Nuts and Bolts of Subcutaneous Therapy

Immunol Allergy Clin North Am. 2020 Aug;40(3):527-537. doi: 10.1016/j.iac.2020.04.002. Epub 2020 Jun 9.

Abstract

Immunoglobulin replacement therapy is standard of care in treatment of many primary immunodeficiency diseases. The goal of replacement therapy is to reduce infections in individuals with primary immune deficiency and improve their quality of life. Immunoglobulin replacement therapy is most often lifelong, therefore ease of administration is vital for adherence to treatment. Self-infusion via subcutaneous intravenous immunoglobulin (SCIG) allows patient input to design an individualized and optimal treatment plan. Because SCIG regimens are flexible and allow for increased autonomy, patients receiving SCIG report improved quality of life. This article summarizes the dosing, administration, and adverse event management of SCIG infusions.

Keywords: Immune deficiency; Immunoglobulin replacement therapy; SCIG; Subcutaneous infusion.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Decision-Making
  • Disease Management
  • Disease Susceptibility
  • Drug Monitoring
  • Humans
  • Immunization, Passive* / adverse effects
  • Immunization, Passive* / methods
  • Immunoglobulins / administration & dosage*
  • Immunoglobulins / adverse effects
  • Immunoglobulins / pharmacology
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Infusions, Subcutaneous
  • Injections, Subcutaneous
  • Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases / diagnosis
  • Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases / etiology
  • Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous