Treating Pemphigus During Pregnancy

Although IVIg is labeled pregnancy Category C, it is likely an excellent choice of therapy.

Pemphigus often affects women of child-bearing age. Treatment usually involves the use of powerful immunosuppressive drugs and high doses of systemic corticosteroids, such as prednisone. When a patient with pemphigus becomes pregnant or develops pemphigus during pregnancy, treatment becomes even more complicated. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) is an apparently good treatment option.

Investigators studied outcomes in eight patients with pemphigus vulgaris treated with IVIg during pregnancy. Four women had previously received IVIg. They had responded well, but disease recurred with pregnancy. Treatments with IVIg were given in cycles at 3- or 4-week intervals. Each patient received 2 g/kg/cycle given in three equal doses on 3 consecutive da…

Reviewing Author

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)