPMS, respectively (p = 0.10 and 0.25). Infusion-related AEs occurred during 7.8% of infusions and most were mild. A total of 89 AEs grades >= 2 (of which 76 infections) were recorded in 72 patients. No case of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy was detected. Conclusions: This is the largest cohort of patients with MS treated with rituximab reported so far. The safety, clinical, and MRI findings in this heterogeneous real-world cohort treated with different doses of rituximab were similar to those reported in previous randomized controlled trials on B-cell depletion therapy in MS. Classification of evidence: This study provides Class IV evidence that for patients with MS, rituximab is safe and effective.

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  • 50.
    Salzer, Jonatan
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Wickstrom, R.
    Piehl, F.
    Lycke, J.
    Svenningsson, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Rituximab in paediatric MS2015In: Multiple Sclerosis Journal, ISSN 1352-4585, E-ISSN 1477-0970, Vol. 21, p. 380-380Article in journal (Other academic)
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