IgG4-related disease of the central and peripheral nervous systems

Abstract

IgG4-related disease can involve nearly any organ system, including the central and peripheral nervous systems. The pathology findings are consistent from organ to organ, but careful clinicopathological correlation is necessary to establish the diagnosis. Many non-neurological and neurological inflammatory conditions, previously regarded as idiopathic in nature, are now recognised to fall within the spectrum of IgG4-related disease. The condition is highly treatable, but probably remains substantially under-recognised. In this Review, we offer an important and timely update on the current and emerging aspects of this neurological disease. Following a short overview of IgG4-related disease, we describe the current understanding of neurological findings, pathophysiology, approaches to diagnosis, and treatment of IgG4-related disease affecting the central and peripheral nervous systems.