Intravenous immunoglobulin, plasmalymphocytapheresis and azathioprine in chronic progressive multiple sclerosis

Ital J Neurol Sci. 1994 Feb;15(1):51-3. doi: 10.1007/BF02343496.

Abstract

Five patients with a severe form of chronic progressive multiple sclerosis no longer responsive to steroid therapy were treated for six months with high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin associated with plasmalymphocytapheresis and azathioprine. In spite of an apparent initial stabilization of the course of the disease, EDSS assessment after six and twelve months of therapy revealed progressive disability in all patients.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Azathioprine / therapeutic use*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use*
  • Lymphocyte Depletion*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / physiopathology
  • Multiple Sclerosis / therapy*
  • Plasmapheresis*
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Failure

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Azathioprine