| Treatments: |
ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone) is the most widely used drug for OMS. Acth is an inner muscular injection given in the thigh. The hormone stimulates natural steroid production in the body. It has been recommended that it not be used long term, though many times it is unavoidable in OMS. Usually, the best option is high dose treatment initially, followed by every other day injections. Acth must be tapered slowly and the use of another drug therapy, such as IVIG, is recommended during weaning. Swelling Hypertension Irritability Behavioral Problems Sleeplessness Risk of Infection Masks Infections Osteoporosis Nausea and Vomitting |
| Side Affects: |
Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide), a form of chemotherapy, seems to have a significant outcome in OMS. It has been suggested, when Cytoxan is used as an early treatment, there is a better long-term neurological outcome. Cytoxan, a form of chemotherapy, can be given orally. A low dose is usually preferred, as the side effects are not as severe as in higher dosing. Other forms of chemotherapy are also used. Side Affects: Increased risk of infection Bladder Injury Loss of Appetite Nausea Vomiting Drinking 2 to 3 liters of water daily is recommended to lower risk of damage to the bladder. |
Plasmapheresis:. Similar to dialysis, the blood is filtered and antibodies are removed. This increases risk for infection though it can be an effective treatment. Unfortunately, because most inflicted with OMS are toddlers, plasmapheresis is not an option. The machine used must be primed and approximately one- third of the child's blood would have to be removed. Side Affects: Increased Risk of Infection Risks Associated with Port |
| Important! While on Acth, immunizations must not be given. A calcium and potassium supplement may be recommended. Annual bone density scans should be done to check for osteoporosis. Annual eye exams are necessary. When tapering Acth, a replacement steroid may benefit long-term users. |
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| Cataracts and Glaucoma Growth Suppression Muscle Weakness Ulcers Slow Healing Acne Diabetes Dizziness Potassium loss |
IVIG (Intravenous Immunoglobulins) is essentially "good" antibodies; the ones that help us fight illnesses. The blood stream is flooded with good antibodies and the immune system is thrown into disarray. Although not widely used, IVIG is fairly effective. There are few side affects and it can be given on a monthly basis. Usually done in a hospital setting, IVIG can cost as much as $20,000 a treatment Side Effects Headache Fever Flu-like Symptoms |