Immunoglobulin Therapy
(Intravenous Immunoglobulin [IVIg; IgG])
How to Say It: Im-mu-no-glob-u-lin
Definition
Immunoglobulin therapy (IgG) is the use of donated immunoglobulins from a healthy person. These are special proteins in the blood that fight infection. They are also known as antibodies.
Immune SystemCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. |
Reasons for Procedure TOP
IgG is used to treat problems with the immune system. This can be from:
- The body attacking its own healthy cells
- Having repeated infections because the body cannot fight them
- Diseases that make the immune system weak
IgG can also lower inflammation in the body. This makes the immune system work better.
Possible Complications TOP
Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Fluid in the lungs
- Kidney damage
- A reaction to the IgG
What to Expect TOP
Prior to Procedure
The care team may meet with you to talk about:
- Any allergies you may have
- Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take
Description of the Procedure
An IV needle will be placed into a vein in the arm. A small tube is left in the arm when the needle is removed. This lets the fluid drain into the vein. The solution is in a bag. It hangs above and next to you.
How Long Will It Take? TOP
About 5 to 6 hours
Will It Hurt? TOP
Most people do not have lasting pain.
Post-procedure Care TOP
At the Hospital
Right after the procedure, the staff may:
- Monitor you for side effects
- Schedule another IgG if needed
At Home
Most people start to feel better 1 to 2 days after the IgG. Some people may not feel better for 3 to 4 weeks.
Call Your Doctor TOP
Call your doctor if you are not feeling better or you have:
- Redness and swelling at the IV site
- A headache that does not go away
- Breathing problems
- Lightheadedness
- Blue tint to the skin, lips, or nails
- Hives, rash, or itching
- Speaking problems
- Confusion
- Fast heartbeat
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or belly cramps
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.
RESOURCES:
American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association
https://www.aarda.org
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
https://www.niaid.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian AIDS Society
https://www.cdnaids.ca
HealthLink BC
https://www.healthlinkbc.ca
REFERENCES:
Hoernes M, Seger R, et al. Modern management of primary B-cell immunodeficiencies. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2011 Dec;22(8):758-769.
IgG deficiency. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/igg-deficiency. Accessed December 9, 2020.
Immunoglobulin (IgG) replacement therapy. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology website. Available at: https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/conditions-dictionary/immunoglobulin-(IgG)-replacement-therapy. Accessed December 9, 2020.
Immunoglobulin therapy & other medical therapies for antibody deficiencies. Immune Deficiency Foundation website. Available at: https://primaryimmune.org/treatment-information/immunoglobulin-therapy. Accessed December 9, 2020.
Last reviewed September 2020 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Marcin Chwistek, MD
Last Updated: 4/21/2021