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Neurofilament Light Chain and Acute Gadolinium Enhancing Lesions
Tanuja Chitnis, MD, explains how higher neurofilament light chain levels can signal disease activity in MS.
Experts discuss the challenges with routine MRI usage and the potential role of serum biomarkers like neurofilament light (NFL) as an alternative. They address the correlation between serum NFL and MRI findings.
Tanuja Chitnis, MD, explains that NFL levels are elevated during acute gadolinium-enhancing lesions, with variations based on lesion size and number. Larger lesions and multiple lesions correlate with higher NFL levels. There is also regional variability, with brainstem and spinal cord lesions showing potentially higher NFL levels than lesions in the brain or optic nerve. She notes the difficulty in precisely timing NFL elevation in relation to the formation of new gadolinium-enhancing lesions. Generally, NFL is elevated for about 2 to 3 months after such lesions. A 30% increase in NFL is commonly associated with a new gadolinium-enhancing lesion, though variations exist.
Experts emphasize the complexity and variability in NFL levels and highlight the challenges in using it as a precise marker. Tanuja Chitnis, MD, expresses readiness to address practical considerations and further questions on the topic.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by HCPLive® editorial staff.
