Devic's neuromyelitis optica: a prospective study of seven patients treated with prednisone and azathioprine.
Seven newly diagnosed patients with Devic's neuromyelitis optica were treated with long-term prednisone and azathioprine, and were followed every 2 months for at least 18 months. Their Expanded Disability Status Scale score improved significantly (mean at baseline, 9; mean at 18 months, 3; p < 0.005), and no relapses occurred for more than 18 months. Multicenter controlled studies are needed to prove the efficacy of this therapeutic regimen.
Department of Neurology, The University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque 87131, USA.
R N
RN
Mandler
W
W
Ahmed
J E
JE
Dencoff
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001379:Azathioprine / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009471:Neuromyelitis Optica / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D011241:Prednisone / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012008:Recurrence
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D001379:Azathioprine; D011241:Prednisone