Effect of IVIg on the skin manifestations and muscle strength in dermatomyositis

Effect of IVIg on the skin manifestations (Gottron rash) and muscle strength of patients with dermatomyositis based on the first and pivotal placebo-controlled study. (Dalakas MC, Illa I, Dambrosia JM, et al. A controlled trial of high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin infusions as treatment for dermatomyositis. N Engl J Med 1993;329:1993-2000.) Not only do the active reddish lesions (top) improve, but the old grayish discolorations and mechanics hands (bottom) improve as well, allowing for the patient to fix her nails after many years of severe disease. Improvement in strength can be impressive and even allow wheelchair-bound patients to walk. (Contributed by Dr. Marinos Dalakas.)