Alemtuzumab-Induced Secondary Autoimmune Skin Disorders as Side Effects of Multiple Sclerosis Therapy: Problem That Can Be Influenced or Fate? A Narrative Overview of the Literature and a Neuroprotective Role of Vitamin D
January 2022
in “
Medical research archives
”
TLDR Taking vitamin D might improve life for MS patients and reduce skin side effects from alemtuzumab treatment.
The document discusses the challenges of treating multiple sclerosis (MS) with alemtuzumab, a therapy that can lead to secondary autoimmune skin disorders such as alopecia, vitiligo, and thyroid diseases. It suggests that assessing for pre-existing autoimmune diseases before starting alemtuzumab therapy is crucial. The document highlights the potential benefits of high-dose oral vitamin D supplementation as an add-on therapy to improve the quality of life for MS patients and to mitigate the side effects of alemtuzumab. It also notes that vitamin D has neuroprotective effects and may help prevent MS exacerbations, particularly in the context of COVID-19. The immunological mechanisms of vitamin D and its influence on autoimmune diseases are described, and the use of vitamin D in treating skin diseases associated with MS is discussed as a means to increase patient compliance with alemtuzumab therapy.