title: Mechanisms of IVIG action in immune thrombocytopenic purpura.
abstract: Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been an important therapy of immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) for more than 20 years; however, questions still remain regarding the mechanisms of IVIG action in ITP. Recent reviews have focused on the hypotheses that IVIG effects are mediated via inhibition of Fc-receptor mediated platelet phagocytosis, suppression of anti-platelet antibody production, and anti-idiotypic inhibition of anti-platelet antibodies; however, new research suggests that a significant portion of IVIG benefit may be due to IVIG-mediated acceleration of the elimination of anti-platelet antibodies. It is anticipated that promising new therapies of ITP, and other autoimmune conditions, will be developed based on a better understanding of IVIG mechanism of action.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14260, USA.
authors.forename: Ryan J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Hansen
authors.forename: Joseph P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Balthasar
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001323:Autoantibodies / Q000276:immunology; D001792:Blood Platelets / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D007116:Immunization, Passive; D016756:Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D016553:Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / Q000276:immunology* / Q000628:therapy*
chemical_list: D001323:Autoantibodies; D016756:Immunoglobulins, Intravenous