Fingomolid Increases Varicella-Zoster Risk in Multiple Sclerosis

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections increasingly are reported in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and constitute an area of significant concern, especially with the advent of more disease-modifying treatments in MS that affect T-cell–mediated immunity.

Ann M. Arvin, MD, of the department of pediatrics at Stanford University School of Medicine, and colleagues assessed the incidence, risk factors, and clinical characteristics of VZV infections in fingolimod-treated patients and provide recommendations for prevention and management.

Calculation of the incidence rate of VZV infection per 1000 patient-years was based on the reporting of adverse events in the trials and the postmarketing setting.

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