[Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis, Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder and Myasthenia Gravis during the COVID-19 Pandemic].

Nakamura, Masashi; Nakashima, Ichiro

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has become a global pandemic. Neuroimmunological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, and myasthenia gravis, require long-term immunotherapies having the potential to increase the risk of infection. However, there are no evidence-based guidelines for the management of these disease during the pandemic, despite increasing concerns in patients and neurologists. Currently, there is no evidence of an elevated risk of morbidity and aggravation of COVID-19 in patients with these diseases, irrespective of whether they receive treatment. To prevent relapse or aggravation of the underlying diseases due to COVID-19, all patients should perform general preventive measures, such as social distancing, frequent hand washing, and respiratory hygiene. In patients undergoing immunotherapy, current treatment should be continued to prevent exacerbation of symptoms; however, exceptions to this include high-risk patients for COVID-19, such as the elderly, those with comorbidities including cardiac and respiratory diseases, those taking therapy with immunosuppressive agents, and those with deteriorating symptoms of COVID-19.