Neurology
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Daclizumab is an interleukin 2 receptor alpha chain specific humanized monoclonal antibody that has shown promising therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis (MS). Daclizumab treatment in patients with relapsing and remitting MS was administered to determine effects on MRI and clinical outcomes. ⋯ Daclizumab was effective in reducing contrast enhancing lesions and improving clinical scores in patients with relapsing and remitting multiple sclerosis with active disease not controlled by interferon therapy. These results provide evidence for long-term efficacy and support further clinical development of daclizumab.
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Respiratory myoclonus or diaphragmatic flutter is an unusual movement disorder with abnormal diaphragmatic activity, which may be associated with respiratory symptoms. The effects of distracting maneuvers on diaphragmatic activity have not been investigated. ⋯ "Respiratory myoclonus" may be a heterogeneous disorder ranging from synchronous movements of the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles associated with respiratory compromise, to diaphragmatic movements under at least some volitional control with no respiratory or functional disability. The latter group could be designated phenomenologically as "isolated diaphragmatic tremor."
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Comparative Study
Subdural electrode analysis in focal cortical dysplasia: predictors of surgical outcome.
Patients undergoing epilepsy surgery for focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) guided by subdural EEG generally have a poor surgical outcome. Our objective was to identify predictors of postoperative seizure recurrence in this patient cohort. ⋯ We have identified specific predictive factors that may guide the surgical evaluation of patients with focal cortical dysplasia and intractable epilepsy requiring subdural EEG monitoring. Successful surgical results can be obtained utilizing subdural EEG in carefully selected patients.