Understanding the Line Between Senility & Dementia
The words “senility” and “dementia” are sometimes used interchangeably, but there is a significant difference between the conditions. Learn how senility differs from dementia and why it matters.
Is Soliris® Right for Me?
Soliris® (eculizumab) is a prescription medication designed to treat specific autoimmune disorders. It targets the complement system, which is part of your body's natural immune defense.
If you're managing an autoimmune condition, you might be wondering if Soliris is an appropriate treatment option for you. Our team at Integrated Neurology Services is here to help you find answers. We offer comprehensive care for autoimmune disorders, and here, we provide more information about what Soliris is, how it works, and who may benefit from it.
How Soliris works
Soliris is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits the activation of complement protein C5. The complement system is a part of your immune system, and it enhances your body’s ability to fight infections by marking harmful pathogens for destruction and promoting inflammation.
This system consists of a series of proteins that work together to attack invading microbes and support the activity of white blood cells. But in certain autoimmune conditions, your complement system becomes overactive and attacks your body's own cells.
By binding to C5, Soliris prevents it from breaking into C5a and C5b, and eventually, complement complex C5b-9. This action helps reduce complement-mediated damage in these autoimmune conditions.
Conditions that Soliris can treat
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Soliris for the treatment of several conditions, including:
- Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH): a rare blood disorder characterized by the destruction of red blood cells, leading to anemia and other complications
- Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS): a condition causing abnormal blood clot formation in small blood vessels, which can lead to kidney failure
- Generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG): an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that leads to weakness in your skeletal muscles
- Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD): a condition in which your immune system attacks your central nervous system, particularly the optic nerves and spinal cord
Soliris works to reduce the destruction of red blood cells and decrease inflammation, alleviating symptoms associated with these conditions.
Are you a good candidate for Soliris?
Determining whether Soliris is right for you depends on several factors, and the Integrated Neurology Services team is here to help you make an informed decision. We specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of autoimmune disorders, and we start by considering factors like your specific diagnosis, disease severity, and overall health.
You might be considered a candidate for Soliris if:
- You have a confirmed diagnosis a specific condition like PNH, aHUS, gMG, and NMOSD
- Standard treatments haven't been effective or you're experiencing significant side effects
- You're at risk for disease complications, such as kidney failure from aHUS
We review the potential benefits and risks of Soliris with you. If you move ahead with Soliris, our comfortable, in-office infusion suite ensures that you receive treatment in a convenient and supportive environment.
Are you exploring treatment options for an autoimmune disorder and considering Soliris? Book an appointment and let us help guide you through the decision-making process and provide the care you need. Call us at 703-313-9111 or request an appointment online at one of our clinics in Alexandria, Falls Church, and Lorton, Virginia, today.
You Might Also Enjoy...
What Are Medial Branch Blocks?
Medial branch blocks are a minimally invasive pain management option that can help diagnose and relieve chronic back or neck pain. By targeting the medial branch nerves, these injections can provide significant pain relief. Here’s how they work.
4 Ways to Get More Restful Sleep
Are you often tired because you spend so much of your nights tossing and turning instead of sleeping? Learn more about the importance of restful sleep and how to improve your chances of getting it consistently.
Infusion Therapy: Which Option Should You Choose?
Infusion therapy is a powerful way to manage chronic and inflammatory conditions. It delivers medications directly into your bloodstream for maximum effectiveness — and it’s a personalized method that could help you regain control of your health.
5 Ways to Manage Your Migraine During the Workday
Migraine pain can make a workday excruciating if you’re not prepared. Learn five quick tips to ease the pain of a migraine or ward off an oncoming episode, so you can stay productive.
Nap Studies vs. Home Sleep Studies: Which is Best for You?
Nap studies and in-home sleep studies are diagnostic tools used to identify sleep disorders that can increase your risk for chronic disease. Learn more about the similarities and differences between the studies.