In:
Multiple Sclerosis Journal, SAGE Publications, Vol. 25, No. 5 ( 2019-04), p. 678-686
Abstract:
Monitoring neuronal injury remains one key challenge in early relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients. Upon axonal damage, neurofilament – a major component of the neuro-axonal cytoskeleton – is released into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and subsequently peripheral blood. Objective: To investigate the relevance of serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) for acute and chronic axonal damage in early RRMS. Methods: sNfL levels were determined in 74 patients (63 therapy-naive) with recently diagnosed clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) or RRMS using Single Molecule Array technology. Standardized 3 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at baseline and 1–3 consecutive follow-ups (42 patients; range: 6–37 months). Results: Baseline sNfL correlated significantly with T2 lesion volume ( r = 0.555, p 〈 0.0001). There was no correlation between baseline sNfL and age, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score or other calculated MRI measures. However, T2 lesion volume increased ( r = 0.67, p 〈 0.0001) and brain parenchymal volume decreased more rapidly in patients with higher baseline sNfL ( r = −0.623, p = 0.0004). Gd-enhancing lesions correlated positively with sNfL levels. Initiation of disease-modifying treatment led to a significant decrease in sNfL levels. Conclusion: sNfL indicates acute inflammation as demonstrated by correlation with Gd+ lesions. It is a promising biomarker for neuro-axonal damage in early multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, since higher baseline sNfL levels predicted future brain atrophy within 2 years.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
1352-4585
,
1477-0970
DOI:
10.1177/1352458518765666
Language:
English
Publisher:
SAGE Publications
Publication Date:
2019
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2008225-3
Permalink