Novartis presents first-of-its-kind algorithm-based tool to help evaluate early signs of progression to secondary progressive MS

Novartis announced results from a validation study of the innovative, algorithm-based digital solution MS Progression Discussion Tool, or MSProDiscuss. The tool aims to support and facilitate a discussion between physicians and patients living with multiple sclerosis (MS) who have transitioned, or are at risk of transitioning from relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) to secondary progressive MS (SPMS). Diagnosing SPMS can be challenging but if carried out in a timely manner, could help to prevent further irreversible damage. The study findings, presented at the 2019 American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting (AAN) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, support the validity and potential use of MSProDiscuss to help evaluate and discuss early signs suggestive of progression in clinical practice.

"One of the greatest challenges in MS is diagnosing the transition from RRMS to SPMS as the course of the disease is unique for every MS patient," said Tjalf Ziemssen, MD, Professor at the Center of Clinical Neuroscience, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, Dresden, Germany, and study investigator. "The study results are a promising step toward having a scientifically-validated tool for clinical use that can facilitate physician-patient conversations and ultimately help to get ahead of MS progression."

MS neurologists in the United States, Canada, and Germany tested the tool with 198 patients with a diagnosis of RRMS, SPMS or a suspected transition to SPMS. In the validation study, physicians went through a series of weighted questions with the patients based on their experience in the last six months. The questions aim to gather information on symptoms and how they impact daily life and activities. Once completed, the algorithm generated a visual output that the physicians could use to facilitate a discussion around the level of disease progression. The results from the validation study demonstrated that MSProDiscuss was able to differentiate between RRMS and SPMS patients with high sensitivity and specificity and thus also inform about patients in transition.

The tool is in final development stage and undergoing pilot-testing in several US centers. The worldwide rollout is planned for early 2020. The tool is housed on neuro-compass, the independent educational MS site, and can be accessed via the link www.msprodiscuss.com.

The tool does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, prediction, prognosis, or treatment. The tool and its content are being provided for general information purposes only. Any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment should be made by the appropriate healthcare professional. The tool was developed with Adelphi Value, using a mixed-methods approach, and funded by Novartis Pharma.