IVIGassociated

IVIG-associated refers to adverse events or clinical manifestations attributed to intravenous immunoglobulin therapy (IVIG). The term is used to describe symptoms that occur during or after IVIG infusions and are considered related to the product or its administration rather than the underlying disease. Most IVIG courses are well tolerated, but a spectrum of reactions can occur.

Common, usually mild, reactions occur during or shortly after infusion and include headache, fever, chills, flushing, nausea, vomiting, myalgias, and generalized malaise. Infusion-related reactions may respond to slowing the infusion rate, pausing the infusion, premedication with acetaminophen or antihistamines, or adjusting the IVIG dose.

Serious but rare complications include aseptic meningitis, acute kidney injury, thromboembolic events, hemolysis with clinically significant anemia, hyponatremia, and, rarely, transfusion-related acute lung injury or anaphylaxis, particularly in individuals with IgA deficiency or anti-IgA antibodies. Risk may be influenced by product characteristics (notably IgA content), dose, rate of infusion, and patient factors such as renal function and cardiovascular status.

Prevention and management emphasize appropriate product selection and infusion parameters: use slower infusion rates, monitor closely, ensure adequate hydration, and consider low IgA-content products for IgA-deficient patients. If a severe reaction occurs, stop the infusion and provide emergency management as indicated. Overall, IVIG-associated reactions are usually mild and reversible; serious events are uncommon but require prompt recognition and treatment.