[High Dose Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy for Autoimmune Diseases of the Central Nervous System]

High-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy has pharmacological suppressive actions against phagocytosis, complement system, pathogenic autoantibodies, and inflammatory cytokines, making it an effective treatment for autoimmune diseases. Unfortunately, there is no established evidence of the efficacy of IVIg therapy for autoimmune diseases of the central nervous system. Patients who are resistant to steroids and other immunosuppressive therapies or have complications that preclude the use of strong immunosuppressive therapies are considered eligible for IVIg therapy. The advantages of IVIg therapy include safety and ease of use. However, further evidence of the efficacy of IVIg treatment for autoimmune diseases of the central nervous system is warranted.