Ultrasound-Guided Electrodes for Conduction Studies of the Saphenous Nerve.

Purpose: Saphenous nerve conduction studies are difficult, because the nerve is hard to localize and evoked responses are small. Ultrasound imaging may assist in the accurate localization and optimal positioning of surface (SE) and needle electrodes (NE).

Methods: The study population included 39 subjects and was divided into two groups.

Atorvastatin added to interferon beta for relapsing multiple sclerosis: 12-month treatment extension of the randomized multicenter SWABIMS trial.

Background: Statins have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties in addition to lipid-lowering effects.

Objectives: To report the 12-month extension of a phase II trial evaluating the efficacy, safety and tolerability of atorvastatin 40 mg/d added to interferon beta-1b (IFNB-1b) in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

Methods: In the randomized, multicenter, parallel-group, rater-blinded core study, 77 RRMS patients started IFNB-1b.

Tolerance of intravenous methylprednisolone for relapse treatment in demyelinating CNS disease.

Background: In Switzerland, the first course of intravenous steroids for treatment of episodes of demyelinating CNS disease is usually administered in an inpatient setting. We prospectively evaluated short term tolerance of treatment with special emphasis on sleep quality.

Methods: Patients with a first event of presumed demyelinating disease (CIS), multiple sclerosis relapses (MS) or sub-acute disease progression were treated with a 5-day regimen of intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) in our inpatient clinic.

Atorvastatin added to interferon β for relapsing multiple sclerosis: a randomized controlled trial.

Statins have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties in addition to lipid-lowering effects. The present study evaluated the effect of atorvastatin added to interferon beta-1b in multiple sclerosis (MS) in a multicenter, randomized, parallel-group, rater-blinded study performed in eight Swiss hospitals. Seventy-seven patients with relapsing-remitting MS started interferon beta-1b every other day.

Campylobacter jejuni abscess, encephalomyelitis, and acute polyradiculoneuropathy.

We report an unusual case of spinal epidural Campylobacter jejuni abscess associated with acute polyradiculoneuropathy and parainfectious encephalomyelitis. Decompressive surgery, antibiotics, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy, and intravenous methylprednisolone resulted in rapid clinical improvement. C.