People who do not show signs of multiple sclerosis (MS) or MS symptoms but have abnormalities in the brain or spinal cord called lesions could benefit from this new drug treatment.

Teriflunomide, a novel medication, could potentially postpone the onset of initial symptoms in individuals whose MRI scans indicate a predisposition towards multiple sclerosis (MS), despite the absence of any current symptoms.

The preliminary findings of this study were released today and are scheduled for presentation at the American Academy of Neurology’s prestigious 75th Annual Meeting. This event will take place in-person in Boston, as well as virtually, between April 22nd and 27th, 2023.

Radiologically Isolated Syndrome

Termed “radiologically isolated syndrome,” this condition is identified in individuals who exhibit no signs of MS but possess brain or spinal cord anomalies, known as lesions, which are strikingly similar to those observed in MS patients.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly targets myelin, the fatty white substance responsible for insulating and safeguarding the nerves. Those suffering from MS often experience symptoms such as weariness, numbness, a tingling sensation, or challenges in mobility.

Christine Lebrun Frenay, MD, a specialist at the University Hospital of Nice, France, and an esteemed member of the American Academy of Neurology, noted that an increasing number of individuals are undergoing brain scans for a variety of reasons, including headaches or cranial injuries. As a result, a growing number of MS cases are being identified, with many patients subsequently developing the condition.

“The sooner a person can be treated for MS, the greater the chances of delaying damage to the myelin, which decreases the risk of permanent neurologic impairment and debilitating symptoms.”

Early MS Intervention with Teriflunomide

In the current study, researchers examined 89 individuals diagnosed with radiologically isolated syndrome. The participants were divided into two groups, with one group receiving a daily dose of 14 milligrams of teriflunomide, while the other group was given a placebo. The study spanned a period of up to two years.

Throughout the course of the investigation, a notable difference emerged between the two groups. Among those administered teriflunomide, only eight individuals exhibited symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), while 20 participants from the placebo group reported such symptoms.

When accounting for additional variables that could influence the likelihood of symptom development, the research team discovered that the group treated with teriflunomide experienced a significantly reduced risk of presenting initial MS symptoms. In fact, their risk was 72% lower compared to those who received the placebo.

The results of the study “suggest that early intervention with teriflunomide may be beneficial to those diagnosed with radiologically isolated syndrome, the presymptomatic phase of MS,” Lebrun Frenay adds.

However, more studies with bigger populations are required to support these results. Also, it’s critical that doctors exercise caution when utilizing their knowledge of MRI to identify this illness, choosing only those patients who are at high risk of developing MS and avoiding the creation of more MRI misdiagnoses, according to the author.

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