Self-infusion Programmes for Immunoglobulin Replacement at Home: Feasibility, Safety and Efficacy

Home gammaglobulin therapy: a patient survey of intravenous and subcutaneous options in Canada

“…It has been previously suggested that patients may prefer SCIG treatment Bhole et al 2008). Contrarily, our study shows that the 91 IVIG patients surveyed are more likely to switch to home IVIG rather than to SC (Figure 4).…”

“…Quality of life is recognized as the patient's perception of the impact of disease and treatment on daily life. Previous studies have demonstrated an improved quality of life because of decreased time loss from school or work, lower costs, greater independence, better knowledge of their condition, fewer interruptions with daily activities, increased self-confidence, and better disease management (Sorensen et al 1897;Ochs et al 1986;Sigstad et al 2005;Bhole et al 2008). Surprisingly, patients in our study ranked quality of life as second last in terms of convenience for home therapy (Table 5).…”

“…Safety and efficacy IVIG has been previously shown to be effective in reducing infections and improving outcomes for lung disease (Roifman et al 1987;Chapel et al 2000;Bhole et al 2008). In this survey, patients confirmed they have had a decrease in the frequency of infections as well as improved energy, concentration, and performance.…”

“…A limited number of small and uncontrolled clinical trials have been conducted suggesting a patient preference for home therapy (Gardulf et al 1995a;Abrahamsen et al 1996;Hansen et al 2002;Gardulf et al 2004;Bhole et al 2008). In fact, SCIG has only been widely used in Sweden, a country that traditionally did not use IVIG (Berger 2004).…”

“…This may reflect patients' anxiety over fewer doctor visits (Table 6, ranked second for inappropriateness) for patients under 35 years of age as well as for parents and patients at teaching hospitals. Some of these concerns may be alleviated by robust training and education of patients, association to an infusion center, and access to national patient PID organizations (Asthida and Saxon 1986;Ochs et al 1986;Ochs et al 1987;Sorensen et al 1987;Chapel et al 1988;Kobayashi et al 1990;Brennan et al 1995;Sigstad et al 2005;Bhole et al 2008). …”