Epub: Ghezzi et al. Nataluzimab in pediatric multiple sclerosis: results of a cohort of 55 cases. Mult Scler. 2013 Feb 11.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to describe the long-term effects of NA in a large cohort of active ped-MSers.
METHODS: Ped-MSers were treated with NA if in the previous year they had experienced at least two relapses or a severe relapse with incomplete recovery while on immunomodulating treatment, or at least two relapses and new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesions regardless of any prior treatment.
RESULTS: The study included 55 ped-MSers (mean age: 14.4 years, mean number of relapses: 4.4, pre-treatment mean disease duration: 25.5 months). They received a median number of 26 infusions. Three relapses occurred during the follow-up, one female ped-MSer continued to deteriorate in cognitive functioning. Mean Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores decreased from 2.7 to 1.9 at the last visit (p<0.001). During the follow-up the majority of ped-MSers remained free from MRI activity. Transient and mild clinical adverse events occurred in 20 ped-MSers . Mild hematological abnormalities occurred in seven ped-MSers. Anti-JCV antibodies were detected in 20/51 tested ped-MSers.
CONCLUSIONS: NA was well tolerated in all ped-MSers. A strong suppression of disease activity was observed in the majority of ped-MSers during the follow-up.
CoI: multiple
Tysabri and children.. I just don't like the idea. Wish there would be some other medicine / treatment for kids. Tysabri, just not safe enough.
It is reasonably safe in the JCV seronegative group, which is why Biogen-Idec are applying for a first-line license. You need to remember that MS in children can be a bad disease and if they are not responding to 1st line treatments why not give them the option of Natalizumab!
Anon, you have no idea how thankful parents are when their children have something like a normal life because of natalizumab