[Still no evidence on the efficacy of immunomodulatory therapy in reducing functional impairment in multiple sclerosis].

Abstract

Immunomodulatory therapy reduces the rate of relapse in multiple sclerosis (MS) by 30% in the first year of treatment; the effect in the second year is uncertain. Relapse is caused by the effects of inflammation on conduction in the central nervous system. Disability develops later and is mainly caused by axonal degeneration. It is unknown whether immunomodulatory therapy has a beneficial effect on the development of axonal degeneration. We must determine whether immunosuppression reduces disability in patients with MS before intensified therapy with natalizumab, with its associated risk of severe adverse events, is considered.

• Authors: M Vermeulen
• Journal: Nederlands tijdschrift voor geneeskunde (Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd) Vol. 151 Issue 15 Pg. 850-1 (Apr 14 2007) ISSN: 0028-2162 [Print] Netherlands
• Vernacular Title: Gunstig effect van immuunmodulerende behandeling bij het terugdringen van functionele beperkingen door multiple sclerose nog niet aangetoond.
• PMID: 17472114 (Publication Type: Comment, English Abstract, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Adjuvants, Immunologic
• Interferon-beta

Topics

• Adjuvants, Immunologic (therapeutic use)
• Evidence-Based Medicine
• Humans
• Interferon-beta (therapeutic use)
• Multiple Sclerosis (drug therapy)
• Recurrence
• Treatment Outcome