IMMUNOREGULATORY FUNCTION OF SPECIFIC IGG .2. CLINICAL EVALUATION OF COMBINED ACTIVE AND PASSIVE IMMUNOTHERAPY

  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 58  (1) , 30-37
Abstract
Based upon previous clinical data suggesting that the potential therapeutic benefits of hyperimmune specific Ig[immunoglobulin]G could involve neutralization and regulatory effects, this cooperative study evaluated the efficacy and safety of combined active and passive immunotherapy in previously untreated ragweed-sensitive patients. Symptom scores and indices of patients receiving ragweed-specific globulin plus rush desensitization with ragweed extract were significantly reduced (P < 0.05), as compared to control patients treated with albumin and active rush immunotherapy. Postseasonal RAST [radioallergosorbent test] levels were unchanged or decreased in 28 of 33 patients receiving hyperimmune .gamma.-globulin. These data were significantly different from those in albumin-treated patients (P < 0.002). The usual anamnestic rise of ragweed-specific IgE was modified without affecting the ongoing synthesis of ragweed specific IgG. Mild constitutional symptoms were observed in patients undergoing rush immunization, but the overall procedure was relatively well tolerated and no serious or treatment-refractory constitutional problems were encountered. Ragweed immune .gamma.-globulin might be a useful therapeutic adjunct when administered in close association with optimal amounts of allergen.