Immunoglobulin replacement therapy in children

Immunol Allergy Clin North Am. 2008 Nov;28(4):833-49, ix. doi: 10.1016/j.iac.2008.07.001.

Abstract

The benefit of immunoglobulin (IG) replacement in primary antibody deficiencies is unquestionable. Many of these congenital disorders present early in life and this therapy is often first implemented in the young. This article focuses on the indications of IG replacement in children, with an emphasis on the specific diagnostic problems encountered in this population. Also presented is an overview of the practical aspects of IG administration in the pediatric setting, including the recognition and management of adverse reactions. Finally, the advent of subcutaneous IG, a therapeutic IG modality with the potential to have a great impact on the quality of life of children with antibody deficiencies and their families, is discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Drug Dosage Calculations
  • HIV Infections / immunology
  • HIV Infections / therapy
  • Humans
  • Immunization, Passive / adverse effects
  • Immunization, Passive / economics
  • Immunization, Passive / methods*
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes / genetics
  • Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes / immunology
  • Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes / therapy*
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infusion Pumps
  • Injections, Subcutaneous
  • Sepsis / immunology
  • Sepsis / therapy