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Originally Posted by Natalie8
General questions for everyone:
1. How often does your neuro do an MRI while you are on Tysabri? It's standard to have one at the 6th month mark, right? (I just had my 6th infusion). What about after that one?
2. At what point did you all get tested for the antibodies? I think I got panicky after Monday's infusion that I was having some kind of reaction that typically suggests antibodies (nausea, fever, dizziness--at least according to the Tysabri insert). Has anyone developed antibodies further down the line? I think I had the test at the 3 month mark -- never heard anything so I assume everything is ok.
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Natalie,
I had an MRI right before I started Tysabri, one at the 6 month mark and one at the 18 month mark.
I have bloodwork every three months, but I haven't had the antibody test, asked about that yesterday, and my doc said that he doesn't test for antibodies unless the patient has some sort of negative reactions and then it would be done at 3-6 month mark. Transient reactions are reported during the first six months by a lot of folks who are on it, they either usually smooth out or get worse and when they get worse, then you look into antibodies. If there's some sort of reaction later after long term infusion history, he would look into it immediately.
Quote:
Originally Posted by 4boysmom
I've had 8 infusions, and my neuro has not even mentioned an MRI or the antibodies test. I did have bloodwork done at 3 and 6 month mark. The blood I gave in October, the neuro said it was absolutely perfect! So, he didn't seem too worried about my chills and such after infusion.
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Your neuro may feel that since everything seems to be going along ok except for the chills and stuff, that you don't need an MRI. You may also have restrictions on your insurance since both are VERY expensive. I know my insurance doesn't have any restrictions, but I have an old plan and it doesn't have any restrictions because it is a full service plan, and not an HMO or PPO or Comp Care or Managed Care, so I get them when he wants them with no problems.