Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Associated Disease (MOGAD)

Overview

A healthcare provider will diagnose MOGAD after a physical exam, neurological exam and testing. They’ll learn more about your symptoms and medical history during the exam. Tests look for identifying markers of MOGAD like:

Increased white blood cell counts (which happen during inflammation).
Brain or spinal cord lesions.
Oligoclonal bands (groupings of antibodies), which are commonly absent in MOGAD but present in other diseases.

Helpful tests to diagnose MOGAD include:

Blood tests.
Vision exam.
Lumbar puncture.
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan.

MOGAD can be difficult to diagnose. Symptoms look similar to other conditions, like multiple sclerosis for example.

When does a MOGAD diagnosis happen?

Most people receive a MOGAD diagnosis in their 20s or 30s, but the condition can affect anyone at any age. Children are usually diagnosed before age 11.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

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