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autologous blood and marrow transplantation - Blog Science ...

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456 Chapter 8: Autoimmune Disease<br />

were taking oral ciprofloxacin <strong>and</strong> fluconazole or itraconazole. IVIG was also<br />

given every 2 weeks for a total of four doses, starting on day -7.<br />

Neurologic evaluation<br />

Assessments were made by two neurologists using two scoring systems (EDSS,<br />

SNRS), as previously described. 14<br />

Evaluations were done at entry, after<br />

mobilization, or before SCT, 1 <strong>and</strong> 3 months after stem cell infusion, <strong>and</strong> at 3month<br />

intervals thereafter. Serial MRIs were also performed along with the clinical<br />

assessments. For definition of responses, we have modified the criteria we<br />

described previously. 14<br />

Improvement in disability was indicated by reduction of<br />

EDSS of >1 points, or a gain of at least 10 SNRS points, persisting for at least 3<br />

months. Progression of the disease was defined as a gain of >1 EDSS points if the<br />

baseline score was below 5.5, or as a gain of only 0.5 point if the baseline score<br />

was above 5. These changes should be shown to persist for as long as 6 months. A<br />

change of

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