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Long-Term Efficacy of Ocrelizumab as First-Line Treatment for Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis

Nine-year follow-up data from open-label extension of the Phase III clinical trials of ocrelizumab show that, although the efficacy of ocrelizumab was maintained throughout the duration of the study, patients who were treated with ocrelizumab from the beginning of the Phase III trials did better than the patients who were on subcutaneous (SC) interferon β-1a initially and were switched to ocrelizumab at the onset of the open-label extension period.

Small Fiber Neuropathy in Post-COVID Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

This study examines small fiber neuropathy (SFN) in post-COVID patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). While ME/CFS patients reported more SFN symptoms, objective testing showed limited diagnostic value beyond heat/cold detection differences.

Should Thrombolytic Drugs Be Added to Mechanical Thrombectomy in Acute Stroke?

Two recent trials from China studied the effect of post-thrombectomy, intra-arterial thrombolysis on neurological outcomes. One study used tenecteplase and the other used urokinase. Both studies showed a trend toward improvement that was not statistically significant, and there was an increase in brain hemorrhage. The benefit of adjunctive thrombolysis with mechanical thrombectomy is uncertain and requires more study.

Treating Hereditary TTR Amyloid Polyneuropathy with Patisiran

A five-year study on patisiran for hereditary transthyretin (TTR) amyloid polyneuropathy found that 65% of patients had stable or improved neuropathy, with better outcomes linked to early treatment. Despite efficacy, 19.4% of patients died. The study underscores the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in managing this progressive disease.

Determinants of Long-Term Outcome After Concussion

This cohort study of U.S. veterans found that mild traumatic brain injuries occurring alongside psychological trauma are associated with long-term post-concussive symptoms and disability. The authors postulate that the traumatic context contributes to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder, which may in turn potentiate long-term sequelae.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Tai Chi for Older Adults with Sleep Disorders and MCI

This study showed improvement in sleep and cognitive endpoints in patients with sleep disorders and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) treated with a combination of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and tai chi chuan.

Transfusion Therapy in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

The SAHARA trial evaluated liberal vs. restrictive red blood cell transfusion strategies in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients with anemia. No significant difference in neurological outcomes at 12 months was found. Findings add to existing uncertainty regarding transfusion thresholds in SAH, highlighting the need for further research.

Diagnosis and Outcome of Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a rare disorder characterized by thunderclap headaches and cerebral vasoconstriction resolving within 90 days. A retrospective study of 80 patients found favorable outcomes, with most treated using calcium channel blockers. However, challenges in RCVS diagnosis and classification may affect reported outcomes.

Clinical, Biological, and Imaging Features of Intravascular Large B-Cell Lymphoma

A multicenter, retrospective cohort study of 17 patients with pathology-proven intravascular lymphoma involving the central nervous system identified “red flag” clinical features, imaging patterns, and cerebrospinal fluid characteristics that may help expedite the diagnosis of this rare, complex, and deceptive disease.

ABCD² Score as a Predictor of Three-Year Stroke Risk

This retrospective cohort study using the National Patient Registry in Denmark analyzed a three-year follow-up period following a transient ischemic attack, looking at the rate of recurrent stroke and mortality. The patients were divided into low risk (ABCD² score 0-3) and high risk (ABCD2 score ≥ 4). The stroke rate was 6% in the high-risk group and 4% in the low-risk group.