This new study, published in the journal "Dermatology", shows that a severe reduction of T (Treg) cells may be involved in the pathogenesis of pemphigus vulgaris (PV), an autoimmune blistering disease.

PHILADELPHIA — Permanent keratoprosthesis is becoming a viable and popular alternative to corneal transplantation, according to two specialists speaking here at the 2007 Wills Eye Hospital Annual Alumni Conference.

Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid, also known as Cicatricial Pemphigoid, is a serious autoimmune blistering disorder that can result in blindness and other complications as the result of scarring of the mucous membranes.  To our knowledge, there have been 2 reported uses…

Rituximab (RTX) is anti-CD20 chimeric antibody that selectively targets B cells.  CD20 is a molecule that functions as an antigen for it.  CD20 is expressed on mature antibody producing B cells, but not on plasma cells.(1) The FDA has approved…

By Michelle Greer, RN, MBAandMichael T. Rigas, PharmDCrescent Healthcare, Inc. “The information provided in this article has been edited by Drs. Jean-Claude Bystryn and Sergei Grando of the IPPF Medical Advisory Baord. There are several companies that provided IVIG at…

Herbal supplements are used widely, and some of these supplements may stimulate the immune system in ways that could be harmful for people who have or are prone to autoimmune diseases.  There are a number of herbal medications that have…

The function of the immune system was critical to survival of our species. Prior to the 20th century man’s greatest killers were, in fact, infectious diseases. It is important to note that not everyone’s immune system functions in the same…

Rituximab is a laboratory manufactured antibody that targets the cells in our bodies that produce antibodies. This was genetically engineered and is the first monoclonal antibody to be approved by the FDA for the treatment of cancer. The current indication…