Overview

Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Associated Disease (MOGAD)

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) is a condition where your immune system attacks parts of your central nervous system (CNS). The CNS includes your brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. It processes everything you do, from your thoughts to your movements and breathing.

MOGAD occurs when your immune system attacks the protective layer (myelin) around the fibers in your CNS. The attack can cause swelling (inflammation) that blocks or slows messages from your brain to other parts of your body.

MOGAD is different from multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), even though symptoms can be similar. 

There are 2 types of MOGAD:

• Monophasic MOGAD: when you have only one attack. 
• Relapsing MOGAD: when you have more than one attack. 

Certain information about your first attack — like clinical information, lab results and imaging — can help predict if you fall in the monophasic or relapsing category. However, this prediction is not a guarantee.

Most people with MOGAD are expected to recover. In some patients, attacks can cause lasting problems with vision, movement, bladder or bowel control, thinking or other body functions. 

MOGAD can affect both children and adults although the symptoms may differ depending on age.