Intravenous immunoglobulin in lupus panniculitis

Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2010 Apr;38(2-3):307-18. doi: 10.1007/s12016-009-8162-x.

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a disease of unknown cause that may involve one or many organ or systems. Skin involvement is a major feature in this disease, and a wide variety of skin conditions may be present. Lupus erythematosus panniculitis (LEP) constitutes a rare form of cutaneous lupus characterized by recurrent nodular or plaque lesions that can vary from a benign and mild course to a more disfiguring disease. Initial therapy includes corticosteroids, antimalarials, and azathioprine and, in refractory cases, two antimalarials in association, mycophenolate mofetil, or other immunomodulators. Intravenous immuglobulin (IVIG) is used in many autoimmune disorders, like in SLE, although clinical trials have not yet taken place. In this report, we review skin manifestations of SLE and their treatment, IVIG, and finally a case of LEP successfully treated with IVIG when other therapy modalities failed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Middle Aged
  • Panniculitis, Lupus Erythematosus / drug therapy*
  • Panniculitis, Lupus Erythematosus / physiopathology

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Immunosuppressive Agents