immunoglobulin replacement therapy
Treatment involving administration of pooled human immunoglobulins to patients with antibody deficiencies.
Full Definition
A therapeutic intervention used to provide passive immunity in patients with primary or secondary immunodeficiencies affecting antibody production. The therapy involves regular infusions of immunoglobulins derived from thousands of healthy donors, providing broad-spectrum antibody coverage. It can be administered intravenously (IVIG) or subcutaneously (SCIG). The treatment is lifelong for most patients with severe antibody deficiencies and requires careful monitoring of immunoglobulin levels and clinical response. Proper editorial usage emphasizes the replacement aspect rather than supplementation.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'replacement' rather than 'supplementation' to emphasize therapeutic necessity.
In Context
- "The patient was started on immunoglobulin replacement therapy following diagnosis of common variable immunodeficiency." — Treatment plan documentation
- "Response to immunoglobulin replacement therapy was monitored through serial trough levels and infection frequency." — Clinical progress note