Collaborating Across the Continuum™: Managing Relapsing MS " A Focus on the Utility of CD20-Targeted B-Cell Therapy

Target Audience
This activity is intended for community neurologists, MS specialists, specialty nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, pharmacists, and other members of the MS care team.

Activity Overview
Following the success of anti-CD20 antibodies in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS), there has been a shift in understanding of its pathophysiology. B cells have been identified as playing a key role in triggering MS disease activity, although it remains unclear which intercepted B-cell function is most relevant in this context. These advances in understanding of the immune mechanisms have led to the development of many immunotherapeutic drugs that target B cells. For example, there have been successful trials for 4 anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies in patients with MS, showing that B-cell depletion can be an effective treatment for the relapsing subtype. This activity will focus on developments in understanding the role of B cells in the pathogenesis of MS, emerging therapies, and strategies for developing personalized care to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with relapsing MS (RMS).

Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, participants should be better able to:
Describe the role of B cells in the pathogenesis of MS in order to better recognize potential targets for therapy
Analyze clinical trial data for current and emerging anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapies in order to optimize treatment choices for appropriate patients with RMS
Design individualized treatment plans for the optimal management of patients with RMS