brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD)
Treatment of NMOSD
Corticosteroids Plasma exchange Medications that suppress the immune system There is no cure for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. However, treatments can stop episodes, control symptoms, prevent episodes from recurring, and may help delay disability in the short term. A corticosteroid (such asmethylprednisolone) and a medication that suppresses the immune system (an immunosuppressant, such asazathioprine) are often used to stop and prevent episodes. (a Monoclonal Antibodies used as an immunosuppressant) may be used to reduce the number of abnormal antibodies and to control the disorder. (another monoclonal antibody) can sometimes help. This medication suppresses complement, which is a component of the immune system. Side effects of this medication include life-threatening Meningococcal Infections , pneumonia, upper respiratory infections, and headache. Doctors usually give people who take Satralizumabandinebilizumab(both monoclonal antibodies) can be used to treat neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder when aquaporin-4 antibodies are present. People taking these medications are closely monitored for infections, such as urinary tract and respiratory infections. Plateletpheresis (platelet donation) may help people who do not respond to corticosteroids. For this treatment, blood is removed, then abnormal antibodies are removed, and the blood is returned to the person. Symptom control is similar to that for multiple sclerosis. 