Recurrence of severe symptomatic late-onset neutropenia on ocrelizumab

Mult Scler. 2024 Jan;30(1):131-133. doi: 10.1177/13524585231206218. Epub 2023 Oct 27.

Abstract

Background: Late-onset neutropenia (LON), defined as an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) < 1500/mm3 that develops between 4 weeks and 6 months after the last drug administration, is a rare side effect of anti-CD20 drugs including ocrelizumab. Although continuation of ocrelizumab after LON is not contraindicated, the risk of LON recurrence is not well known.

Cases: We report three cases of recurrent symptomatic agranulocytosis (ANC < 500/mm3) occurring under ocrelizumab.

Conclusion: Given the risk of recurrence of symptomatic agranulocytosis and the availability of other treatments, a therapeutic switch may be discussed after the first episode of LON.

Keywords: Late-onset neutropenia; multiple sclerosis; ocrelizumab; recurrence.

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Leukocyte Count
  • Neutropenia* / chemically induced
  • Rituximab / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Rituximab
  • ocrelizumab
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized