Concentrations of immunoglobulin free light chains in cerebrospinal fluid predict increased level of brain atrophy in multiple sclerosis

In this study, we aimed to determine the possible link between immunoglobulin free light chains (FLC) and brain atrophy in patients with MS. Ninety-two patients (32 males and 60 females) with MS were included. Kappa and lambda FLC concentrations in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples of MS patients were measured using ELISA assay. FLC quotients (Q-k and Q- λ, respectively) were calculated. In a cross-sectional group (n = 92), the MRI data were acquired within 6 months from the date of the lumbar puncture. Twenty patients from this cohort performed a follow-up MRI after 1 year of observation. Brain volumes were calculated with SIENAX and the brain atrophy (percentage brain volume change (PBVC)) was assessed with SIENA. Spearman’s test was performed to assess correlations. We have shown statistically significant correlation of Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) level with normalized brain volume (NBV,r = − 0.2721,p = 0.0062), white matter volume (WMV,r = − 0.2425,p = 0.015), and gray matter volume (GMV,r = − 0.216,p = 0.0309). Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS) score correlated with NBV (r = − 0.2521,p = 0.0352) and WMV (r = − 0.315,p = 0.0079). Neither EDSS, nor MSSS scores correlated with the age of patients and relapse rate during the first year and 5 years. In our study, we found statistically significant correlations of k-FLC in the CSF with NBV (r = − 0.311,p = 0.003) and ...
Source: Immunologic Research - Category: Allergy & Immunology Source Type: research