Adverse Effects of Immunoglobulin Therapy

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Immunoglobulin therapy is a cornerstone treatment for immunodeficiency, neuromuscular, and Kawasaki diseases.
• Clinical trials confirm immunoglobulin's efficacy and tolerability, yet adverse effects remain a concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the adverse effects associated with immunoglobulin therapy.
• To identify risk factors and mitigation strategies for immunoglobulin-related adverse events.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of clinical trials and reported adverse events.
• Analysis of immunoglobulin preparation types and patient-specific factors.

Main Results:

• Common adverse effects include mild, transient symptoms like fever and headache.
• Serious adverse events, though rare, encompass renal impairment, thrombosis, and TRALI.
• Adverse effects are linked to specific immunoglobulin products and patient variability.

Conclusions:

• Risk assessment, slow infusion rates, premedication, and considering subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG) can reduce adverse events.
• Most adverse effects are manageable with supportive care, leading to good patient prognoses.