Does IVIg administration yield improved immune function in very premature neonates

J. L. Wynn, P. C. Seed, C. M. Cotten

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

25 Scopus citations

Abstract

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) has been evaluated as an adjunctive therapy for neonatal sepsis with modest clinical success despite strong biological plausibility. Multiple factors contribute to this outcome, but perhaps none greater than the limited immune system function in newborns, especially in the very premature neonates. For very premature neonates (<30 weeks gestational age), understanding the effects of IVIg on specific immature immune system functions is particularly relevant given their preponderance to develop sepsis and therefore potentially benefit from IVIg-mediated immunoenhancement. Here, we review the available evidence for enhanced immune function after IVIg administration in very premature neonates and highlight areas for future research.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)635-642
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Perinatology
Volume30
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2010

Keywords

  • IVIg
  • immune function
  • neonate
  • premature
  • sepsis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Does IVIg administration yield improved immune function in very premature neonates'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this