Multiple sclerosis and cancer: When two wrongs make a right?

Abstract

Introduction: Current treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) remain partially successful, with certain patients remaining treatment resistant. A recent treatment, known as ‘immunoablation’ has been used in severe cases of adult MS with promising results. However, due to its high risk and reservation for severe or refractory cases, its full potential remains unknown.

Methods: We report the case of MM, a 14-year-old boy diagnosed with MS and a concurrent diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Results: After receiving aggressive chemotherapy (immunoablation) for Hodgkin's lymphoma, MM's MS symptoms appear to have remitted, and he has remained progression- and disease activity-free for over six years.

Discussion: This case study will focus on MM's cognitive and behavioural development over this time, but will also discuss treatment implications raised by this rare case.

• Multiple sclerosis
• immunoablation
• chemotherapy
• haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation
• treatment