MS at the Limits 2022 | UK guidance on MS and the risk of infection

Emma Tallantyre, MD, PhD, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK, gives an overview of the Association of British Neurologists consensus guideline on infection risk in multiple sclerosis (MS). One of the most relevant aspects is the relationship between the use of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and infection in MS, although there are other important links, such as the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and how infections can trigger relapses. However, the aim of the guidance is to aid clinicians in mitigating the risk of infection when prescribing DMTs. One of the factors considered in the guidance was tuberculosis screening prior to prescribing DMTs since false positives could expose a patient to potentially toxic anti-TB therapy needlessly. Furthermore, strategies to mitigate the risk of herpes virus infection were also discussed. Overall, the guidance involved a robust literature review followed by a series of individual recommendations, which were evidence graded. This interview took place during the 2022 Multiple Sclerosis at the Limits Conference in London, UK.

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