The absence of antibodies in longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis may predict a more favourable prognosis

Abstract

Background: Isolated first episodes of longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) have typically been associated with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) or myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody–associated disease (MOGAD). However, in some cases, serological testing and screening for other aetiologies are negative, a condition referred to as double seronegative longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (dsLETM). Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate comparative outcomes of dsLETM, MOGAD-LETM and NMOSD-LETM. Methods: Cohort study of LETM cases seen in the UK NMOSD Highly Specialised Service between January 2008 and March 2022. Results: LETM = 87 cases were identified (median onset age = 46 years (15–85); median follow-up = 46 months (1–144); 47% NMOSD-LETM = 41 (aquaporin-4 antibodies (AQP4-IgG) positive = 36), 20% MOGAD-LETM = 17 and 33% dsLETM = 29). Despite similar Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) at nadir, last EDSS was higher in AQP4-IgG and seronegative NMOSD-LETM (sNMOSD) ( p = 0.006). Relapses were less common in dsLETM compared to AQP4-IgG NMOSD-LETM and sNMOSD-LETM (19% vs 60% vs 100%; p = 0.001). Poor prognosis could be predicted by AQP4-IgG (odds ratio (OR) = 38.86 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.36–1112.86); p = 0.03) and EDSS 3 months after onset (OR = 65.85 (95% CI = 3.65–1188.60); p = 0.005). Conclusion: dsLETM remains clinically challenging and difficult to classify with existing nosological terminology. Despite a similar EDSS at nadir, patients with dsLETM relapsed less and had a better long-term prognosis than NMOSD-LETM.