Uses of immune globulins in the prophylaxis and treatment of viral infections.

Immune globulin preparations clearly provide safe and effective passive prophylaxis in a variety of viral infections: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, primary varicella zoster, measles, rubella, and rabies. When available, specific preparations (HBIG, VZIG, RIG) should be used. The use of CMVIG remains controversial at this time. Only recently have immunoglobulins been used for therapy of viral infections; however, their use in Kawasaki disease, AIDS, and echovirus in patients with hypogammaglobulinemia appears promising.