Immunotherapy in miscellaneous medical disorders Graves ophthalmopathy, asthma, and regional painful syndrome.

Gonzales, Michael; Fratianni, Carmel; Mamillapali, Chaitanya; Khardori, Romesh · Med Clin North Am · 2012

review · Level V

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Abstract

In Graves ophthalmopathy, immunotherapy is offering an opportunity of reducing bad outcomes that lead to disfigurement and impairment of vision. These therapies are not perfect; however, we now have a chance to achieve better outcomes. In asthma, immune therapy using passive immunity targeting key proinflammatory cytokine/chemokines and medications of their effects has opened an avenue of research into a safe and durable therapy. Omalizumab appears to be safe and effective in clinical use. In regional pain syndrome, immune mechanisms may be involved in sustaining long-standing pain, and IVIG may moderate pain sensitivity by reducing immune activation.

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