Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a blood product administered through the veins that contains pooled immunoglobulins, primarily IgG, from thousands of donors to treat various autoimmune, inflammatory, and infectious diseases. It modulates the immune system by providing passive immunity and altering immune responses, making it a versatile treatment for conditions like primary immunodeficiency, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and Kawasaki disease.

Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG)

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a blood product administered intravenously, composed of pooled immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies extracted from the plasma of thousands of donors. It is used to treat a variety of autoimmune, infectious, and idiopathic diseases by modulating the immune system and providing passive immunity.

Intravenous immunoglobulin

IVIG

blood product

Immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies, are glycoproteins produced by plasma cells that play a crucial role in the immune response by identifying and neutralizing pathogens like bacteria and viruses. They are highly specific to antigens and exist in different classes, each with distinct functions and locations in the body.

immunoglobulins

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the most common type of antibody found in blood circulation, playing a crucial role in the body's immune response by identifying and neutralizing pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. It is also important in the context of passive immunity and is the only antibody class that can cross the placenta, providing protection to the fetus during pregnancy.

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. These diseases can affect almost any part of the body and are influenced by genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.

Autoimmune Diseases

Inflammatory diseases involve the immune system's overreaction, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage, which can affect various organs and systems. Understanding the underlying mechanisms and triggers is crucial for developing effective treatments and managing symptoms.

Inflammatory Diseases

Infectious diseases are disorders caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi, which can spread directly or indirectly between individuals. Understanding their transmission dynamics, prevention, and treatment is crucial to public health and the mitigation of outbreaks.

infectious diseases

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful pathogens and maintain overall health. It involves both innate and adaptive responses, which recognize and neutralize foreign invaders while also retaining memory for faster future responses.

immune system

Passive immunity involves the transfer of active humoral immunity in the form of ready-made antibodies from one individual to another, providing immediate but temporary protection against pathogens. This type of immunity can occur naturally, such as through maternal antibodies transferred to a fetus, or artificially, such as through the administration of immunoglobulin therapies.

passive immunity

Immune responses are the body's defense mechanisms against pathogens, involving both innate and adaptive systems to identify and eliminate foreign invaders. These responses are critical for maintaining health and involve a complex interplay of cells, proteins, and signaling pathways to ensure effective protection and memory against future infections.

immune responses

Treatment for primary immunodeficiency

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare neurological disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis that can be life-threatening if it affects respiratory muscles. Early diagnosis and treatment, typically with immunotherapy, can improve outcomes, but recovery may take weeks to years and some may experience lingering effects.

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