[Gamma globulin therapy in multiple sclerosis. Theoretical considerations and initial clinical experiences with 7S immunoglobulins in MS therapy].

The number of reports about successful therapeutical application of 7S-immunoglobulins in various auto-immune diseases such as ITP or autoimmune neutropenia or in myasthenia gravis has increased in recent years. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease, in which antibodies directed against various components of the myelin sheath play an important pathogenetic part. Increased antibody dependent cytotoxicity has been reported in MS, and myelinotoxic antibodies and a myelination inhibiting factor have been found in acute cases. Lately several authors have tested 7S-immunoglobulins in the treatment of MS. It is still too early for final judgement of the therapeutical efficacy, however, patients suffering from the progressive form of MS with exacerbations showed rather fast improvement of their latest neurological deficits, when treated shortly after a fresh bout. Mechanisms of action which should be taken into consideration include reduced antibody dependent cytotoxicity by surface receptor blocking reduction of the number of circulating myelinotoxic antibodies caused by a negative feed back mechanism, and removal of a neuroelectric inhibiting factor caused by antibodies.