Immunoglobulin G4 Related Disease (IgG4-RD)
Overview
IgG4-RD is a chronic inflammatory condition that can affect multiple organs at a time. It is an immune-mediated disease that may lead to fibrosis (scarring of tissues).
Common Signs And Symptoms
- Swelling Of Salivary Glands
- Lower Back Pain
- Fatigue
- Abdominal Pain
- Eye Pain
- Weight Loss
People with IgG4-RD may experience a variety of symptoms including:
Diagnosis Journey
IgG4-RD can impact people in many different ways. People may have IgG4-RD for months or even years before a diagnosis is confirmed. This can result in organ damage before the individual is even aware. IgG4-RD is diagnosed by different specialties as the condition affects multiple different organs. Therefore, a combination of tests and findings is required for a diagnosis of IgG4-RD.
Treatment Options
Treatments options for IgG4-RD include:
- Glucocorticoids (steroid hormones) can be effective in disease control in the early stages of the disease. As a result, glucocorticoids are typically the initial course of treatment, but many patients are unable to achieve remission with this alone.
- B-cell depletion therapy is given through an IV. A common B-cell depletor for IgG4-RD is Rituxan, which has been successful in terms of remission.
- Other treatments that are sometimes used include non-steroid immunosuppressant medications like cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil, azathioprine, mercaptopurine, and methotrexate.
Ongoing Research
IgG4-RD is a rare disease that requires more effective treatment options as there are currently no approved therapies specifically for IgG4-RD. In order to find these new treatments for IgG4-RD, further research is necessary.
Current Research Studies
There are over 15 research studies actively recruiting participants with IgG4-RD. Visit ClinicalTrials.gov to find IgG4-RD research studies near you.
Research & Resources
Related Stories & Profiles
Explore relevant human stories and expert perspectives connected to this condition.
