IVIG SHOWS NO CLINICAL BENEFIT FOR SPMS
Several double-blind placebo-controlled trials of relapsing-remitting MS have
shown beneficial effects of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) on relapse rate
and disability. The European Study on Intravenous Immunoglobulin in Multiple
Sclerosis sought to determine the effects of IVIG on secondary progressive MS
(SPMS).
IVIG therapy refers to an intravenous infusion of antibodies called
immunoglobulins. These commercially prepared antibodies are collected from the
blood of hundreds of thousands of human donors, which ensures a wide selection.
The blood is tested thoroughly for the presence of any infectious agents.
Studies have shown that IVIG therapy is effective in treating
relapsing-remitting MS, although the exact mechanism of action is not yet known.
For 27 months, 318 patients with clinically definite secondary progressive MS
were randomly assigned IVIG or an equivalent volume of placebo. Clinical
assessments were made every 3 months and MRI was repeated after 12 months and 24
months.
In this study, treatment with IVIG did not show any clinical benefit and
therefore cannot be recommended for patients with secondary progressive multiple
sclerosis at this time. More studies, perhaps involving different dosing
regimens, are needed to determine the potential benefit of IVIG for SPMS.
The Lancet
(Volume 364, Issue 9440, 25 September 2004, Pages 1149-1156)
-------------------
MSF NEWS
CALL TO ACTION FOR MARCH AWARENESS MONTH 2005!
Planning begins for the 3rd annual National MS Education & Awareness Month!
There are so many ways that you, your friends, family members, and MS support
groups can help! This year's theme is Multiple Challenges, Multiple Solutions.
We will keep you posted on the details of our upcoming events, including web
chats, teleconferences, and regional events.
Plan a fundraiser or special event! If you need help getting started, call Toni
Somma, Community Relations Coordinator, at 954-776-6805, extension 46. She can
help you plan everything from a simple dress-down day at the office to a gala
event! This year, don't just think about participating - do it!
----------------------
2005 MSF CRUISE FOR A CAUSE!
Join us for the 4th Annual MSF Cruise for a Cause from April 3rd through the
10th! Board the magnificent Millennium for an opportunity to meet and learn from
renowned MS specialists, hear motivational speakers, forge friendships with
others with MS, and break beyond barriers - both physical and emotional!
Millennium features 23 accessible cabins, and innumerable amenities, including
acupuncture at sea, a unique botanical conservatory, and AquaSpa™, a serene
water environment to cleanse and purify body, mind and spirit. Don't miss this
life-changing experience!
Departing from Fort Lauderdale, ports of call include Casa De Campo, Dominican
Republic, San Juan, Puerto Rico, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas and Nassau,
Bahamas.
Cabins must be booked directly through Fun Cruise & Travel. A donation will be
made to the MSF with each cabin booked through Fun Cruise & Travel. Visit
http://www.funcruiseandtravel.com or call toll-free 888-826-9660.
--------------------