Ravulizumab for generalized Myasthenia Gravis: a multicenter real-life experience

Abstract

Introduction: Ravulizumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting C5, was recently approved for the treatment of anti-AChR positive generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) patients. The objective of this study is to present the Italian multicenter real-world experience evaluating the safety and efficacy of ravulizumab in gMG within the context of the Expanded Early Access Program (EAP). Methods: We conducted a retrospective study in 7 gMG referral centres in Italy. Demographic and clinical characteristics were recorded at baseline and during follow-up through clinical scale changes including Myasthenia Gravis-Activities of Daily Living (MG-ADL), Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis (QMG) and Myasthenia Gravis Composite (MGC). Frequency of minimal symptom expression (MSE) and changes in concomitant medications were also evaluated. Results: Twenty-four gMG patients (10/24 females) aged between 24 and 82 years (Median 60.5, IQR 52.5–67.5), were included. Fifteen patients had undergone thymectomy, and 14 had a thymoma. Median follow-up duration was 26 weeks (range 10–74, IQR 26–42). MG-ADL and QMG scores showed a significant decrease with respect to baseline (p < 0.001). MSE was achieved by 37.5% patients at the last available follow-up. Tapering of prednisone daily dosage was possible in 76% of patients. Thymoma was significantly associated with QMG score reduction and the frequency of QMG responders at week 2 (p = 0.03). Three patients discontinued treatment. One patient experienced a myasthenic exacerbation and needed rescue therapy. Infectious adverse events were reported in 5/24 patients, and a Stevens-Johnson syndrome in one patient. Conclusions: Real-world data confirm the effectiveness, safety, and prednisone-sparing effect of ravulizumab in patients with gMG, especially in those with thymoma.