The use of intravenous immunoglobulin in autoimmune bullous diseases.

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been shown to be effective in the treatment of autoimmune blistering diseases and may be an option if disease is refractory to conventional treatment. IVIG effectiveness appears to increase when administered concurrently with a cytotoxic drug and used in multiple treatment cycles (though a single cycle may give benefit). Tapering administration may improve the duration of remission and subcutaneous injections may be an option. This article provides an introduction to the make-up and use of IVIG, and reviews previous studies.