Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 5, 2025
06:30
Ocular Therapeutic Delivery and Advanced Tissue Retrieval in Adult Rats
Published on: May 23, 2025
329
Potential intravenous immunoglobulin-induced optic disc edema
Anna K Britton1, Anagha Vaze2, Sam Milliken3,4
1Sydney Eye Hospital, 8 Macquarie St, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia.
American Journal of Ophthalmology Case Reports
|July 5, 2022
Summary
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) can cause recurrent optic disc edema, a condition also known as papilledema. This case highlights the importance of recognizing this potential side effect in patients receiving IVIG therapy.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Oncology
Background:
- Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a common therapy for various autoimmune and hematologic conditions.
- Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.
- Optic disc edema, or papilledema, is swelling of the optic nerve head.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old woman with NHL experienced recurrent bilateral optic disc edema after receiving IVIG on three occasions over seven years.
- Each episode was associated with headaches and transient visual disturbances.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) opening pressure was elevated, and symptoms resolved with acetazolamide treatment.
Findings:
- This case presents a unique instance of recurrent papilledema following IVIG administration.
- The temporal relationship between IVIG infusions and the onset of optic disc edema suggests a causal link.
- Resolution of symptoms with acetazolamide indicates a potential mechanism involving increased intracranial pressure.
Implications:
- This case is crucial for clinicians using IVIG, particularly in patients with hematologic malignancies.
- Physicians should be vigilant for symptoms of papilledema in patients receiving IVIG.
- Early recognition and management of IVIG-induced papilledema can prevent potential vision loss.
