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Immunoadsorption plasmapheresis in acute ataxic neuropathy
1Department of Neurology, Hakodate Medical Association Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan.
Summary
Immunoadsorption plasmapheresis may benefit patients with acute ataxic neuropathy (AAN) if initiated early and continued longer. Early treatment showed improved walking ability in a patient with sensory ataxia.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
Background:
- Acute ataxic neuropathy (AAN) presents with sensory ataxia and areflexia.
- Currently, no established treatment exists for AAN.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old woman with severe sensory ataxia and inability to walk was treated 15 days post-onset.
- Sural nerve biopsy showed active axonal degeneration and demyelination.
Findings:
- Five sessions of immunoadsorption plasmapheresis over 2 weeks led to improved ambulation.
- The patient could walk with assistance within 12 days and independently at 3 months.
- Severe sensory ataxia persisted over a 17-month follow-up.
Implications:
- Early immunoadsorption plasmapheresis may be beneficial for mild axonal degeneration in AAN.
- Extended plasmapheresis duration may be necessary for optimal outcomes.
- Further double-blind studies are required to confirm treatment efficacy.