Appropriate uses of human immunoglobulin in clinical practice: memorandum from an IUIS/WHO meeting.

There is a consensus among clinical immunologists that an effort should be made to define the criteria and indications for the administration of immunoglobulin to patients. This Memorandum sets out current recommendations for the use and dosage of immunoglobulin in the prophylaxis of viral and bacterial infections, and in replacement of antibodies in immunodeficient patients. It also points out clearly the situations where immunoglobulin is not useful or is contraindicated. The report also summarizes the current knowledge on adverse reactions to immunoglobulin injection, and outlines the qualities required for safe and useful immunoglobulin preparations.