A New Blood Test May Become A Biomarker For Multiple Sclerosis Progression

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This measures neurofilament-light chain levels. They are a maker to neuroaxonal damage, as the neurofilaments function as a lattice for axons. In the past, lumbar puncture was needed. Now, a blood test has been developed. This studied patients undergoing treatment with fingolimod. Another study involved patients treated with natalizumab. With treatment, levels of the neurofilament-light chains fell, and this correlated with a milder disease course.

These tests need to be validated further, but it is very exciting if a blood test could help guide treatment decisions.

This information was presented at ECTRIMS 2016. Lead author is Piehl.

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