[The clinical use of polyvalent immunoglobulin preparations]

A short survey is given of the indication for the use of polyvalent human immunoglobulin (human gamma globulin). The effect for the prophylaxis in hepatitis A is ascertained. The indication in the primary antibody deficiency syndrome is obligatory. In the secondary antibody deficiency syndrome with a moderate decrease of the immunglobulins as a rule a substitution is not indicated. A general prophylaxis or adjuvant therapy in surgical interventions, in polychemotherapy and in the framework of an intensive therapy without presence of an immune defect is to be refused. If in individual cases in sepsis, burn diseases or therapy-refractory infections additionally immunoglobulins are given, this must be done in high dosage. The modulation of immune reactions in autoimmunopathies is a new indication. Hyperimmunoglobulin and monoclonal antibodies will in future determine the immunoglobulin therapy.