Intravenous immunoglobulin may reduce relapse frequency in neuromyelitis optica

J Neuroimmunol. 2015 May 15:282:92-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2015.03.021. Epub 2015 Mar 28.

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) in preventing relapses in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and its spectrum disorders (NMOSDs).

Methods: Six NMO/NMOSD patients who were treated with IVIG induction dose followed by 2- to 3- monthly infusions were retrospectively identified. Annualized relapse rates (ARR) and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) pre- and post-IVIG were recorded.

Results: Median number of relapses and median ARR significantly reduced from 8.0 to 1.0 and 0.75 to 0.15 (p<0.05) respectively. Median EDSS of 6.5 remained the same. Median duration of treatment was 4.0 years.

Conclusion: IVIG may be used to reduce the relapse frequency in patients with NMO/NMOSD.

Keywords: Intravenous immunoglobulin; Neuromyelitis optica; Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder; Relapse rate.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aquaporin 4 / immunology*
  • Disability Evaluation
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use*
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Neuromyelitis Optica / drug therapy*
  • Recurrence
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • AQP4 protein, human
  • Aquaporin 4
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Immunologic Factors