[A case of primary erythromelalgia successfully treated with high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin therapy]

Brain Nerve. 2014 Feb;66(2):185-9.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

Erythromelalgia is a rare condition characterized by constant or paroxysmal burning pain, erythema, and the elevation of skin temperature in the extremities. Recently, the impairment of C-fiber function due to autoimmune system involvement is considered as the primary cause of erythromelalgia. However, a successful treatment has yet not been established. We report a case of a 39-year-old woman with primary erythromelalgia accompanied by high cerebrospinal fluid protein concentration and axonal neuropathy. She received various antiepileptic and anti-inflammatory drugs, but failed to improve. She finally underwent high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin therapy, which dramatically improved her symptoms and normalized cerebrospinal fluid protein concentration. This result demonstrates the effectiveness of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin therapy for the treatment of primary erythromelalgia and the possibility of autoimmune system involvement.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Erythromelalgia / complications
  • Erythromelalgia / diagnosis
  • Erythromelalgia / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / administration & dosage
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use*
  • Pain / diagnosis
  • Pain / drug therapy
  • Pain / etiology
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous