Don’t use immunoglobulin therapy for recurrent infections unless impaired antibody responses to vaccines are demonstrated.

Immunoglobulin (gammaglobulin) replacement does not improve outcomes unless there is impairment of antigen-specific IgG antibody responses to vaccine immunizations or natural infections. Isolated decreases in immunoglobulins (isotypes or subclasses), alone, do not indicate a need for immunoglobulin replacement therapy. Exceptions include genetically defined/suspected disorders. Measurement of IgG subclasses is not routinely useful in determining the need for immunoglobulin therapy. Selective IgA deficiency is not an indication for administration of immunoglobulin.

 

Sources:

Rich R, et al. Clinical Immunology: Principles and Practice, 3rd edition. Elsevier; 2008.

Bonilla FA, et al. Practice parameter for the diagnosis and management of primary immunodeficiency. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2005 May;94(5 Suppl 1):S1-63. PMID: 15945566.

Orange JS, et al. Use of intravenous immunoglobulin in human disease: a review of evidence by members of the Primary Immunodeficiency Committee of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2006 Apr;117(4 Suppl):S525-53. PMID: 16580469.

Stiehm ER, et al. Therapeutic use of immunoglobulins. Adv Pediatr. 2010;57(1):185-218. PMID: 21056739.