Clinica de Esclerosis Multiple, Servicio de Neurologia Hospital Santo Tomas, Panama. Universidad Interamericana de Panama

Author Of 1 Presentation

Neuromyelitis Optica and Anti-MOG Disease Poster Presentation

P0731 - Multiple sclerosis and NMOSD testing and treatment availability in Latin America (ID 1311)

Speakers
Presentation Number
P0731
Presentation Topic
Neuromyelitis Optica and Anti-MOG Disease

Abstract

Background

To be aware of the availability of multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders diseases (NMOSD) diagnosis and treatment is a highly relevant point to better understand how to treat affected patients in our region.

Objectives

The objective of the study was to describe the availability of diagnosis tests and treatment for MS and NMOSD in Latin America (LATAM).

Methods

a survey instrument designed and piloted by the authors was used in a sample of physicians from all LATAM countries. The goal of the survey was to understand 1) imaging tests available for diagnosing MS and NMOSD and barriers in its acquisition; 2) diagnostic laboratory tests available for diagnosing MS and NMOSD and barriers; 3) treatments available for MS and NMOSD in the acute and chronic phases of diseases

Results

Responses were received from 80 physicians from all LATAM countries. AQP4-ab test was available in 54% of the countries and MOG-ab test in 42%. MRI was available in 93% of the countries. 100% of countries had the availability to use high doses of intravenous methilprednisolone, oral steroids, plasmapheresis as well as intravenous immunoglbulins for relapses. For NMOSD, 93% of the countries had the possibility to use azathioprine and mycophenolate mofetil and 87 % rituximab. Eculizumab and satralizumab was not available in any country. In MS, 93 % of countries had the availability of IFN beta, 69% glatiramer acetate, 75% teriflunomide, 93% fingolimod, 69% dimetyl-fumarate, 75% cladribine, 69% Natalizumab, 93% ocrelizumab and 81% alemtuzumab. Siponimod was not available in any conutry of the region. The most common challenge and barrier identified was the cost of medications to the health sector followed by the inability to consistently obtain medicine supplies for affected patients. MS treatments was completely covered by the health care system in most of the surveyed countries.

Conclusions

the present study allows an understanding of the delivery of care for MS and NMOSD in the region. This information will allow us to make health care policies in affected patients that will improve the care in LATAM.

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