IG and HG

Q: What's the difference between immune globulin (IG) and hyperimmune globulin (HG)?

Answer:

Immune globulin is derived from the plasma of random donors. It can be used for an array of disorders, including primary and secondary immune deficiency states, as well as many autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. It is mainly given intravenously (IVIG), but can also be given subcutaneously (SCIG) or intramuscularly (IMIG). Additives and stabilizers are usually added to the product.

Hyperimmune globulin refers to immune globulin obtained from the plasma of individuals with high titers of specific antibodies to certain pathogens, or from individuals immunized or naturally exposed to particular antigens. In some diseases, it can also be obtained from animals.

#immunology

References:

1. Schroeder HW Jr, Cavacini L. Structure and function of immunoglobulins. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010 Feb;125(2 Suppl 2):S41-52. doi: 10.1016/j.jaci.2009.09.046. PMID: 20176268; PMCID: PMC3670108.

2. Novaretti MC, Dinardo CL. Immunoglobulin: production, mechanisms of action and formulations. Rev Bras Hematol Hemoter. 2011;33(5):377-82. doi: 10.5581/1516-8484.20110102. PMID: 23049343; PMCID: PMC3415776.

3. Pati I, Cruciani M, Candura F, Massari MS, Piccinini V, Masiello F, Profili S, De Fulvio L, Pupella S, De Angelis V. Hyperimmune Globulins for the Management of Infectious Diseases. Viruses. 2023 Jul 13;15(7):1543. doi: 10.3390/v15071543. PMID: 37515229; PMCID: PMC10385259.