Welcome to the latest edition of US Neurology, which features a wide range of topical articles covering numerous areas of neurology that are of interest to the wider biomedical community. In this edition, we discuss treatment of Duchene Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), differential diagnosis of multifocal motor neuropathy, issues of care in multiple sclerosis and other interesting topics.
We begin with a review by Dubow and Meyer of DMD, the most common and severe form of childhood onset muscular dystrophy. The use of steroids in DMD has a long and complex history. The authors review patterns of steroid use across countries, dosing, and physicians’ attitudes. In addition, they discuss the use of deflazacort, a corticosteroid currently seeking regulatory approval in the treatment of DMD.
Multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) is a treatable neuropathy, but misdiagnosis can lead to delays in treatment initiation that can result in permanent disability. Beydoun presents an article on the differentiation of MMN from the more common entrapment neuropathy. Beydoun also co-authors a case series by Pokala et al that presents three presentations of myelopathy with differing etiologies and highlights the need for diligence in the diagnostic procedure in order to select the most appropriate treatment.
In an increasingly complex field, there is a need to standardise educational practices and assessments in neuromuscular and electrodiagnostic medicine. In an editorial, Quan discusses attempts to standardize practices, including the Next Accreditation System.
This edition features two articles on the subject of multiple sclerosis (MS). The increased life expectancy of MS patients has resulted in a growing population of older adults with MS. Moti et al discuss physical activity levels in this patient cohort and highlight the need for further research on physical activity behaviour and ageing in MS. Conversely, there is a high incidence of MS in women of childbearing age. Wesley et al explore patients’ misconceptions about the effect of MS on pregnancy and the impact of MS medications while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Vestibular migraine is a common cause of vertigo but is under-recognised. Naegel et al review the available options for acute treatment and prophylaxis of vestibular migraine.
Finally, neurological symptoms are common complications of cancer and cancer therapies. Dietrich and Kaiser discuss the risk factors underlying cognitive impairment in cancer patients.
US Neurology would like to take this opportunity to thank all participants in this edition, from organizations to individuals. A special thanks goes to our Editorial Board for their continuing support and guidance. In particular, we would like to thank the expert authors, who gave their precious time and effort to produce an insightful selection of articles. The expert discussions and the variety of topics covered ensure there is something of interest for every reader and we hope you find this edition useful and thought-provoking.
