Living with highly active multiple sclerosis means facing a constant battle against inflammation and physical changes. New data comparing two major treatment paths shows that an autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) may offer better results than the drug alemtuzumab. Specifically, patients who underwent the stem cell transplant had a higher chance of improving their physical function scores and staying free from relapses.
In addition to better disease control, the study found that patients taking alemtuzumab were significantly more likely to develop autoimmune thyroid disease. While both treatments are used to manage the condition, the transplant group showed a higher likelihood of achieving a state where the disease is not active. However, it is important to note that there were no significant differences between the two groups regarding disability progression or MRI activity.
Because this information comes from observational data, the evidence is currently considered to have very low certainty. The findings are meant to help doctors think about different options rather than providing a definitive rule. If you are weighing these options for your own care, talk to your doctor about how these results fit your specific situation.
