Specifications for anti-A and anti-B in intravenous immunoglobulin: history and rationale

Abstract

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) products are generally safe and efficacious, although treatment-related adverse reactions can occur in recipients. Adverse reactions include hemolysis in non-blood group O recipients linked to the passive transfer of anti-A and/or anti-B present in the fractionated immunoglobulin product. In light of the recent increase in reported cases of severe hemolysis associated with anti-A and/or anti-B, this article traces the development of pharmacopoeial specifications, tests, and reference reagents to control their titers in IVIG products.