[TBE-immunoglobulins--a critical assessment of efficacy]

Abstract

Since there is no specific treatment for tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), immunoprophylaxis is used in endemic areas for controlling this disease. Active immunization has been shown to be effective and safe, and a restrictive immunization policy is generally accepted in Switzerland. However, the use of TBE-immunoglobulin for passive immunization after tick exposure is controversial. This article demonstrates that the published reports on the protection rate of TBE-immunoglobulin do not stand up to critical analysis. Efficacy has never been proved. Therefore, the use of TBE-immunoglobulin must be based upon practical or theoretical arguments. Routine administration of this preparation in endemic areas cannot be recommended.