Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Multiple Sclerosis and Autoimmune Encephalitis: a Comparative Study of Indication, Efficacy and Safety.

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a well-established method of treatment for steroid-refractory relapses in multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). Little is known about indications and clinical responses to TPE in autoimmune encephalitis and other immune-mediated disorders of the central nervous system (CNS). We performed a retrospective chart review of patients with immune-mediated disorders of the CNS undergoing TPE at our tertiary care center between 2003 and 2015.

Causes of death in critically ill multiple sclerosis patients.

Background: Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience higher mortality rates as compared to the general population. While the risk of intensive care unit (ICU) admission is also reported to be higher, little is known about causes of death CoD in critically ill MS patients.

Aim: To study the causes of death (CoD) in the series of critically ill patients with MS verified by autopsy.

Critical Illness in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Matched Case-Control Study.

Background: Over the course of multiple sclerosis (MS) several conditions may arise that require critical care. We aimed to study the reasons for admission and outcome in patients with MS admitted to a neuro-intensive care unit (NICU).

Methods: We retrospectively searched the electronic charts of a 9-bedded NICU in a tertiary hospital for patients with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) from 1993-2015, and matched them to NICU controls without MS based on age and gender.

Comparison of stent-retriever devices versus the Merci retriever for endovascular treatment of acute stroke.

Background And Purpose: Revascularization of large cerebral artery occlusion is the therapeutic goal in stroke therapy. Currently, many recanalization devices are in clinical use. This study compares the outcome parameters, efficacy, and safety of the new generation of stent-retriever devices with the well-established Merci retriever.