Mitoxantrone in the treatment of multiple sclerosis: a single-center experience

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) patients treated with mitoxantrone (MIT) and discuss the effectiveness and side effects of MIT. METHODS: We retrospectively investigated 48 SPMS patients who completed or were still receiving MIT treatment. Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores of the patients were determined who had detailed examination before the treatment. Complete blood count, urine examination, chest x-ray, kidney and liver function tests, transthoracic echocardiography were performed at initiation and during follow-up and 10 mg/m2 MIT was administered every three months. The data were assessed in order to determine the effectiveness and side effects. RESULTS: A total of 48 patients, 34 women and 14 men, had an age of 42 (26-55) years at the initiation of MIT treatment. The duration of the treatment was 12 (3-30) months. The median EDSS scores were 6 (4-8) before the treatment and 6 (4-9) after the treatment. EDSS scores improved in 6 patients, deteriorated in 12 patients and 30 patients remained with stable EDSS scores during the treatment. Seventeen patients had no side effects however 31 patients developed side effects. CONCLUSION: On the basis of this study, which is a clinical assessment of the effectiveness and side effects of MIT, we conclude that MIT can limit disability in SPMS patients and it is useful in treating SPMS patients due to favorable risk-benefit ratio