Immunoglobulin infusion factsheet

Introduction

An Immunoglobulin (Ig) infusion is a treatment that gives antibodies to help fight infection or help control the immune system. Immunoglobulins are made from plasma donated by thousands of healthy people. The plasma is prepared to make a strong solution of antibodies called immunoglobulins. 

Immunoglobulin are given in two ways: 

Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg): through a drip into a vein, in hospital every few weeks 

Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin (SCIg): under the skin using a small needle, usually weekly at home, after training  

A child might need immunoglobulin infusions if they:  

  • have an immunodeficiency: when the body cannot make enough antibodies to fight or protect against germs
  • have an overactive immune system: when the body attacks its own cells and needs help to be cared for

 Before the treatment

The doctor will talk to you and your child about: 

  • your child’s health and why they think immunoglobulin infusions are needed
  • which immunoglobulin infusion type is most suitable
  • the risks and benefits
  • whether a medication may be given before the infusion to lower side effects  

If you or your child are worried, speak to your doctor or nurse. They can answer your questions and provide information tailored to your child.

Consent 

Before the immunoglobulin infusion, a parent or legal guardian will need to provide consent for: 

  • your child to receive an immunoglobulin infusion
  • the collection and use of your child’s health information  

The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood uses this information to make sure the correct immunoglobulin product is supplied to the right hospital and child. 

 During the treatment

Your child will be closely monitored by a nurse. Throughout the infusion the nurse will check your child’s: 

  • temperature
  • heart rate
  • blood pressure
  • breathing rate 

The nurse or doctor can slow down or stop the infusion if your child feels unwell. Tell them straight away if you have any concerns, your child feels unwell or has:

  • a headache
  • a fever
  • itching
  • pain

 After the treatment

Most children tolerate immunoglobulin infusions very well. Some children may have mild side effects that last 1-3 days.  

Common side effects 

  • tiredness
  • mild headache
  • fever or chills
  • nausea or vomiting
  • redness or swelling at the injection site (for SCIg)
  • fast heart rate
  • stomach or back pain 

Tell a nurse or doctor if your child feels unwell or if you are concerned. Doctors and nurses can easily take care of many mild side effects. 

Rare but serious side effects 

Serious side effects are rare. Go to your local Emergency Department if your child has any of these symptoms:  

  • strong headache with nausea, vomiting or fever
  • chest pain
  • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • tongue or throat swelling  

 Management

Safety of Immunoglobulin Products  

Australia has one of the safest blood supplies in the world. All blood donors are carefully screened and must meet a strict eligibility criteria to be able to donate.  

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood service tests all blood donations for infections that can be passed to others through blood, including: 

Immunoglobulin is made from donated plasma and is not the same as getting a whole blood transfusion.