As mentioned in a previous post, I have spent the last few months researching HSCT (stem cell transplant) to find out more about what is involved and to see whether it might be a good option for me …I have come to the conclusion that it is!
I have also been finding out more about other treatments for MS, so that I can make a reasonable comparison. There are several treatments (Disease Modifying Therapies, DMTs) available – non of them cure MS – they have varying degrees of effectiveness in reducing the number and severity of relapses and for some have no impact at all. All DMTs bring potential side effects and short and long term health risks.
Side effects include stomach upset, flu like symptoms, injection site issues, low mood and suicidal thoughts (as if having MS isn’t enough!). Side effects are common and patients often have to try several different drugs before finding the one that suits them best.
The mechanism by which most of these treatments work is unknown, however, all work to reduce the effectiveness of the immune system. This means that patients are at risk of repeated infections (stomach bugs, coughs and colds, fungal infections, urinary tract infections, cold sores etc etc). There is also an increased cancer risk and little is known about long term use, as the drugs are fairly new. In March 2018, one DMT was withdrawn after a serious risk to life was identified – it had been introduced just 2 years previously. One of the most powerful DMTs is known in some circles as “Liquid HIV” because of its devastating effect on the immune system.
So, how does HSCT compare.
Well, it’s true to say that HSCT is an invasive and challenging treatment. Chemotherapy is no walk in the park and there is a period of time when the immune system is so low, that there is serious risk, even from minor infections. Recovery from HSCT can be slow and difficult and patients must be prepared to work hard to regain fitness.
But, once fully recovered, there is no need for further treatment, no compromised immune system and, for many, no MS! HSCT is effective in halting the disease in 70-90% of patients …no DMT comes near this.
HSCT is not widely available on the NHS (yet) but there is hope amongst patients that change is coming. A major international trial has been taking place over recent years, including patients treated in Sheffield (referred to in the BBC link in an earlier post). HSCT for MS is currently available in two London hospitals and there are whispers that other hospitals are beginning to treat a small number of patients. The MS Society, MS Trust and other patient support groups are beginning to provide information on HSCT and the tide is slowly turning.
MS-UK has a useful write up about HSCT here.
UK hospitals are already very experienced in providing HSCT as it is almost the same treatment as used for leukaemia and other blood cancers. Haematology departments are able to use a percentage of their budgets to treat non cancer patients and this is how some MS patients are able to access it.
Now I’m working on finding out how I can access it too.
Fingers crossed your hospital trust can access the funding.
Does it feel empowering to be researching and being a proactive patient?
I truly admire your strength and determination xx
Thank you xx
Yes it does! I’m sure you’ve had that experience too? I’ve definitely done too much wallowing and it’s now time to take control! 💪🏻
Thank you for posting this, Vicky – it gave me a really good insight into something I had little understanding of. I’m going to share it with another friend who has MS, as I think your blog could be really helpful to her. Best of luck in your hunt for access to the treatment, let me know if there’s anything i can offer in terms of support ..xx
Thank you Cat. I’m no expert (despite spending hours reading this stuff!). Feel free to share – I hope your friend is ok xxx