Publication:

Clinical and treatment patterns in neuromyelitis optica: a retrospective study from a single centre

Background The aim of the study was to study the different presentations, treatment patterns and relapses on therapy in patients of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).

Methods This is a retrospective, observational study in a tertiary hospital where Demographics, clinical manifestations at onset and at follow up and relapses, serum anti Aquaporin 4 antibody status, first line immunomodulatory therapy which was initiated and Relapses on first line therapy were noted.

Results Demographics and clinical presentation was largely similar to published data. 80% patients presented with LETM/ON at onset. Ten patients relapsed on oral therapy and trend was to shift from oral therapy to RTX after relapse on oral agent. No relapses were noted on RTX.

Conclusions Unaffordability and apprehension towards injections and cost were the factors affecting IMT decision, so majority received oral agents Aza/ MMF as first line therapy while remaining patients on oral therapy remained relapse free.