Passive immunization for the treatment of HIV infection.

Neutralizing antibodies are a component of the immune response to acute human immunodeficiency virus infection. Levels of these antibodies diminish with the clinical progression of HIV disease. The results of several clinical studies of humoral passive immunization for advanced HIV disease suggest no clear antiviral or immune-enhancing effect. However, some studies reported delay in the occurrence of opportunistic infections and prolongation of life. Further studies are needed to more specifically define the role of humoral immune response in preventing and controlling HIV infection, and the potential for augmentation of these responses in prophylaxis and treatment.