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Anyone have Multifocal Motor Neuropathy ??
Hi,
I am new to this post----just wondering if anyone has had experience with Multifocal Motor Neuropathy with Conduction Block and what has worked for you. I am scheduled to receive IVIG therapy soon, and am curious about that as well.....Any info. would be greatly appreciated.. Thanks !! Doug |
Doug I don't have MMN, but have
CIDP and have gone thru the whole cookbook of tests to get that precious diagnosis.
I suggest you take a look at the following web sites and get oriented first to understand what all is happening to your body: This is a doctors' way of diagnosing Peripheral Neuropathy, don't discount it, as it describes all the tests that eliminate PN and a whole slew of other stuff to get to the MMN diagnosis..[besides feeling like @#*$!] http://www.aafp.org/afp/980215ap/poncelet.html Usually for PN folks, the MMN is diagnosed at somewhere in the 'middling' stage of tests...I think Another diagnostic resource was put together by a PN member along with other members' input. It outlines over 96% +/- of all tests that could be done to diagnose PN, autoimmune diseases [CIDP {my issue} and MMN {your issue}] and other neuro aspects that overlap. http://www.lizajane.org/ To help you keep track of it all, tho...you have to get copies of all your tests. A frustrating thing true, but very useful if you have to move or for a heap of other issues as well. One excellent resource is a magazine published w/help from IVIG manufacturers called IG Living. www.igliving.com Suscribe to the 'e-zene' an on-line magazine and save trees but you have all access to past issues. It's chock full of info about all folks who use IVIG for immune diseases. It's a free resource and I have personally found the folks there helpful to me and to many others who have problems getting their IVIG for all sorts of reasons...They also answer all sorts of questions, be they simple ones or complicated ones. They are great! This is from an international association about CIDP pain [my problem] but it is useful in terms of explaining what is happening to your immune system... http://www.cidpinfo.com/about_this_site/site_map.aspx Also about the whole diagnosis 'menu' that consists of a sort of checklist of 'things' that have to be eliminated before deciding it's MMN or 'something else'. This is the whole menu of neuro issues in a somewhat technical format: http://neuromuscular.wustl.edu/ It does help outline the distinctions between MMN and other neuro/neuropathy issues -many many overlap. You might need access to a medical dictionary for this one, but it is a goldmine of info in terse format. After you read all that, and aren't cross-eyed, I encourage you to check out the 'Peripheral Neuropathy' forum - http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum20.html It's interesting because we all seem to have 'other' medical issues as well. And are a curious and frustrated bunch. As for Info on IVIG, I've found that the IGLiving source is a truly reliable source for info about it. I have also met and grown to appreciate many folks who receive IVIG for MMN, I have received IVIG for over 3 years for my CIDP and KNOW I am soo much better for it! IF you have any questions about getting and receiving IVIG, please don't hesitate to ask...either post here or thru a PM... It IS important that you be thoroughly informed about the IVIG; How it's put into you; the side effects, good and bad; and the safeguards and safety of it all. It is very special stuff! It can make a biig difference in your life and I truly hope that is what happens in your case...you get a bit of your LIFE back! I truly hope this all helps...I've got lots more info if you want it... - j |
I've got it too MMNCB
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Hi Doug: I was diagnosed with MMN with CB in October and started IVIg treatment immediately thereafter. The IVIg worked wonders for my mobility issues (prior to the treatment I'd essentially lost the use of my left hand) in that they appeared to come back fully within the first 7 days. The IVIg has not been bad - Luckily I';m in a position to take enough time off so that I don't have to work on treatment days as I find that particularly difficult. The most difficult thing I'm struggling with now is the stamina/fatigue issues. I'm getting a relatively aggressive treatment of IVIg (5 days in a row, every 4 weeks for 6 months) and am hopeful that as I get backed down to a maintenance dose my stamina and strength will improve. |
Mmn
Hi,
My wife's doctors are starting down the MMN road with her. She does not show conduction block from the ulnar nerve, but had some conduction block from Erb's point. I hear wonderful things about IVIG, and I am hoping that she regains some of her strength in her hands and that her feet start to feel better as well. |
Any opinion about IVIG treatments?
I have MMN and have minimal use of my left hand. I am showing signs of atrophy and am experiencing painful cramps in my left hand and left leg. The doctor suggested IVIG treatment which I am scheduled to receive in the next few weeks.
Please keep us posted Braveheart07...I hope everything works out for you. |
Thanks to all who responded---
dahlek--WOW that's alot of helpful info.--thanks so much---I have been on another board, and doing tons of research, and sort of forgot about my thread here--sorry for the delay--- I have been through 2 rounds of IV therapy ( 4 days 3 weeks apart)--and so far I haven't noticed any difference...I really thought I would by now--I have one more round to go in 3 weeks--we'll see what happens---I'm looking into possible Lyme disease--my symptoms seem to indicate it's possibility--Have an appt with a LLMD on 4/2--I will take everyone suggestions here--Thank-you so much for them-- Ihope you all are doing well and have a great Easter, and SPRING !!--Doug |
Life after IVIG?
I was diagnosed with MMN a few years ago - initially just some minor weakness in my right hand. Gotta say my consultant wasn't really very helpful, but after a little research of my own, I decided that I'd prefer not to seek treatment. My main reason (apart from avoiding blood borne infections - i am a bit paranoid :) ) was that I read that IVIG treatment only worked for a few years, then it all started to go downhill again. I figured that it would be better to wait until (if) my symptoms got serious before treatment, as that would be when I'd really need an effective treatment.
Now I have another symptom (weak calf) and have done a little more research, I am beginning to wonder if I made the right choice. Wondering about the opinions of anyone who has taken the treatment, and those who have not. Also, how does insurance typically take to IVIG for MMN? Will it pay for the whole treatment, or is it out of your own pocket? |
Insurance Payment
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God Bless Everyone and their families that have been affected. Good Luck, Steven |
Treatment for MMN
I have had MMN with CB since 2000. Left arm and hand weakness and tremors. Symtoms began in 2000 and diagnosed in 2001 ( first diagnosis was Motor nuerone), began treatment with Ivig (Intragam) 150gms at three monthly intervals, this treatment increased strenth levels in the short term. Over the years the time between Ivig infusions has been decreased. Now recieving 90gms every 5 weeks. My self testing is to do a bicep curl with a 1 kg weight and record the number of times that I can lift it. At the start my peak was 30 times now my peak is 9 times, so the effectiveness of the Ivig is decreasing. These records have all been charted and the Drs love it.
In October 2007 I was treated with Rituximab, this increased my strength level (16 lifts) but only last for two months then back to previous levels. In Dec 2008 I commenced a six month course (1 per month) with cyclophosphamide, I have had two doses as well as continuing the usual Ivig. Small improvement after the first treatment, still waiting for the second to kick in. has anyone else been down this path and is it worth it. |
hey
I have just been diagnosed with MMN myself. I'm only 23 years old and I've been having weakness in my left leg. I can't get up, walk, stand for long periods or climb stairs. I've found out that its now in both legs and both arms. I was told that i had a viral infection and my white blood cells attacked the virus then saw my nerves as a threat and attacked them as well. I also suffer with drop foot syndrome. I'm very miserable and my knees keep giving out on me. When I fall i can't get myself up someone has to literally pick me up. I was suppose to go see another Dr. to get a second opinion,but they can't fit me in. I believe that i'm having the iv treatment done thursday. I'm very scared and nervous. I want to be cured so i can pick up my son and run after him. Can anyone tell me what i should expect from the treatment?
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I'm sorry to hear that you are going through this. But let me tell you something that has kept me going each and everyday. That's keeping your spirits up and having a good attitude on the situation that's going on. I know it's hard, I know. I'm truly sorry we're all going through this horrible disorder. As for the treatments go. They are great. they've worked for me very well. I'm also on chemotherapy treatment called Rituximab. This did not make me sick at all,or lose any hair of that matter. I've only had one treatment of that so far. I've been diagnosed with this for almost 2 years now,so I know exactly what you are going through. Best of luck. Will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Steven Quote:
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Feeling not so alone... :)
Hey everyone -
Just stumbled across this site during my monthly "Let's look up online if they've discovered anything new about MMN" search. :) I'm currently 29 years old but started experiencing weakness in my hands when I was 26. Over the course of that first year of symptoms, I got to the point where I suffered from complete wrist drop in both hands. Being a 4th grade teacher, this was tough for me. I dropped pencils and markers in front of my kids, couldn't type or write on the board without holding one of my wrists up, and I dreaded having to shake parents' hands due to the embarrassment of my condition. My lifelong hobbies of playing piano and volleyball were stripped from me - and took normal happy-go-lucky personality with it. It was the toughest year of my life. :( After trying to fix my 'strength problems' with physical therapy, I was told I needed surgery to remove discs from my spine that were believed to be putting pressure on my spine, resulting in my weakness. Two removed discs, a titanium plate, and six screws later to do the fusing of my new cadaver discs, my surgery was over and my strength continued to deteriorate. All that, .....for nothing. Believe it or not, it was my MOM (in an attempt to try to help her sad, scared daughter) who happened to find Multifocal Motor Neuropathy online. I asked my doctor about it, and after several tests, he agreed it was what I had. I've been seeing a new neurologist and he too diagnosed me with MMN. I've been getting IVig for the past year and it has worked wonders. Unfortunately for me, I have to go once a week to get treatments. I receive my treatments in Ambulatory at our local hospital, and my insurance covers 100%. I feel truly blessed. I had a check up appt. with my neurologist today who told me about Rituximab. He said it was a newer IVig medicine that was still being researched. He said it may be something I want to consider down the road, after it's been researched more, seeing as how I will probably need treatments for the rest of my life. Those of you who are on Rituximab - do you experience any side effects? Can you truly last 10 weeks before you need another treatment of it? I find additional strength from amazing friends and family and sites like this that make me realize I'm not the only one who suffers from this. I am also thankful there IS a treatment, despite the fact that I have to go every week to get it. The more we talk about this, the more attention it will get, and hopefully they'll find a permanent cure! Hang in there, folks. We can do this!! |
Another MMN Sufferer
I'm so glad to find a forum with others who have MMN. I have been searching since I was diagnosed in Nov. 2008. I had been suffering and searching for a diagnosis for 3 years. By the time I received IVig treatment, I had lost most strength in my hands and had wrist drop. My muscles had begun to atrophy. Luckily, I had already found a medicine for the jerking, but I still had muscle cramping and mild tremors. I also have some problems with my feet, but its not too bad.
The IVig therapy worked miracles for me. I was vastly better in three weeks. I had three days in a row and then once a week for 2 months. I had a setback so I had another 3 days in a row recently. I also have it every other week. The new doc who made the diagnosis also recently started me on azathioprine. He said it would take up to 6 months to work though. I hope that we can all communicate about the struggles of this problem. *edit* |
Another MMN DX
Was diagnosed with MMN in Jan. 2009 and started ROUND 1 of IVIG in February (5 weeks: 5 days, 2 days, 2 days, 1 day and final week 1 day). Noticed improvement in left leg after 4th week ... meaning that I could walk without limping, but still couldn't walk fast/run.
After about 2-3 weeks, the "high" wore off and needed to start back on IVIG. After a prolonged battle with my insurance company, started ROUND 2 of IVIG mid-April (2x per week for 4 weeks). My leg has improved slightly, but nothing like during Round 1. My doctor wants to start me back up on IVIG treatments again ASAP, but need to deal with insurance approval again ~ crazy and infuriating!!! I'm 40 yrs old and prior to all this (just over a year ago) led a very active lifestyle (hiking, skiing, running, playing soccer with my boys). I find myself wondering if the doctor has the right diagnosis? With such a rare disease is enough known about the IVIG frequency or is it just trial and error? Am I missing out on some treatment we should be doing now before nerve damage is done that can't be repaired? What more can be done aside from IVIG? Diet changes? If I limp at 40 what will I be doing at 60 yrs old??? Well, thanks for "listening" to me vent. It's good to have a place to go to do this and not feel so alone. Appreciate hearing all your stories and what's working for you. |
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Additionally I thought it would be helpful to let you know that there is research going on in Italy with MMN that seems to be noteworthy. Also John Hopkins does research as well. The newest treatment I have heard for it is Rituxiamb (that might not be spelled right) a monoclonal antibody that attacks only certain antibodies that are attacking the peripheral nerve cells. Check it out. Best of luck to all and I am very happy I found a forum for this thing because with 1 in 100,000 there aren't too many people I can turn to to relate about my symptoms. |
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My doctors also thought I originally had CIDP. They also did a spinal tap on me and it came back normal. Then they found out about MMN and felt it was a better fit for me. Some IVig treatments work quickly, others take longer. The second time I had to get my set of five treatments, it took nearly a week before I noticed any difference, while, the first time I had the set of five, I noticed the change quickly. Don't lose hope, just be patient!
My doctors also have mentioned Rituximab. |
Two questions:
1) Has anyone thought about or tried and diet motifications for MMN?? Just relating what I've read about other auto-immune diseases and wondering if it's worth looking into (ie gluten). 2) Has anyone gone to an auto-immune doctor in addition to their neurologist? Issues with insurance over IVIG treatments is making me look at whatever alternatives I can find. |
awaiting a diagnosis - MMN vs. ALS
Thanks so much for your information on the different websites. So far I've been doing my own research (to my hubby's chagrin) to try to find out what the heck is going on with my body. Had symptoms since Dec 08 and finally getting to the point with doctors that hopefully, I will be diagnosed within this coming month of June. CIDP was ruled out already along with MS and LUPUS,etc. Very good neurologist did all the tests thinking I had CIDP and surprised himself when the tests came back negative for it. He has referred me on to a different type of neurologist now when he said I might have MMN. I have seem to come down to either MMN or possible ALS. Doctors don't seem to want to help much and was having insurance problems with the referrals to more major doctors. I think I'm finally over it. My problems started in my legs, which seems to be sort of unusual. Most people seem to have it start in their hands. Anyway, thanks for all of the different info. -B
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IVIG or not?
:Thanx: I am awaiting a diagnosis of either MMN or ALS and my referring physician seems to think the treatment of choice would be IVIG if it's MMN. I was hesitating as to whether or not I wanted to go this route or find some type of natural (herbal/physical) therapy instead. I think with everything I've read here and other places on this site my best bet would be to go with the IVIG. Thanks for helping me make this decision prior to the diagnosis. It has helped clear some of the brain fog I've been experiencing lately. -B
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my MMN started the same
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Latest news?
I have MMN. I first experienced symptoms almost 20 years ago. They were so mild I did not act upon them at first. When I did it took several attempts and multiple doctors to get a diagnosis. I start IVIG on Sept 14 2009. Anyone had luck with Rituximab? My symptoms seem to be progressing more quickly now with the jerks getting worse but I have not had cramps yet.
I live in Dallas and am looking for a support group or even one other person to talk to. Nate |
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I have had Multifocal Motor Neuropathy for 20 years
Hi Nate,
I would be happy to talk with you. I have had MMN for 20 years and have learned a lot about what helps. Quote:
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Do you get aches from MMN?
Hello, I'm curious about these aches you get. I have had MMN for twenty years and I don't have any pain or aches. I was curious what type of aches you get and what you think is causing them.
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I also have MMN. officailly diagnosed last year after initially being diagnosed with MND (ALS). I've had 2 bouts of IVIG which has had some positive effects. Given me a little strength back last one was sep 2009 so i'm ready for another session.
Would love to here from others and their experiences of the disease. Also what other treatments are out there |
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You might want to talk to your doctor about Rituxan (Chemotherapy) it has done wonders for me in a matter of 10 months, I noticed HUGE improvements of strength and stamina with this treatment. While im taking Rituxan i still take IVIG treatments. Best of Luck |
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Kelly |
Multifocal motor neuropathy
My husband has it. He stareted symptoms around 1999 but it took until 2001 to find out what was going on. He received IVIG for about 2-3 years. He believes it did not help but it did stop the progression. The IVIG was not easy, it makes you feel bad for awhile and just when you do start feeling better it is time for another dose. Some brands of IVIG seem to be worse then others. My husband stopped the IVIG because of money issues. His job changed insurance and the new insurance would not cover it all. It was costing us $1000 every 4 weeks. It cost around $7000. I had to fight very hard to get our 1st insurance to cover it it( took me 4 months and hrs. of phone calls). He seems to be holding well without the IVIG now. He still has lots of tremors, drop foot, and his fine motor skills are not great, but the IVIG did stop it. Good luck.
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Regards Jim Gilman UK |
Mmn
Hello all. My husband has had two treatments of the IVIG without any improvement. In fact he continues to get worse. Has anyone NOT responded to IVIG treatment, but responded to another form of treatment? With no response, I am wondering if he has MMN or something else...the worst case being ALS. He has no symptoms with his mouth...all is well. Please give me your feedback. Also...anyone with MMN that got so bad you had to be in a wheelchair? Karin:confused:
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Best Wishes, Steven |
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I was just checking in to see the newest on NeuroTalk and saw your post and how many people have replied or just read it. I guess this shows an interest bigger than I thought. I was diagnosed at Mayo Clinic in MN in 2006. I figure I've have had MMN w Conduction Block since about 2000. I am in Michigan. I have weakness in both hands (started in the right) and left leg and foot. I have IVIG every other week -30mg- and think it is at least keeping things in check. Everything seemed to take a long time...to get diagnosed...to get insurance okay.....this is the first year that I have had the ok to have treatment every other week...etc. I welcome any questions, thoughts, feelings. I am so glad that you posted your message!!! Christine |
Rituxamib treatment questions for Fireman 0224
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Glad to hear that you are on the upswing! That's great news. I wonder if you might be willing to elaborate a bit more on your Rituximab treatment. I'm especially curious about timelines before you noticed improvements and how obvious (or subtle) these improvements were AND how great they were. As well, what side effects did you experience and how often are you getting the Rituxamib? While I recognize that everyone's treatment and reaction to the treatment is different it's always good to hear success stories. I, too, have MMN, diagnosed just over a year ago when I could suddenly (over a matter of a few months) no longer walk unaided nor write or type without support. I originally had left foot drop and right wrist drop but this has now spread to both legs and both arms ( I can't stand on my toes either and am intrigued by the amount of strength you were able to regain). I started IVIg treatments last July bit did not respond as well as the neuro wanted. We upped the dose with no significant improvement. We then started cyclophosphamide treatments for 5 months but that did nothing more than make me ill. This March we began Rituxamib treatments; every 10 - 12 weeks. I've had two sets and contine to get IVIG every 3 weeks. I still walk with a cane on the better days and need a walker on the harder days and thus far there have been no noticeable changes, but I'm hopeful. Consequently I'm interested in your experiences, if you'd be willing to share. You can contact me via this post or privately through my posted email account. Thanks Keith |
Mmn
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Different responses to IVIg?
I'm on a trial of IVIg for a tentative MMN diagnosis. Lost functionality in left hand before treatment--no extension in thumb or index finger, plus my wrist is starting to feel funky. So far (after 3 monthly treatments) I only see a reduction in fasciculations and cramps, everywhere except my left arm & hand. Can it take a long time for improvement? Do these minor symptoms typically respond first?
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I have been on ivig every other week since January 2010. I am noticing less cramping but the weakness seems to have started increasing. This is the first time I have read about it in posts and I thought..wow...is this happening to others or have I just missed it before now?...
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