Abstract

Although initially used for immunodeficiency disorders, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been utilized as a prophylactic and therapeutic agent in a variety of other clinical conditions. The rapid growth in IVIG use is the result of improvements in IVIG preparations and reports of benefits in a number of unexpected clinical applications. IVIG has been used in such diverse diseases as primary immunodeficiencies, pediatric AIDS, low birth weight infants, bone marrow transplantation, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, Kawasaki syndrome and demylinating polyneuropathies. However, important questions about doses and mechanisms still remain. This review describes clinical applications of IVIG that are clearly indicated and approved by national regulatory agencies. Other clinical applications supported by convincing clinical trials are also described.