Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a blood product that contains purified antibodies from the plasma of healthy donors. It is used to treat a variety of conditions related to the immune system, including primary and secondary immunodeficiencies, autoimmune diseases, and certain neurologic disorders.

In dermatology, IVIG is sometimes used as an off-label treatment for various autoimmune blistering diseases. IVIG works by modulating the immune system through a variety of mechanisms, including neutralization of pathogenic antibodies, inhibition of complement activation, and modulation of cytokine production.

IVIG is administered intravenously over several hours and may require multiple doses over several weeks or months. Side effects are generally mild and may include headache, nausea, and flu-like symptoms. More serious side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions, kidney problems, and blood clots.

While IVIG is not typically considered a first-line treatment for autoimmune blistering diseases, it can be a useful option for patients who have not responded to other therapies or who have severe disease.

This quiz is designed to test your knowledge on the use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) in dermatology, including its mechanism of action, indications, dosing regimens, adverse effects, and drug interactions.

Successful completion of this quiz requires a good understanding of the various conditions treated with IVIG and the clinical applications of this therapy. We encourage you to review the associated learning module before taking the quiz.

Click on “Mark Quiz Complete” once completed to keep track of your learning in your dashboard.

Sources

  1. Bolognia JL: Dermatology, 4th ed; 2018.
  2. Stephen E Wolverton JJW: Comprehensive Dermatologic Drug Therapy 4th edn: Elsevier; 2020
  • Release Date: March 31 2023

  • Last Updated: March 31 2023

  • Time to complete: 30 minutes

  • Authors:

    • Dr. Zeinah Alhalees, MD, University of British Columbia.
    • Dr. Naif Aljahani, MD, Prince Sultan Military Medical City.
    • Dr. Elena Netchiporouk, MD, McGill University.