J Mult Scler Neuroimmunol.  2023 Dec;14(2):73-79. 10.59578/jmsni.2023.14.2.73.

A Review for Vaccination Guidelines in Patients with Central Nervous System Demyelinating Diseases including COVID-19 Vaccination

• Lyou HJ
• Lee HL

• KMID: 2561983
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.59578/jmsni.2023.14.2.73

Abstract

Since coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, several vaccines for COVID-19 have been approved for use and vaccination is encouraged worldwide. Despite these circumstances, it remains still controversial to vaccinate patients with central nervous system (CNS) demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders using immunosuppressive agents. We reviewed recent studies about vaccination, including COVID-19 vaccination in patients with CNS demyelinating diseases. Also, we summarized updated guidelines about vaccinations for patients with MS. According to recent guidelines, regular vaccinations are recommended for patients with CNS demyelinating diseases and most immunosuppressants or immune-modulating agents did not affect the efficacy of vaccinations. However, several treatments such as rituximab should be adjusted treatment schedules before vaccination. Through this review, clinicians will be given useful information to choose the best vaccination strategy according to current evidence and expert knowledge.

Keyword

Vaccination; Guidelines; CNS demyelinating diseases; Multiple sclerosis; Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders