Clinical improvement in a patient with neuromyelitis optica following therapy with the anti-IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody tocilizumab.
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a disabling autoimmune disease associated with an elevation of anti-aquaporin 4 (AQP4) autoantibodies. Here, we present a case with NMO who responded to monthly administration of the anti-IL-6 receptor antibody tocilizumab. The treatment rapidly reduced the elevated numbers of plasmablasts and anti-AQP4 autoantibodies in the patient. Furthermore, neuropathic pain and disability scores gradually improved. Tocilizumab may be considered as a therapeutic option for NMO.
Multiple Sclerosis Center, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, 4-1-1 Ogawa-Higashi, Kodaira, Tokyo 187-8551, Japan.
Manabu
M
Araki
Toshimasa
T
Aranami
Takako
T
Matsuoka
Masakazu
M
Nakamura
Sachiko
S
Miyake
Takashi
T
Yamamura
D000328:Adult; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009471:Neuromyelitis Optica / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D000093242:Interleukin-6 Inhibitors
D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D000093242:Interleukin-6 Inhibitors; C502936:tocilizumab