Fingolimod to treat severe multiple sclerosis after natalizumab-associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy: a valid option?

Mult Scler. 2014 Apr;20(4):505-9. doi: 10.1177/1352458513516530. Epub 2013 Dec 23.

Abstract

We report two cases of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with natalizumab-associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Severe MS relapses occurred between four and five months after natalizumab discontinuation. After failure of immunomodulatory treatment, both patients were treated with fingolimod. The outcome was positive on clinical and MRI disease activity, without worsening of the progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. These observations suggest that using fingolimod for severe multiple sclerosis after natalizumab-associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy may be an option, under close clinical and radiological monitoring.

Keywords: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy; fingolimod; natalizumab; rebound.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Fingolimod Hydrochloride
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Leukoencephalopathy, Progressive Multifocal / chemically induced*
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting / drug therapy*
  • Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting / pathology
  • Natalizumab
  • Propylene Glycols / therapeutic use*
  • Sphingosine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Sphingosine / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Natalizumab
  • Propylene Glycols
  • Fingolimod Hydrochloride
  • Sphingosine