Abstract
Background: Chronic demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) are autoimmune conditions that, although rarely fatal, may lead to severe disability. Among these diseases, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO) are particularly important and subject of worldwide research. MS and NMO are chronic types of CNS disease, with recurrent episodes of demyelination. For many years, these two conditions were considered to be only one, but lately it is known that they have different epidemiological, physiopathological and prognostic characteristics. The present study aims at reviewing the specificities of MS and NMO affecting patients before they complete 18 years of age.
Methods: Literature review on data about MS and NMO in patients below the age of 18 years.
Results: There are no clinical trials for any drug used to treat MS and NMO in children or adolescents. Data are mainly on anedoctal cases, case series and recommendations from experts. At present, there is no evidence-based treatment to be recommended for patients with MS and NMO before the age of 18 years.
Conclusion: Despite being a particularly vulnerable population for severe disability in the future, there are no evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of MS and NMO in children and adolescents.
Keywords: Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Pediatric Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO), Central Nervous System (CNS), Neurodegeneration, Demyelination, Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS).
Graphical Abstract
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