Introduction to the ECTRIMS 2024 Conference Report

Dear Colleagues,

The ECTRIMS 2024 meeting, held from 18–20 September in Copenhagen, Denmark, brought together global leaders in MS research and treatment. This year's conference showcased substantial advances in understanding MS pathophysiology, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic strategies, reflecting the rapid evolution of the field.

Key highlights included updates to the McDonald criteria, with a notable expansion to include asymptomatic individuals with radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS), which will hopefully support earlier diagnosis. This shift towards biologically-informed diagnosis aligns MS with other neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Discussions also focused on the utility of biomarkers, including kappa-free light chains and central vein signs, and the potential of gut microbiota in modulating inflammation and disease progression.

Innovative therapies were a major focus, with CAR T-cell therapy trials targeting B cells in progressive MS and BTK inhibitors like tolebrutinib demonstrating a delay in disability progression. The HERCULES study marked a significant step forward, highlighting tolebrutinib as the first agent to slow progression in non-relapsing secondary progressive MS. Incremental advances in real-world applications, such as personalised dosing strategies for ocrelizumab, were also presented. The safety of long-term therapies like ozanimod was reaffirmed, and the benefits of autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) in severe MS were further demonstrated in a large real-world cohort. Additionally, the nuanced discussion around vitamin D supplementation highlighted the need for careful clinical supervision to balance its potential benefits and risks.

Notably, the conference examined the role of comorbidities in MS outcomes, showing that higher comorbidity burdens are linked to poorer clinical results, reinforcing the need for comprehensive patient management. The importance of pregnancy and breastfeeding considerations in MS care was also addressed, with new findings on the transfer of ocrelizumab into breastmilk providing reassurance for patients and clinicians.

The meeting also highlighted the growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in MS diagnosis and care. A study comparing AI platforms to clinicians demonstrated that AI could assist in identifying MS faster, though significant limitations remain. This reflects a broader trend of incorporating emerging technologies into patient care.

This report captures the breadth of topics discussed at ECTRIMS 2024 and serves as a valuable resource for clinicians, researchers, and healthcare stakeholders. On behalf of the contributors and participants, we at Medicom extend our gratitude to all who continue to push the boundaries of MS research and treatment. A special thanks also goes out to our Editor and volunteer expert Reviewers. We hope this report provides insights and inspiration as we work collectively towards better care and outcomes for those living with MS.

 

Enjoy the read,

Dr Rachel Giles



Posted on 25 November 202426 November 2024