scholarly journals Infectious Complications of Multiple Sclerosis Therapies: Implications for Screening, Prophylaxis, and Management

2018 ◽  
Vol 5 (8) ◽  
Author(s):  
David J Epstein ◽  
Jeffrey Dunn ◽  
Stan Deresinski

Abstract Multiple sclerosis therapies include interferons, glatiramer, and multiple immunosuppressive drugs. Discerning infectious risks of immunosuppressive drugs requires understanding their mechanisms of action and analyzing interventional studies and postmarketing observational data. Though identical immunosuppressive therapies are sometimes used in non-neurologic conditions, infectious risks may differ in this population. Screening for and treatment of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection should be prioritized for patients receiving alemtuzumab; ocrelizumab is likely not associated with an increased risk of TB. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation can be devastating for patients treated with ocrelizumab and alemtuzumab, whereas the small molecule oral agents do not likely pose substantial risk of HBV. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy is a particular concern with natalizumab. Alemtuzumab, and possibly natalizumab and fingolimod, risks herpes virus reactivation and may warrant prophylaxis. Unusual opportunistic infections have been described. Vaccination is an important tool in preventing infections, though vaccine timing and contraindications can be complex.

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (21) ◽  
pp. 5201
Author(s):  
Lorenzo Onorato ◽  
Mariantonietta Pisaturo ◽  
Clarissa Camaioni ◽  
Pierantonio Grimaldi ◽  
Alessio Vinicio Codella ◽  
...  

Reactivation of overt or occult HBV infection (HBVr) is a well-known, potentially life-threatening event which can occur during the course of immunosuppressive treatments. Although it has been described mainly in subjects receiving therapy for oncological or hematological diseases, the increasing use of immunosuppressant agents in non-oncological patients observed in recent years has raised concerns about the risk of reactivation in several other settings. However, few data can be found in the literature on the occurrence of HBVr in these populations, and few clear recommendations on its management have been defined. The present paper was written to provide an overview of the risk of HBV reactivation in non-neoplastic patients treated with immunosuppressive drugs, particularly for rheumatological, gastrointestinal, dermatological and neurological diseases, and for COVID-19 patients receiving immunomodulating agents; and to discuss the potential strategies for prevention and treatment of HBVr in these settings.


Viruses ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (9) ◽  
pp. 858 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alessandra Zannella ◽  
Massimo Marignani ◽  
Paola Begini

It is well known that hepatitis B virus reactivation (HBVr) can occur among patients undergoing treatment for hematological malignancies (HM). The evaluation of HBVr risk in patients undergoing immunosuppressive treatments is a multidimensional process, which includes conducting an accurate clinical history and physical examination, consideration of the virological categories, of the medication chosen to treat these hematological malignancies and the degree of immunosuppression induced. Once the risk of reactivation has been defined, it is crucial to adopt adequate management strategies (should reactivation occur). The purpose of treatment is to prevent dire clinical consequences of HBVr such as acute/fulminant hepatitis, and liver failure. Treatment will be instituted according to the indications and evidence provided by current international recommendations and to prevent interruption of lifesaving anti-neoplastic treatments. In this paper, we will present the available data regarding the risk of HBVr in this special population of immunosuppressed patients and explore the relevance of effective prevention and management of this potentially life-threatening event. A computerized literature search was performed using appropriate terms to discover relevant articles. Current evidence supports the policy of universal HBV testing of patients scheduled to undergo treatment for hematological malignancies, and clinicians should be aware of the inherent risk of viral reactivation among the different virological categories and classes of immunosuppressive drugs.


Author(s):  
Alessandro Re ◽  
Chiara Cattaneo ◽  
Giuseppe Rossi

Patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus are at increased risk for developing both non Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL). Even if this risk has decreased for NHL after the introduction of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), they remain the most common AIDS-related cancer in the developed world. They are almost always of B-cell origin, and some specific lymphoma types are more common than others. Some of these lymphoma types can occur in both HIV-uninfected and infected patients, while others preferentially develop in the context of AIDS. HIV-associated lymphoma differ from lymphoma in the HIV negative population in that they more often present with advanced disease, systemic symptoms, and extranodal involvement and are frequently associated with oncogenic viruses (EBV and/or HHV-8). Before the introduction of cART, most of these patients could not tolerate the treatment strategies routinely employed in the HIV-negative population. The widespread use of cART has allowed for the delivery of full-dose and dose-intensive chemotherapy regimens with improved outcomes that nowadays can be compared to those seen in non-HIV infected patients. However, a great deal of attention should be paid to opportunistic infections and other infectious complications, cART-chemotherapy interactions, and potential cumulative toxicity. In the context of relatively sparse prospective and randomized trials, the optimal treatment of AIDS-related lymphomas remains a challenge, particularly in patients with severe immunosuppression. This paper will address epidemiology, pathogenesis, and therapeutic strategies in HIV-associated NHL and HL.


2015 ◽  
Vol 21 (14) ◽  
pp. 1823-1832 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rebekka Kohlmann ◽  
Anke Salmen ◽  
Andrew Chan ◽  
Cornelius Knabbe ◽  
Jürgen Diekmann ◽  
...  

Background: Serious adverse drug reactions of disease-modifying drugs in multiple sclerosis (MS) therapy may include enhanced susceptibility to reactivation of neurotropic herpes viruses like varicella-zoster virus (VZV) and the John Cunningham (JC) polyomavirus. Objective: Because symptomatic reactivation of these viruses are rare events, we determined the incidence of rises in anti-VZV IgG antibody levels as a potential marker for enhanced susceptibility to subclinical and symptomatic reactivation of neurotropic viruses. Methods: Anti-VZV IgG levels were measured in paired serum samples taken 6–8 months apart from natalizumab-treated MS patients, healthy blood donors and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected patients. Results: The incidence of significant rises in anti-VZV IgG levels in natalizumab-treated MS patients was 4.26 per 100 person-years, which was significantly higher than in healthy blood donors. Retrospective evaluation of the available medical records of patients with rises of anti-VZV IgG levels did not reveal herpes zoster (i.e. shingles) manifestations. Conclusions: The increased incidence of significant rises of anti-VZV IgG levels in natalizumab-treated MS patients might indicate an association of natalizumab treatment of MS with an elevated risk of a subclinical VZV reactivation and/or reinfection events. Whether this is predictive of an increased risk of herpes zoster or even symptomatic reactivation of other neurotropic viruses remains to be determined in larger prospective studies.


Author(s):  
Alessandra Zannella ◽  
Massimo Marignani ◽  
Paola Begini

It is well known that the event of hepatitis B virus reactivation can occur among patients undergoing treatment for hematological malignancies. In this paper we will present the available data regarding the risk of hepatitis B virus reactivation in this special population of immunosuppressed patients and explore the relevance of an accurate prevention and management of this condition. A computerized literature search was performed using appropriate terms arrangement, including English-written literature only or additional relevant articles. The evaluation of hepatitis B reactivation risk is a multidimensional process, which includes conducting an accurate clinical and physical history, considering the virological categories, the knowledge of the medication chosen to treat these hematological malignancies and the induced grade of immunosuppression. Adopting adequate preventive strategies and surveillance according to the current international recommendations is crucial to prevent HBVr and its dire clinical consequences (hepatitis, liver failure, interruption of lifesaving anti-neoplastic treatments). Universal HBV screening of patients scheduled to undergo treatment for hematological malignancies should be the chosen policy, and clinicians should be aware of the inherent risk of viral reactivation among the different virological categories and the classes of immunosuppressive drugs.


2011 ◽  
Vol 18 (6) ◽  
pp. 909-911 ◽  
Author(s):  
A Kwiatkowski ◽  
J Gallois ◽  
N Bilbault ◽  
G Calais ◽  
A Mackowiak ◽  
...  

In this case report we describe the first non-fatal herpes simplex virus encephalitis (HSE) case with natalizumab for multiple sclerosis (MS). A 36-year-old woman, previously treated with immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive drugs for MS, developed acute encephalitis after 6 monthly natalizumab perfusions. Brain imaging demonstrated suggestive bi-temporal lesions. Herpes simplex virus type-1 DNA was detected in cerebrospinal fluid. The patient improved gradually after a 21-day course of intravenous acyclovir, but neuropsychiatric changes remained 5 months later. Our non-fatal case of HSE and other reported cases of herpes infections provide evidence of an increased risk with natalizumab and point to the need for clinicians to maintain awareness.


2018 ◽  
Vol 4 (1) ◽  
pp. 205521731775220 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carlos Navas ◽  
Carlos A Torres-Duque ◽  
Joe Munoz-Ceron ◽  
Carlos Álvarez ◽  
Juan R García ◽  
...  

Background Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory and neurodegenerative demyelinating disease. Current treatment of multiple sclerosis focuses on the use of immunomodulatory, immunosuppressant, and selective immunosuppressant agents. Some of these medications may result in high risk of opportunistic infections including tuberculosis. Objective The purpose of this study was to obtain consensus from a panel of neurologists, pulmonologists, infectious disease specialists, and epidemiology experts regarding the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of latent tuberculosis in patients with multiple sclerosis. Methods A panel of experts in multiple sclerosis and tuberculosis was established. The methodological process was performed in three phases: definition of questions, answer using Delphi methodology, and the discussion of questions not agreed. Results Tuberculosis screening is suggested when multiple sclerosis drugs are prescribed. The recommended tests for latent tuberculosis are tuberculin and interferon gamma release test. When an anti-tuberculosis treatment is indicated, monitoring should be performed to determine liver enzyme values with consideration of age as well as comorbid conditions such as a history of alcoholism, age, obesity, concomitant hepatotoxic drugs, and history of liver disease. Conclusion Latent tuberculosis should be considered in patients with multiple sclerosis who are going to be treated with immunomodulatory and immunosuppressant medications. Transaminase level monitoring is required on a periodic basis depending on clinical and laboratory characteristics. In addition to the liver impairment, other side effects should be considered when Isoniazid is prescribed.


Author(s):  
Russell J. McCulloh ◽  
Steven M. Opal

Immunosuppressive drugs are among the fastest-growing category of drugs in medicine today, both in terms of new medication development and in terms of use. Glucocorticoids, calcineurin inhibitors, and biological agents, among others, are used in a variety of diseases. . Although often of great benefit to patients, immunosuppressive agents also pose significant long-term risks for opportunistic infection. These drugs can also blunt normal host responses to infection, and patients receiving immunosuppressive medications are at high risk for severe illness, sepsis, and death from opportunistic infections. Knowledge of immunosuppressive agents, their mechanisms of action, effects on the immune system, and commonly-associated infectious complications plays an instrumental role in guiding appropriate diagnostic and treatment plans for immunosuppressed patients. This chapter reviews the most commonly-used immunosuppressive agents today, and provides the reader with the specific effects these medications can have on a patient’s immune system and the potential infectious agents of concern associated with their prolonged use.


2008 ◽  
Vol 50 (6) ◽  
pp. 327-332 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vítor Yamashiro Rocha Soares ◽  
Carlos Eduardo Pinheiro Lúcio Filho ◽  
Lorena Ibiapina Mendes de Carvalho ◽  
Amélia Maria Marinho de Morais e Silva ◽  
Kelsen Dantas Eulálio

The AIDS epidemic has become a worldwide phenomenon of enormous magnitude and extension, deeply transforming medical practices and public health initiatives. This retrospective survey aimed to analyze clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with HIV/AIDS admitted to the Institute of Tropical Diseases Natan Portella, Teresina, Piauí, Brazil, from January, 2001 through December, 2004. Of the 828 patients, 43% were from other states and 71.3% were men. Average patient age was 35.4 ± 11.5 years-old and 85.5% were illiterate or had primary education. The main form of exposure to HIV was heterosexual behavior (54.1%), while injectable drug use was confirmed by only 2.7% of registered cases. The most frequent infectious complications were candidiasis (42.4%) and pneumocystosis (22.2%). Sixty-eight cases (8.2%) of visceral leishmaniasis were registered. Using multivariate analysis, individuals aged over 40 years-old, patients with active tuberculosis, Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia and central nervous system cryptococcosis showed increased risk of death. In this study, young male adults with low educational levels predominated and the most frequent opportunistic infections were candidiasis and pneumocystosis.


Blood ◽  
2008 ◽  
Vol 112 (11) ◽  
pp. 2587-2587 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hatoon Ezzat ◽  
Matthew C Cheung ◽  
Lisa K Hicks ◽  
Kevin C Murphy ◽  
Chantal S Leger ◽  
...  

Abstract Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) occurs in HIV-infected individuals more frequently than in the HIV-negative population and the incidence is rising. Patients (pts) with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in HIV appear to have improved outcomes if they receive HAART with chemotherapy (CT). ABVD is standard CT for HL and is frequently administered with HAART in pts with HIV-HL. However, some components of the ABVD regimen may interact with antiretroviral (ARV) medications to alter metabolism and increase toxicity. In particular, vinblastine (VBL) is metabolized by CYP3A4 and protease inhibitors, particularly ritonavir (RTV), appear to inhibit this cytochrome potentially leading to higher VBL exposure. Little definitive information is available regarding how interactions might affect clinical outcome. We conducted a retrospective review of 36 pts with HIV-related HL to identify the frequency of neurotoxicity (NT), hematologic toxicity (HT), and lung toxicity (LT), to identify risk factors for severe (grade III–IV) toxicity, and to determine its clinical significance. Clinical data were collected from the CFE database and by chart review from 3 centers. The median age at HL diagnosis (dx) was 41 (range 29–66) years and 34 (94%) were male. HL was advanced stage in 28 (78%). Hasenclever score could be calculated in 23 pts and was 0–4 and ≥5 in 15 and 8 pts respectively. ECOG PS was 0–1 in 13 and ≥2 in 8 (n=21). HIV risk factor was: sexual, n=21 and other, n=5 (n=26). Median CD4 count at HL dx was 210 (2–660) cells/ul (n=31). Median HIV viral load (VL) was undetectable (<50; range <50->500,000) copies/ml (n=25). Hepatitis B and C coinfection was present in 8 and 7 pts respectively (n=29). Prior AIDS was present in 23, all opportunistic infections. Twenty-four pts received HAART with CT. Primary HL CT was: ABVD, n=29 (81%); MOPP/ABV, n=4 (11%); palliative, n=3 (8%). G-CSF was used in 22 pts. All pts received prophylaxis for PCP and 3 for HSV/VZV. HAART included 17 Arts in numerous combinations. Infectious complications were: bacterial infection, n=6; febrile neutropenia, n=4; HSV, n=3; PCP, n=1. HT occurred in 21 (75%) of 28 assessable pts and was grade 3–4 in 18 (64%; 18 and 15 were on HAART, respectively). NT occurred in 14 (50%) pts and was grade 3–4 in 6 (21%; 13 and 5 on HAART respectively, n=28). Of 6 cases of severe NT, 3 were autonomic neuropathy with pseudobowel obstruction that in 1 pt resulted in perforation. Bleomycin LT occurred in 3 pts (n=26). CT dose reduction (DR) of ≥25% in ≥1 agent was required in 9 pts (n=26). Factors associated with grade 3–4 HT were: receiving RTV, p=0.04, HR 2.9 (95% CI 1.1–7.4); and receiving lopinovir (LPV), p=0.02, HR 7.0 (2.3–21.3) and for any HT were: RTV, p=0.004, HR 3.1 (1.3–7.3); emtricitabine, p=0.01, HR 4.8 (1.4–11.6); and LPV, p=0.04, HR 4.4 (1.6–12.1). Factors for grade 3–4 NT were: LPV, p=0.05, HR 10.8 (2.0–59.5) and for any NT was: RTV, p=0.01, HR 4.0 (1.3–12.1). Fourteen pts received RTV and of 8 receiving LPV, 7 received LPV with RTV (p=0.007). At a median follow-up of 15.3 (0.1–154.8) months (mo) 25 pts (69%) are alive. The median overall survival (OS) for all pts was 44.5 (2–154.8) mo and there was no difference in OS by baseline features or the occurrence of HT or NT. However, CT dose reduction was associated with inferior OS (p=0.04, HR 3.9 [1.0–15.7]); although only 1 of 9 deaths was from HL progression; others were: infectious, n=6; and unrelated, n=2. In conclusion, pts with HIV-HL appear to experience a significantly increased incidence of NT compared to rates reported in non-HIV HL pts. In contrast, rates of HT and LT appear to be similar to those in non-HIV HL. The use of RTV or LPV during CT appeared to be associated with an increased risk of NT, suggesting a clinically significant interaction between these ARV agents and CT, particularly VBL. Prospective studies to devise a rational dosing strategy using measurements of ARV and/or CT levels are warranted.


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