Azathioprine reduces intrathecal IgG synthesis in multiple sclerosis.

Intrathecal IgG synthesis and CSF oligoclonal bands were reexamined after 18-24 months in 66 patients with multiple sclerosis; 40 of them received azathioprine (AZA) 2.5 mg/Kg/die; all received a course of dexamethasone (DEXA) during clinical relapses. The IgG Index was significantly reduced in the group treated with AZA, especially in patients with short disease duration, low disability and high IgG index. Changes observed in CSF banding pattern were not significant. These results suggest an effect of AZA on IgG synthesis, as reported by in vitro studies.