The interference of laboratory tests by immunoglobulin infusion: Problems and solutions

Abstract

Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been increasingly used in managing a variety of immune-mediated conditions. While patients benefit from this treatment, the infusion of IVIG has transmitted large variety of antibodies and biological agents from donors to patients, and transiently interfered a broad spectrum of clinical laboratory tests covering the fields of infectious and autoimmune serology, biochemistry, haematology and blood bank, delivering spurious results that could potentially cause extensive evaluation and inappropriate clinical interventions. The medical practitioners and laboratory professionals must improve the awareness of test interferences caused by IVIG infusion. Proactive actions and appropriate strategy for investigating and interpreting the affected laboratory tests must be taken to avoid adverse impact on patient’s care.