Immunoglobulin therapy serves two primary purposes. Firstly, it addresses cases of ‘humoral immunodeficiency’, where the body fails to produce sufficient antibodies. Through intravenous (IVIG) or subcutaneous (SCIG) administration, Immunoglobulin therapy supplements these deficient antibodies, bolstering the body’s ability to combat infections preemptively. Consistency in therapy is paramount for individuals reliant on Immunoglobulin treatment for humoral immunodeficiency.

Secondly, Immunoglobulin therapy becomes crucial in managing autoimmune diseases, wherein the immune system mistakenly targets specific cells or proteins within the body. By inundating the immune system with additional antibodies, experts suggest that Immunoglobulin therapy may deter the body from attacking its own cells. Notable autoimmune conditions benefiting from this therapy include

• Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP): CIDP is a neurological disorder characterized by chronic inflammation affecting the peripheral nerves. In this condition, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath, a protective covering of the nerves, leading to demyelination. This results in impaired nerve function and can manifest as weakness, tingling, numbness, and loss of sensation, particularly in the extremities. CIDP is progressive and can cause significant disability if left untreated.
• Hemolytic Anemia: Hemolytic anemia is a condition where there is accelerated destruction of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the bloodstream or within the spleen. This accelerated destruction can occur due to various factors, including autoimmune disorders, infections, certain medications, or inherited conditions. As a result, the body cannot adequately replace the destroyed red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms of hemolytic anemia may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and dark-colored urine.
• Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS): Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare but serious autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system. This results in inflammation and damage to the myelin sheath of the nerves, disrupting nerve function and causing muscle weakness, numbness, and tingling. GBS often begins with weakness and tingling sensations in the legs and can progress to affect the arms and upper body, potentially leading to paralysis in severe cases. It can also affect autonomic functions such as blood pressure and heart rate.
• Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): Immune thrombocytopenia is a disorder characterized by a low platelet count due to the immune system mistakenly attacking and destroying platelets, which are essential for blood clotting. This autoimmune response can lead to an increased risk of bleeding and bruising, as the body’s ability to form blood clots is impaired. Symptoms of ITP may include easy bruising, nosebleeds, petechiae (small red or purple spots on the skin), and in severe cases, excessive bleeding that can be life-threatening.