Combination treatment of interferon β-1b and warfarin for a patient with Baló's concentric sclerosis and antiphospholipid syndrome.

Background: Baló's concentric sclerosis (BCS), a rare variant of multiple sclerosis (MS), as the initial presentation of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is unusual. The pathogenic role of antiphospholipid antibodies in the development of MS remains unknown. Anticoagulant therapy might be used in patients with MS and APS for prevention against the relapse of MS.

Case Report: We present a 27-year-old man diagnosed as BCS with APS. Initially, after corticosteroid therapy, he exhibited a complete recovery. During follow-up, his Baló-like lesion dissolved over time but transformed into other asymptomatic MS-like lesions. He also had persistently elevated anticardiolipin IgG levels. The patient was, therefore, on a combined therapy of interferon β-1b and an anticoagulant agent. No new brain lesions were found on 2 occasional head magnetic resonance imaging studies at 1 year follow-up.

Conclusions: To prevent further MS relapse and thrombotic complications of APS, a combined therapy of interferon β-1b and an anticoagulant agent can be an important strategy in treating patients with both BCS and APS.