035  Diagnosis of secondary progressive multiple sclerosis in UK centres: results from the SPECTRUM project. Issue 6 (27th May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Duddy, Martin; Wilkinson, Carmel; Rhys, Katherine; Medhurst, Steve
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 93:Issue 6(2022)
• Page Start: A24
• Page End: A24
• Publication Date: 2022-05-27
• Subjects: Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2022-ABN.74
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : Background: As new treatment approaches emerge for progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), it is important to understand the factors underlying current practice. Methods: We used a structured questionnaire to interview 59 healthcare professionals (HCPs) from geo- graphically-dispersed UK MS centres about current disease modifying therapy (DMT) management of patients with suspected/confirmed secondary progressive MS (SPMS). Results: Of the HCPs who used a definition of SPMS, a minority used the Lublin 2014 phenotype criteria (n=2/36, 6%), the remainder used a variety of other definitions (n=34/36, 94%). The most important element considered for SPMS diagnosis was expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score increase and absence of relapse (n=21/59, 36%), however many other criteria were also used. The median estimated time between first suspecting and diagnosing SPMS was 12.0 months (IQR 12.0–24.0, n=45). The most common explanations for reluctance to diagnose SPMS were concerns over withdrawing DMTs (n=49/59, 83%) and psychological impact on patients (n=39/59, 66%). Conclusions: There is substantial variation in the UK in how HCPs define and diagnose SPMS. Diagnosis is often made at advanced levels of disability and can take a year or longer from first suspicion of SPMS. [e-mail]