Human immunoglobulin for diabetic amyotrophy--a promising prospect?

Postgrad Med J. 2001 May;77(907):326-8. doi: 10.1136/pmj.77.907.326.

Abstract

Diabetic neuropathies are universally recognised and cause significant morbidity. At present improving glycaemic control is the only recognised treatment. A man with type 2 diabetes presented with disabling asymmetric lower limb proximal neuropathy. Rapid clinical, functional, and electrical improvement followed treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin. The aetiology of diabetic amyotrophy remains controversial but there is evidence for an immune mediated process and this case suggests a role for immunoglobulin in the management of this debilitating condition.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / drug therapy
  • Diabetic Neuropathies / diagnosis
  • Diabetic Neuropathies / drug therapy*
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Electromyography
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use*
  • Insulin / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Hypoglycemic Agents
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Insulin