Risk stratification for disease reactivation after therapy de-escalation/discontinuation in relapsing multiple sclerosis by the VIAADISC score

An international research team has investigated how the risk of relapse in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis can be better assessed after a break in treatment. An assessment system called the VIAADISC score was used, which takes into account age, disease progression and MRI findings. The results show: Those who discontinue certain medications such as natalizumab or fingolimod have a significantly higher risk of relapse - especially in younger patients or those with a short period of remission. The situation is different with milder therapies: Here, discontinuation can be safe under certain conditions. Dr Christiane Gradl from the Clinical Department of Neurology (University Hospital St. Pölten) was also involved in the study.

Bsteh, G., Introcaso, V., Gradl, C., Traxler, G., Barket, R., Föttinger, F., Hammer, H. N., Krajnc, N., Ponleitner, M., Zrzavy, T., Deisenhammer, F., Pauli, F. D., Chan, A., Berger, T., Hoepner, R., & Hegen, H. (2025). Risk stratification for disease reactivation after therapy de-escalation/discontinuation in relapsing multiple sclerosis by the VIAADISC score. Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, 103, 106691. Article 106691. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msard.2025.106691