Araki M, Aranami T, Matsuoka T, Nakamura M, Miyake S, Yamamura T.
Source: Multiple Sclerosis Center, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, 4-1-1 Ogawa-Higashi, Kodaira, Tokyo, 187-8551, Japan.
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.
PMID: 22782533 [PubMed – as supplied by publisher]
Mod Rheumatol. 2012 Jul 11. [Epub ahead of print]