Clinical improvement in a patient with neuromyelitis optica following therapy with the anti-IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody tocilizumab

Abstract

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.

Keywords

TocilizumabMedicineNeuromyelitis opticaAutoantibodyAquaporin 4RheumatologyAntibodyInternal medicineMonoclonalMonoclonal antibodyImmunologyGastroenterologyDisease

Affiliated Institutions

National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry JP

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Publication Info

Year: 2012
Type: article
Volume: 23
Issue: 4
Pages: 827-831
Citations: 104
Access: Closed

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APA Style

                            
                                
                                    M. Araki, 
                                
                                    Toshimasa Aranami, 
                                
                                    Takako Matsuoka
                                
                                et al.
                            
                            (2012). 
                            Clinical improvement in a patient with neuromyelitis optica following therapy with the anti-IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody tocilizumab. 
                            Modern Rheumatology
                            , 23
                            (4)
                            , 827-831.
                            https://doi.org/10.1007/s10165-012-0715-9
                        

Identifiers

DOI: 10.1007/s10165-012-0715-9