Transfusion reaction treated by IVIG?

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Specializes in Maternal - Child Health.

Can anyone direct me to information discussing the use of IVIG for a patient who has experienced a transfusion reaction resulting in severe hemolysis?

I'm not seeking medical advice. My friend has asked me to help her formulate questions for her physician (heme- onc specialist) who is proposing 1 or more infusions of IVIG to "counter-act" a presumed transfusion reaction believed to be the cause of severe anemia. I have Googled everything I can think of, and can't come up with any articles or websites that describe this use of IVIG. What I've read leads me to believe this is not a conventional treatment. I'd like to assist her to become informed about the risks/benefits so that she can make a thoughtful decision, but I'm at a loss.

I'd appreciate any reputable information. Thanks in advance!

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PACU.

We use it For hemolysis caused by ABO or Rh incompatibility, so it does make sense why he would use it. Just not a common use in adults.

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Specializes in allergy and asthma, urgent care.

As a former blood banker, I have read about it being used in the case of a life threatening hemolytic transfusion reaction in conjunction with IV steroids. In this particular case, the patient had sickle cell disease with multiple RBC antibodies and further transfusion was to be avoided unless as a last resort, and they needed to stop the ongoing hemolysis. I hope that the hospital transfusion service did a thorough workup on your friend and knows what caused the reaction.

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