Subcutaneous immunoglobulins: a promising alternative for immunomodulation?

Abstract

Cumulative recent evidence from clinical trials, observational studies and case reports has shown that subcutaneous administration of immunoglobulin (SCIg) exerts similar immunomodulatory capacity than intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) in autoimmune neurological diseases. Besides the beneficial clinical effects, the profile of safety and autonomy for the patient is higher for SCIg, while it is cost-saving in terms of the health resources used. However, there are still very few approved indications for SCIg and a certain resistance to choose SCIg for other autoimmune conditions even despite patients' interests. Here we present an updated review of the known immunomodulatory mechanisms of action of Ig and the current hypothesis supporting the clinical and immunological advantages of SCIg over IVIg that derive from their specific pharmacokinetic features.