Abstract | OBJECTIVES: METHODS: We performed an open study in PM and DM with active disease. Indications for treatment were: steroid-dependency, refractoriness to steroid and/or immunosuppressants, and life-threatening disease. IVIg was used at 2 g/kg in monthly cycles for six months and then each other month for other three cycles. MMF was slowly titrated to 30 mg/kg/day orally. Parameters employed to follow patients were the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale, the modified Rankin score, CK serum levels and daily prednisone dose. RESULTS: Seven patients were studied (4PM, 3DM). All were females, with a mean age of 49 years. All of them achieved a complete remission and, at the last follow-up visit, significant differences in MRC score, modified Rankin score, CK levels, and the daily maintenance prednisone dose were documented. No relevant side effects were observed. CONCLUSION:
IVIg as add on treatment with MMF is effective in severe and refractory myositis, moreover as safe and steroid-sparing agent.
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Authors | Maria Giovanna Danieli, Lucia Calcabrini, Vincenzina Calabrese, Annalisa Marchetti, Francesco Logullo, Armando Gabrielli |
Journal | Autoimmunity reviews
(Autoimmun Rev)
Vol. 9
Issue 2
Pg. 124-7
(Dec 2009)
ISSN: 1873-0183 [Electronic] Netherlands |
PMID | 19386287
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
- Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
- Immunosuppressive Agents
- Creatine Kinase
- Mycophenolic Acid
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Topics |
- Aged
- Creatine Kinase
(blood)
- Deglutition Disorders
- Dermatomyositis
(blood, drug therapy, immunology, physiopathology)
- Disease Progression
- Drug Resistance
- Drug Therapy, Combination
(adverse effects)
- Dyspnea
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Humans
- Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
(administration & dosage, adverse effects)
- Immunosuppressive Agents
(administration & dosage, adverse effects)
- Middle Aged
- Mycophenolic Acid
(administration & dosage, adverse effects, analogs & derivatives)
- Polymyositis
(blood, drug therapy, immunology, physiopathology)
- Remission Induction
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