Concentrations of B cell-activating factor, aquaporin-4 antibody and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

Abstract

Abstract Objectives To explore the correlations of B cell-activating factor (BAFF), aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-Ab) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) with the severity of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Methods Sixty-eight NMOSD patients were selected as an NMOSD group, and 65 patients with non-inflammatory neurological diseases hospitalized in the same period were selected as a control group. The severity of the disease was assessed using the expanded disability status scale (EDSS). Logistic regression analysis was conducted on the influencing factors for the severity of NMOSD. The correlations of BAFF, AQP4-Ab and BDNF with clinical characteristics were studied by Spearman’s analysis. Results The patients with EDSS score ≥7 points, number of involved spinal segments ≥5 and recurrence ≥3 times had a lower level of BAFF in the cerebrospinal fluid than the level of those with 4 points ≤ EDSS score <7 points, EDSS score <4 points, number of spinal segments <5 and recurrence <3 times (p<0.05). BAFF concentration was negatively correlated with disease duration, EDSS score, number of involved spinal segments and recurrence status (p<0.05). AQP4-Ab concentration was positively correlated with disease duration, EDSS score, number of involved spinal segments and recurrence status (p<0.05). Conclusions The concentrations of BAFF and AQP4-Ab in the cerebrospinal fluid can well predict the progression of NMOSD, correlated with the severity.