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Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare, autoimmune neurological disorder in which peripheral nerve demyelination typically results in weakness, impaired limb sensation, fatigue and pain.1–4 CIDP may adversely affect activities of daily living, with a substantial impact on functional ability and psychological well-being.2–6 Primary treatment goals are reducing symptoms, improving functional status and maintaining long-term remission.7 The […]

Breakthrough Disease in Multiple Sclerosis – The Problem and Treatment Options

Edward J Fox, Eva Havrdova
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Published Online: Feb 19th 2013 European Neurological Review, 2013:24-31 DOI: http://doi.org/10.17925/ENR.2013.08.S1.24
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Abstract

Early intervention with a disease-modifying therapy (DMT) is the most effective strategy for achieving disease control of relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). However, current DMTs for RRMS are only partially effective in reducing disease activity, and approximately two-thirds of patients experience breakthrough disease. Breakthrough disease is characterised as an unacceptable degree of clinical or imaging evidence of disease activity, or progression, despite treatment. No validated definition of what constitutes unacceptable disease activity currently exists and identification of the condition remains challenging. Given the heterogeneous nature of MS, standard protocols will not be applicable to everyone. Management of breakthrough disease should be tailored to the individual, involving close monitoring of both clinical and magnetic resonance imaging parameters. Treatment options include increasing the dose, switching to another first-line therapy, escalation to a second-line therapy and the addition of other agents as combination therapy. There is a lack of evidence-based data to justify such approaches, but given the limited window of opportunity to derive the maximum benefit from DMTs, treatment modification where indicated is crucial. Various algorithms for the identification and treatment of breakthrough disease are discussed, and new and emerging therapies reviewed.

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