AQP4-MOG Double-Positive Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder: Case Report with Central and Peripheral Nervous System Involvement and Review of Literature

Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Nov 23;23(23):14559. doi: 10.3390/ijms232314559.

Abstract

(1) The co-occurrence of AQP4 and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibodies in patients with demyelinating disorders is extremely rare. In addition, a concomitant involvement of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) has been described either in association with AQP4 antibodies-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), or MOG-associated disease. We report on a case of NMOSD with co-occurrence of AQP4 and MOG antibodies and concomitant central and peripheral nervous system involvement. We also reviewed available cases of AQP4-MOG double-positive patients. (2) Brain and spine MRI, cerebrospinal fluid studies, and electrophysiological test were performed. Serum AQP4 and MOG positivity was assessed with live cell-based assay. (3) A 62-year-old woman presented with recurrent optic neuritis, myelitis, and radiculitis, tested positive for AQP4 and MOG antibodies, and was treated successfully with rituximab. (4) Although few cases of AQP4-MOG double-positive patients were already described mostly affecting females with a concomitant spinal cord and optical nerve involvement, we describe the first case of double-positive NMOSD with the peculiar involvement of both central and peripheral nervous system.

Keywords: AQP4; MOGAD; NMOSD; neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder; radiculopathy; rituximab.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aquaporin 4
  • Autoantibodies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin G
  • Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein
  • Neuromyelitis Optica* / diagnostic imaging
  • Peripheral Nervous System

Substances

  • Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein
  • Aquaporin 4
  • Autoantibodies
  • Immunoglobulin G

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.