High-dose intravenous immunoglobulins: an approach to treat severe immune-mediated and autoimmune diseases of the skin

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2001 Jun;44(6):1010-24. doi: 10.1067/mjd.2001.112325.

Abstract

Adjuvant high-dose intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIgs) are being used increasingly in a range of immune-mediated and autoimmune diseases. Although numerous immunomodulatory mechanisms have been suggested, the exact mechanisms of action are poorly understood. The efficacy of IVIg in certain diseases has been proven in clinical trials, insofar as IVIg is approved as the therapy of choice for Kawasaki syndrome or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. IVIg treatment has been shown to be safe, without the many drug-related adverse effects, including systemic immunosuppression, that are related to corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents. Current dermatologic uses of IVIg are increasing, which calls for adequately controlled clinical trials. This review focuses on experiences with IVIg therapy for skin diseases and discusses current opinion concerning its potential immunomodulating mechanisms.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmune Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / pathology
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / immunology
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use*
  • Skin Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Skin Diseases / immunology*
  • Skin Diseases / pathology

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous