Hemolytic events associated with intravenous immune globulin therapy: a qualitative analysis of 263 cases reported to four manufacturers between 2003 and 2012

Abstract

Data examined confirm that IVIG-associated hemolysis predominantly occurs following infusion of high IVIG doses, and can affect patients at every age of both genders. While presence of hemagglutinins appears to play a major role in pathogenesis of hemolytic disorders, high hemagglutinin titers of IVIG products themselves seem to be of less relevance, indicating that the pathomechanism of IVIG-associated hemolysis may be related to the presence, but not the absolute amount, of hemagglutinins. Patients with hemolysis had additional hemolytic risks such as multiple comorbidities and medication use. IG-treated patients with multiple risks should be closely monitored for hemolysis.