Michael Levy, MD, PhD, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, discusses neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and the ongoing trial for a new app that can better monitor patients with NMOSD.
NMOSD is an autoimmune disorder that affects the spinal cord and optic nerves. Symptoms include pain, weakness, bowel and bladder problems, and temporary vision loss. NMOSD usually occurs in adulthood, but symptoms may start at any age. Some people have a single attack of symptoms lasting months, but most people have episodes that occur sporadically over time. People with NMOSD may develop permanent muscle weakness and vision loss as a result of these episodes.
As explained by Dr. Levy, three medications are currently approved for the treatment of NMOSD. These treatment options can attenuate or prevent NMOSD attacks but there is still a need to focus on symptom management from prior attacks.
NMOSDCoPilot is a digital app designed for self-assessment of NMOSD symptoms and relapses. Through a series of questionnaires, vision, walking, and cognitive tests, healthcare professionals with access will be able to monitor patients. The app provides convenience for patients who no longer have to make in-office visits as often. It also allows better insight into daily symptoms that may not always occur during visits, giving physicians a better look at how the disease manifests itself for each patient.
The trial for NMOSDCoPilot is still ongoing. For more information, visit https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05566769
To learn more about NMOSD and other rare neurological conditions, visit https://checkrare.com/diseases/neurology-nervous-system-diseases/
