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Intravenous Immunoglobulin IVIG Therapy

Indications and administration principles in hematology

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Hematoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Intravenous Immunoglobulin IVIG Therapy?

Intravenous immunoglobulin or IVIG is a pooled human plasma derived product containing predominantly polyclonal IgG. It serves dual purposes as replacement therapy in primary and secondary antibody deficiency and as immunomodulator in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions when other therapies are insufficient or unsafe.

Hematological indications include immune thrombocytopenia where rapid platelet response is needed before procedures or with severe bleeding, autoimmune hemolytic anemia in selected resistant cases, and Evans syndrome. Neurological uses include Guillain Barre syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and myasthenia gravis crisis.

Standard dose for immunomodulation is one to two grams per kilogram divided over two to five days. Replacement therapy uses lower doses of four hundred to six hundred milligrams per kilogram every three to four weeks. Adverse effects include headache, aseptic meningitis, thromboembolism, renal injury and rare anaphylaxis in IgA deficient patients.

Symptoms

Therapy not a disease symptom
Headache during or after infusion
Aseptic meningitis with severe headache
Renal failure with high dose
Thromboembolic events at high dose

Risk Factors

Selective IgA deficiency anaphylaxis risk
Renal impairment baseline
Hyperviscosity at high dose
Cardiovascular comorbidity
Pregnancy with caution

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When ITP requires rapid platelet rise
  • When primary immunodeficiency is diagnosed
  • When Kawasaki disease is treated acutely
  • When Guillain Barre or CIDP needs treatment

Treatment Methods

01
Two grams per kilogram total for ITP
02
Four hundred milligrams per kilogram monthly for PID
03
Two grams per kilogram for Kawasaki disease
04
Slow infusion rate to limit headache
05
Hydration to protect renal function
06
IgA testing to anticipate anaphylaxis

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Hematoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.