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[Intravenous immunoglobulin in postpolio syndrome]
Elisabeth Farbu1, Tiina Rekand, Nils Erik Gilhus
1Nevrologisk avdeling, Haukeland Universitetssykehus 5021 Bergen. elisabeth.farbu@helse-bergen.no
Summary
Postpolio syndrome patients may benefit from immunoglobulin therapy. This treatment showed improved muscle strength and reduced fatigue in a case study, suggesting a potential therapeutic option.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
Background:
- Postpolio syndrome (PPS) affects approximately 25% of individuals with a history of paralytic poliomyelitis.
- PPS is characterized by new-onset muscle weakness, pain, and fatigue decades after the initial polio infection.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old woman with paralytic polio history presented with progressive muscle weakness, pain, and fatigue.
- Clinical evaluation, MRI, and EMG ruled out other causes for her symptoms, leading to a diagnosis of PPS.
- The patient received a five-day course of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).
Findings:
- Two and three months post-treatment, the patient exhibited significant improvement in isokinetic muscle strength.
- The patient reported a notable reduction in fatigue levels following IVIG therapy.
Implications:
- This case report suggests that stabilizing autoimmune dysfunction could be a viable therapeutic strategy for postpolio syndrome.
- Intravenous immunoglobulin may represent a promising treatment avenue for managing PPS symptoms.