From the Research
Yes, IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) does elevate total protein levels in the blood. IVIG is a blood product made from pooled plasma donors and consists primarily of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies, which are proteins. When administered, typically at doses ranging from 0.4-2 g/kg depending on the condition being treated, IVIG directly increases the protein content in the bloodstream. This elevation in total protein is expected and can persist for several weeks following administration, with the half-life of IgG being approximately 21-28 days. The increase in protein levels is most pronounced immediately after infusion and gradually decreases as the immunoglobulins are metabolized.
Key Points to Consider
- Healthcare providers should be aware of this effect when interpreting laboratory results after IVIG therapy, as the elevated protein levels are a normal consequence of treatment rather than a sign of disease.
- This protein elevation is particularly important to consider when evaluating patients with conditions where protein levels are monitored, such as multiple myeloma or other plasma cell disorders.
- According to a study published in the American journal of hematology 1, IVIG therapy results in post-infusional hyperproteinemia, increased serum viscosity, and pseudohyponatremia, which supports the notion that IVIG elevates total protein levels.
- Other studies, such as those published in Acta paediatrica 2, Journal of tropical pediatrics 3, Journal of neurology 4, and Scandinavian journal of immunology 5, also provide evidence of the effects of IVIG on protein levels and other laboratory parameters, although they may not directly address the question of whether IVIG elevates total protein levels.
Clinical Implications
- The elevation of total protein levels after IVIG administration should be taken into account when interpreting laboratory results, especially in patients with conditions that require monitoring of protein levels.
- Healthcare providers should be cautious when interpreting laboratory results after IVIG therapy to avoid misattributing the elevated protein levels to underlying disease activity.
- The effects of IVIG on protein levels and other laboratory parameters should be carefully monitored, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions that may be affected by changes in protein levels.