Multiple dose IVIG treatment in neonatal immune hemolytic jaundice

Abstract

Isoimmune hemolytic jaundice due to ABO and Rh blood group incompatibility is an important problem in the neonatal period. Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) treatment in isoimmune jaundice has been shown to be effective, but the response to treatment is variable. In this study, the effect of multiple doses IVIG therapy versus single dose IVIG therapy was investigated in 61 babies who had ABO and Rh hemolytic disease. Patients were divided into three groups. Group I received multiple dose IVIG treatment, group II received single dose IVIG treatment, and group III was not given any IVIG. All three groups received phototherapy. No exchange transfusion was needed in group I. The rate of exchange transfusion was 12 per cent in group II and 33 per cent in group III. Duration of phototherapy was shorter in group I than in groups II and III. It was concluded that IVIG treatment reduces the need of exchange transfusion in neonatal isoimmune hemolytic jaundice by lowering hemolysis. Multiple doses IVIG treatment appears to be better at blocking ongoing hemolysis.