Intravenous immunoglobulin may reduce relapse frequency in neuromyelitis optica

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) in preventing relapses in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and its spectrum disorders (NMOSDs). Methods Six NMO/NMOSD patients who were treated with IVIG induction dose followed by 2- to 3- monthly infusions were retrospectively identified. Annualized relapse rates (ARR) and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) pre- and post-IVIG were recorded. Results Median number of relapses and median ARR significantly reduced from 8.0 to 1.0 and 0.75 to 0.15 ( p < 0.05) respectively. Median EDSS of 6.5 remained the same. Median duration of treatment was 4.0 years. Conclusion IVIG may be used to reduce the relapse frequency in patients with NMO/NMOSD.