Dexamethasone + IVIG for Fetal AV Block
Trial Summary
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are taking more than 20 mg of prednisone daily or any dose of fluorinated steroids.
Research shows that dexamethasone, a drug with anti-inflammatory properties, can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments, such as prolonging the duration of pain relief when combined with local anesthetics. Additionally, intravenous gamma-globulin (IVIG) has been used to prevent complications in other fetal conditions, suggesting potential benefits when combined with dexamethasone.
12345In a study on Kawasaki disease, the combination of Dexamethasone and IVIG was used without any serious side effects reported. Additionally, IVIG is known to have dose-related side effects, but these are generally manageable.
23678The combination of Dexamethasone and IVIG for treating fetal AV block is unique because it combines a steroid (Dexamethasone) known for reducing inflammation and immune responses with IVIG, which provides antibodies to help modulate the immune system. This dual approach may offer a novel way to manage the condition, as there are no standard treatments specifically for fetal AV block.
12349Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for pregnant women over 18 with high levels of anti-Ro antibodies, which are linked to fetal heart block. They must be able to monitor the baby's heart rate at home, send audio texts, live within a 6-hour drive of the cardiology site, and take oral medication. It excludes those with multi-fetal pregnancies or known allergies to the study drugs.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Trial Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Surveillance
Mothers perform fetal heart rate and rhythm monitoring (FHRM) 3 times daily and undergo weekly echocardiograms to detect 2° AVB.
Treatment
Rapid treatment of 2° AVB identified by FHRM and confirmed by echocardiogram, aiming to reverse 2° AVB before it becomes permanent.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including assessment of AV interval and extra-nodal cardiac disease.
Participant Groups
Dexamethasone is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada, Japan for the following indications:
- Inflammation
- Allergic reactions
- Respiratory diseases
- Skin conditions
- Eye diseases
- Immune system disorders
- Inflammatory conditions
- Allergic states
- Respiratory diseases
- Blood disorders
- Neoplastic diseases
- Nervous system disorders
- Inflammation
- Allergic reactions
- Respiratory diseases
- Skin conditions
- Eye diseases
- Inflammatory conditions
- Allergic states
- Respiratory diseases
- Blood disorders