Special Investigations - Sankara Nethralaya

Detection of AQP4 antibodiesNeuro Myelitis Optica Vs Multiple SclerosisThe detection of anti-AQP4 antibodies facilitates an earlystratification of NMO and MS, which is highly important due tothe different treatment recommendations.‣ Treatment modalities: MS and NMOMS: Immunomodulatory therapiesInterferon beta (IFN-ß) andglatiramer acetate (GA)NMO: Corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents.Non responders: Plasma exchange ortreatment with rituximabNMO-IgG antibody which is highly specific (>99%) , sensitivity 48-72% depending on the assay used.Jarius, S. & Wildemann, B. AQP4 antibodies in neuromyelitis optica: diagnostic and pathogenetic relevance Nat. Rev. Neurol.6, 383–392 (2010)