Evidence supporting the use of: Immunoglobulins
For the health condition: Meningitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Immunoglobulins in the Treatment of Meningitis: Scientific Evidence

Immunoglobulins (IVIG) are concentrated antibody preparations derived from pooled human plasma and are used in various infectious and immune-mediated conditions. Their use in meningitis is primarily supported by scientific evidence, particularly for specific types of meningitis and patient populations.

IVIG is not a standard treatment for routine bacterial or viral meningitis; antibiotics and supportive care remain the mainstay. However, IVIG may be used in certain scenarios:

  • Immunodeficient Patients: People with humoral immunodeficiencies (e.g., agammaglobulinemia) are at increased risk for recurrent meningitis, often due to encapsulated bacteria. IVIG is used prophylactically and therapeutically in these patients to reduce incidence and severity of infections, including meningitis.
  • Specific Pathogens: Some case reports and small studies have shown benefit in using IVIG adjunctively in severe meningococcal or pneumococcal meningitis, especially when complicated by sepsis or in patients with hypogammaglobulinemia.
  • Autoimmune/Inflammatory Meningitis: IVIG may be used for non-infectious, autoimmune causes of meningitis (e.g., autoimmune meningoencephalitis), guided by clinical experience and limited studies.

Overall, while not part of routine management for most patients with meningitis, there is scientific support for IVIG in select groups, reflected in clinical guidelines for immunodeficient populations and rare refractory cases. Large-scale randomized controlled trials are limited, so the evidence is rated as 4 out of 5.

More about Immunoglobulins
More about Meningitis

Other ingredients used for this condition

None

Products containing Immunoglobulins

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