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.
Mandler
R N
RN
Department of Neurology, The University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque 87131, USA.
Ahmed
W
W
Dencoff
J E
JE
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