Neurology
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Multicenter Study Comparative Study
The natural history of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1, 2, 3, and 6: a 2-year follow-up study.
To obtain quantitative data on the progression of the most common spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) and identify factors that influence their progression, we initiated the EUROSCA natural history study, a multicentric longitudinal cohort study of 526 patients with SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, or SCA6. We report the results of the 1- and 2-year follow-up visits. ⋯ Our study gives a comprehensive quantitative account of disease progression in SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, and SCA6 and identifies factors that specifically affect disease progression.
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To study the outcome of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and with natalizumab-associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) and immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). ⋯ Early immunologic rebound in natalizumab-associated PML has worse survival and neurologic outcome. PLEX/IA may accelerate IRIS and its impact on the final outcome is unclear. Corticosteroid therapy provides a modest benefit and needs to be systemically studied in a controlled manner in the management of natalizumab-associated PML-IRIS.
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Comparative Study
Bilateral somatosensory cortex disinhibition in complex regional pain syndrome type I.
In a previous study, we found bilateral disinhibition in the motor cortex of patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). This finding suggests a complex dysfunction of central motor-sensory circuits. The aim of our present study was to assess possible bilateral excitability changes in the somatosensory system of patients with CRPS. ⋯ These findings resemble our findings in the motor system and strongly support the hypothesis of a bilateral complex impairment of central motor-sensory circuits in CRPS I.
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Multicenter Study Comparative Study
Phase II screening trial of lithium carbonate in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: examining a more efficient trial design.
To use a historical placebo control design to determine whether lithium carbonate slows progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ⋯ This study provided Class IV evidence that lithium carbonate does not slow the rate of decline of function in patients with ALS over 13 months.