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Updated: May 22, 2026

An In vitro Model to Study Immune Responses of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells to Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Published on: December 10, 2013
RespiGam: an RSV immune globulin
1University of North Carolina Hospitals, Department of Pharmacy, in Chapel Hill, USA.
Insights
Respiratory syncytial virus immune globulin (RSV-IG) effectively prevents lower respiratory tract infections in high-risk infants. However, its high cost necessitates careful consideration for eligible candidates.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants.
- Infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) or born prematurely (<35 weeks gestation) are at higher risk for severe RSV disease.
- RSV immune globulin (RSV-IG) prophylaxis is available to reduce RSV-related morbidity in these vulnerable infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of RSV-IG in preventing or attenuating RSV lower respiratory tract infections.
- To discuss the cost-effectiveness and appropriate use of RSV-IG in eligible infant populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing clinical data on RSV-IG efficacy in infants with BPD or prematurity.
- Analysis of the economic implications of seasonal RSV-IG prophylaxis.
Main Results:
- RSV-IG has demonstrated effectiveness in preventing or reducing the severity of RSV lower respiratory tract infections in infants under 24 months with BPD or born prematurely.
- The estimated cost for seasonal prophylaxis ranges from $4,000 to $5,000 per infant.
Conclusions:
- RSV-IG is a valuable tool for protecting high-risk infants from severe RSV disease.
- The significant cost of RSV-IG, coupled with the potential risks associated with blood products, warrants careful patient selection for prophylaxis.
Abstract:
Respiratory syncytial virus immune globulin has been shown to prevent or attenuate RSV lower respiratory tract infection in infants under 24 months of age with BPD or who were born prematurely (< or = 35 weeks gestation). The use of RSV-IG is expensive. The estimated average cost of prophylaxis for a season is $4,000 to $5,000 per infant. Because of the cost of RSV-IG, and because viral transmission is possible when any blood product is administered, careful consideration of which children should receive RSV-IG is warranted.
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