Neoehrlichiosis associated with ocrelizumab in a patient with multiple sclerosis: A case report

Abstract

Objective: To describe a case of neoehrlichiosis, an emerging opportunistic tick-borne infection, in a patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated with ocrelizumab. Methods: This is a case study. Results: Our patient developed clinical infection over several months while on ocrelizumab and was ultimately diagnosed with neoehrlichiosis, caused by the bacteria Neoehrlichia mikurensis. Resolution of symptoms began within a few days after the initiation of antibiotic treatment. Conclusion: We describe the first probable case of ocrelizumab-associated neoehrlichiosis in a patient with MS. Clinicians should be aware of this potentially debilitating and life-threatening infection in patients receiving CD20-depleting therapy.