Understanding Low White Blood Cell Counts in MS Treatments

Credibility

Interest

Key Takeaway

Some MS treatments can cause a rare condition called late-onset neutropenia, which means low white blood cells that fight infections.

What They Found

Researchers discovered that patients receiving B cell-depleting therapies, like ocrelizumab and ofatumumab, could experience late-onset neutropenia, or low white blood cell counts, even after treatment. This condition can lead to more infections, which are like catching a cold but can be much more serious. In one case, a patient had repeated episodes of low white blood cells while on these treatments and needed extra care, like antibiotics, to fight infections. After changing to a different treatment called cladribine, the patient’s blood counts returned to normal and they had no disease activity after nine months. This shows that while these therapies can be effective, monitoring blood counts is very important.

Who Should Care and Why

MS patients and their caregivers should pay attention to these findings because low white blood cell counts can make it harder to fight infections, which can impact everyday life. If someone is on ocrelizumab or ofatumumab, they might need regular blood tests to ensure their levels are safe. Caregivers can help by watching for symptoms of infections, like fever or feeling very tired, and getting medical help if these happen. Understanding these risks can help patients and caregivers work with their doctors to choose the best treatment plan. Overall, staying informed can empower patients to take charge of their health and well-being.

Important Considerations

This study focuses on a few cases, so more research is needed to understand how common late-onset neutropenia is with these treatments. Not every patient will experience this side effect, but it’s important to know it can happen. Patients should discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers to ensure they have a plan in place for monitoring their health during treatment.

Categories:

Clinical Trials Treatment Updates Living with MS

Article Topics:

B cell-depleting treatmentTranslation to patientslate-onset neutropeniamultiple sclerosisocrelizumabofatumumab

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or are seeking to broaden your understanding of this complex, neurodegenerative disease, navigating the latest research can feel overwhelming. Studies published in respected medical journals like Med (New York, N.Y.) often range from early-stage, exploratory work to advanced clinical trials. These evidence-based findings help shape new disease-modifying therapies, guide symptom management techniques, and deepen our knowledge of MS progression.

However, not all research is created equal. Some clinical research studies may have smaller sample sizes, evolving methodologies, or limitations that warrant careful interpretation. For a more comprehensive, accurate understanding, we recommend reviewing the original source material—accessible via the More Details section above—and consulting with healthcare professionals who specialize in MS care.

By presenting a wide range of MS-focused studies—spanning cutting-edge treatments, emerging therapies, and established best practices—we aim to empower patients, caregivers, and clinicians to stay informed and make well-informed decisions when managing Multiple Sclerosis.

Back to News