Beyond the Basics: What Makes Immunoglobulin Therapy Effective in Dermatomyositis?

Theater A | Supported By: Octapharma

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Program Description

While the use of Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg) in autoimmune disorders like dermatomyositis is
known for its effectiveness and widely used in clinical practice, the precise molecular mechanisms
underlying its therapeutic effects have not been fully elucidated.

During this session Prof. Lisa Christopher-Stine will provide a comprehensive overview of
immunoglobulin therapy, exploring the complex, multi-faceted mechanism through which IVIg works in
managing conditions such as dermatomyositis, as well as in mitigating infection risks for
dermatomyositis patients undergoing other immunosuppressive therapy. Through this session,
attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how to effectively utilize IVIg to enhance patient
outcomes.

Prof. Rohit Aggarwal will further illustrate the therapeutic potential of IVIg by sharing insights
from phase 3 clinical data in dermatomyositis. After discussing how IVIg has influenced treatment
approaches for dermatomyositis, his presentation will focus on the impact of baseline variables,
such as autoantibody status, on treatment response.

The session will conclude with an interactive discussion, inviting the audience to engage with the
faculty.

Agenda

• Welcome and Introduction (Rohit Aggarwal)
• Unraveling the Mechanisms of Action of Immunoglobulins in Dermatomyositis (Lisa Christopher-Stine)
• Further Learnings from Phase 3 Clinical Data (Rohit Aggarwal)
• Q&A and Closing Remarks (Lisa Christopher-Stine and Rohit Aggarwal)

For more information click here

For healthcare professionals only. This program is developed and offered by Octapharma.
This is not an official program of the American College of Rheumatology.

Speakers

Lisa Christopher-Stine, MD, MPH
Johns Hopkins University
Professor of Medicine and Neurology
Director, Johns Hopkins Myositis Center
Baltimore, Maryland

Rohit Aggarwal, MD, MS
University of Pittsburgh
Professor of Medicine
Medical Director, Arthritis & Autoimmunity Center
Co-Director UPMC Myositis Center
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania