Abstract

Long term intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) infusion is an effective treatment for children with immunodeficiencies, but can be complicated by poor venous access, systemic adverse reactions, and the need for frequent hospital admission. Rapid subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG) infusion has been found to be effective in adults with primary immunodeficiency. Twenty six children were treated with SCIG for a median period of two years (range six months to 3.5 years). Fifteen children had previously been treated with IVIG. Retrospective analysis showed that trough IgG concentrations while receiving SCIG were comparable with those while receiving IVIG during maintenance treatment. In severe hypogammaglobulinaemia, however, initial loading with SCIG or IVIG is probably indicated. During the treatment period there was no systemic adverse reaction nor severe reaction requiring admission to hospital. The subjective impression of all families was a significant improvement in the quality of life. This preliminary experience with SCIG in children suggests that it is an effective, convenient, and well tolerated alternative to intravenous treatment. Larger prospective studies are required to determine the place of SCIG in the management of immunodeficiencies.