Isokinetic strength testing for evaluating the efficacy of intravenous immune globulin therapy for inclusion body myositis.

Abstract

Inclusion body myositis is a disease of striated skeletal muscle of unclear etiopathogenesis. Its diagnosis is difficult. Corticosteroids and immunosuppressants are of limited efficacy. Positive responses to intravenous immune globulins have recently been reported in a few patients. We used a CYBEX 6000 isokinetic dynamometer to evaluate the efficacy of intravenous immune globulin therapy in a patient with inclusion body myositis. Measurements were done at the flexors and extensors of the knee, at baseline and four and eight months after treatment initiation. A course of intravenous immune globulins (2 g per course) was given every month for five months then every two months. Isokinetic muscle strength measured at an angular speed of 180 degrees/second increased by more than 41% at both knees. As compared with muscle imaging studies (computed tomography, X-ray absorptiometry, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging), isokinetic strength testing has the advantage of providing data on functional improvements under treatment.

• Authors: F Dasque, M Laroche, P Marque, P Le Vourc'h, L Moulinier, B Maziéres, C F Roques
• Journal: Revue du rhumatisme (English ed.) (Rev Rhum Engl Ed) Vol. 62 Issue 9 Pg. 598-601 (Oct 1995) ISSN: 1169-8446 [Print] France
• PMID: 8574634 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Immunoglobulins, Intravenous

Topics

• Humans
• Immunoglobulins, Intravenous (administration & dosage)
• Isometric Contraction (drug effects)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Myositis, Inclusion Body (physiopathology, prevention & control)