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Published on: December 1, 2023
Hashimot's encephalopathy-response to intravenous immunoglobulin
E Wirkowski1, R B Libman, M Batash
1Department of Neurology, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, NY, USA.
Summary
Hashimoto's encephalopathy, a rare brain disorder, may be treatable with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). This approach showed significant improvement in a patient unresponsive to traditional therapies, offering a potentially safer alternative.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Hashimoto's encephalopathy is a rare neurological disorder characterized by cerebral dysfunction, potentially mimicking stroke.
- Current treatments involve steroids and immunosuppression, which can have significant side effects.
- Exploring alternative, less toxic treatments like IVIG is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) as a treatment for Hashimoto's encephalopathy.
- To present a case study of an elderly patient with Hashimoto's encephalopathy treated with IVIG.
Main Methods:
- A case report of an 82-year-old woman presenting with neurological deficits and elevated antithyroid antibodies.
- Initial treatment with prednisone and methotrexate proved ineffective.
- Subsequent treatment involved monthly courses of IVIG.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced marked clinical improvement following IVIG treatment.
- This suggests IVIG may be an effective therapeutic option for Hashimoto's encephalopathy.
Conclusions:
- Hashimoto's encephalopathy might be underdiagnosed.
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) should be considered as a treatment option for patients diagnosed with Hashimoto's encephalopathy, offering a potentially beneficial alternative to conventional therapies.
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