Use of human immunoglobulins in premature infants.
Past studies of the use of intramuscular (human immune serum globulin) or intravenous human immunoglobulins in the prevention or treatment of infections in premature infants are reviewed. Two of four studies of intramuscular preparations showed some evidence of benefit, as did three of four studies of intravenous preparations. Other possible uses of immunoglobulin in the newborn are reviewed. Studies in progress should indicate the safety and efficacy of this therapy; until these are completed, immunoglobulin therapy in the newborn is of promising but unproven efficacy.
Stiehm
E R
ER
Division of Immunology, UCLA Department of Pediatrics 90024.
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D007116:Immunization, Passive; D007136:Immunoglobulins / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007235:Infant, Premature, Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D017053:Infection Control; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D007273:Injections, Intramuscular
D007136:Immunoglobulins