Subcutaneous IgG in neurologic diseases

Abstract

Subcutaneous administration of IgG (SCIG) has become widely used in primary immune deficiency diseases but it has only recently been studied for maintenance therapy in autoimmune peripheral neuropathies, such as chronic idiopathic demyelinating polyneuropathy and multifocal motor neuropathy. Weekly self-administration of SCIG is safe and well-tolerated, and results in steady-state serum IgG levels, as contrasted with the peaks and troughs of monthly immune globulin (human) for intravenous use. Freedom from the need for venous access or medical personnel for infusions, flexibility in scheduling, convenience of home therapy, and improved clinical stability due to the steady-state IgG levels, lead many patients to prefer SCIG to immune globulin (human) for intravenous use. Long-term studies are needed to determine if the constant IgG levels and clinical stability translate into better long-term outcomes.