Neurológia pre prax 4/2017

Treatment with the monoclonal antibody alemtuzumab: effect on the manifestation of thyroid disorders

Alemtuzumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody directed against the CD52 surface marker that is expressed on the cell surface of immune cells. This antibody induces a rapid and long-lasting removal of lymphocyte populations from the circulation. Treatment with alemtuzumab is particularly used in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). In those with the relapsing-remitting form of MS, it significantly reduces the risk of relapse and improves their health condition. This antibody is also used in the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and in kidney transplantation. Alemtuzumab has an effect on immune functions. In patients treated with alemtuzumab, there is an increased rate of autoimmune diseases and a mild increase in infections resulting from the treatment. The most frequent autoimmune damage associated with alemtuzumab treatment is thyroid disease. Less frequent is the occurrence of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and autoimmune glomerulonephritis.

Keywords: thyroid gland, autoimmune disease, alemtuzumab, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism