Repeated MRI-negative demyelinating attacks linked to MOG-IgG antibodies and silent lesions – Case series and literature review

Abstract

Background

Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Associated Disease (MOGAD) is an inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system. While spinal MRI in MOGAD typically reveals longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis lesions, often involving the conus, rare cases of clinical myelitis without radiological abnormalities have been reported. This study aimed to characterize such MRI-negative presentations in MOGAD and compare them with previously published cases.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 138 patients with MOGAD and identified 37 who had experienced at least one episode of clinical myelitis. Among these, five female patients presented with clinical relapses—four involving the spinal cord and one involving the brain—without corresponding lesions on brain or spinal MRI at the time of the attack. We analyzed their clinical, radiological, and serological profiles in detail. Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive literature review to contextualize our findings, focusing on the demographic and clinical characteristics of similar MRI-negative MOGAD cases, and explored potential explanations for this phenomenon.

Results

All five patients were MOG-IgG positive (one borderline), and most showed a favorable clinical response to corticosteroids or plasmapheresis. One patient later developed a radiologically apparent but clinically silent spinal lesion. Comparison with 14 cases reported in the literature revealed similar features, including high disease severity at onset, responsiveness to immunotherapy, and frequent diagnostic delays. Notably, our cohort exhibited exclusive female representation, in contrast to the mixed demographic profiles reported elsewhere.

Conclusion

Clinical attacks in MOGAD may occur despite normal spinal and brain MRI findings, emphasizing the limitations of current imaging modalities. A normal MRI does not exclude active or evolving disease. Early MOG-IgG testing, empirical treatment when clinically indicated, and scheduled follow-up imaging are essential to prevent misdiagnosis and mitigate morbidity. Increased awareness of MRI-negative MOGAD is crucial for timely recognition and effective management.