Human Immunoglobulin Preparations

This chapter discusses human immunoglobulin (Ig) and its preparations. Human immunoglobulins are commonly prepared from large pools of whole blood or apheresis derived plasma and are typically referred to as plasma derivatives. Ig preparations are concentrated, purified and sterilized, there by making the risk of infectious disease transmission from Ig virtually nil. Ig preparations can be made from intramuscular or intravenous administration and the clinical indications from Ig are many and varied. The chapter gives a description, indications, dosing, mechanism of action, preparation and storage, potential adverse events. Intravenous Immune globulin (IVIG) is derived from human plasma and is a highly purified product that consists mostly of IgG which has a half life of 21-28 days. In patients with primary immunodeficiency syndromes, there is decreased level of IgG and increased susceptibility to infections, prophylactic administration of IVIG reduces the number and duration of infections. The production of IVIG is regulated by the IUIS/WHO (International Union of Immunological Societies/World Health Organization) which has laid down specifications and these requirements are stated. © 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Duke Scholars

Author Beth H. Shaz Pathology