Overview
Neuroprotective or anti-inflammatory strategies are invaluable in HTLV-1-associated myelopathy due to its rapid progression. We evaluated the efficacy of rituximab in patients with HTLV-1-associated myelopathy.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Age 18-80 years
- Patients HTLV-1-associated myelopathy (tropical spastic paraparesis)
Exclusion Criteria:
- Anticipated survival of at least 3 years
- Inability to undergo neuroimaging with Magnetic Resonance
- Clinically significant hepatic disease as demonstrated by history, clinical exam (ascites, varices), or laboratory findings (LFTs >2x normal, coagulopathy as described)
- Comorbid conditions likely to complicate therapy including but not limited to the following: a history of New York Heart Association class II, III, or IV Congestive Heart Failure; end-stage acquired immune deficiency syndrome
- Pregnancy
- Malignancy (history of or active)
- Concomitant use with antineoplastic, immunosuppressive or immune modulating therapies