Evidence for the use of intravenous immunoglobulins--a review of the literature

Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2010 Apr;38(2-3):201-69. doi: 10.1007/s12016-009-8155-9.

Abstract

Intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIg) were first introduced in the middle of the twentieth century for the treatment of primary immunodeficiencies. In 1981, Paul Imbach noticed an improvement of immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, in patients receiving IVIg for immunodeficiencies. This opened a new era for the treatment of autoimmune conditions with IVIg. Since then, IVIg has become an important treatment option in a wide spectrum of diseases, including autoimmune and acute inflammatory conditions, most of them off-label (not included in the US Food and Drug Administration recommendation). A panel of immunologists and internists with experience in IVIg therapy reviewed the medical literature for published data concerning treatment with IVIg. The quality of evidence was assessed, and a summary of the available relevant literature in each disease was given. To our knowledge, this is the first all-inclusive comprehensive review, developed to assist the clinician when considering the use of IVIg in autoimmune diseases, immune deficiencies, and other conditions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Humans
  • Immune System Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Immune System Diseases / immunology
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / immunology
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous