Intravenous immunoglobulins in the treatment of immune neuropathies.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this review is to describe the value of high-dose polyclonal intravenous immunoglobulins as a treatment option in autoimmune disorders affecting the peripheral nervous system.


RESULTS
A randomized placebo-controlled trial in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy revealed short-term and long-term efficacy and safety of intravenous immunoglobulins as a treatment option for the chronically inflamed peripheral nervous system. Case reports suggest that the subcutaneous administration of immunoglobulins may represent a convenient alternative.


CONCLUSIONS
Intravenous immunoglobulin represents an effective and safe treatment option in patients with autoimmune-mediated diseases affecting the peripheral nerves.
Kieseier
Bernd C
BC
Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University, Duesseldorf, Germany. bernd.kieseier@uni-duesseldorf.de
Meyer Zu Hörste
Gerd
G
Lehmann
Helmar C
HC
Gold
Ralf
R
Hartung
Hans-Peter
HP