Canadian consensus statement on the use of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy in dermatology.

BACKGROUND: As a safe, well-tolerated, and potentially beneficial therapy, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been increasingly used by dermatologists to treat immune-mediated skin disease. However, practical and comprehensive guidelines for the use of IVIG have yet to be established.

OBJECTIVE: To develop the first Canadian consensus statement on the use of IVIG therapy in skin disease.

METHODS: A group of Canadian dermatologists convened to discuss current issues in IVIG therapy. The participants reviewed and evaluated the literature and shared clinical experience. Using a modified Delphi process, a consensus statement was developed.

RESULTS: Herein we provide a brief overview of pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigus foliaceus, bullous pemphigoid, mucous membrane pemphigoid, epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Recommendations for the management of these diseases are detailed, and therapeutic algorithms for the treatment of various autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering diseases are presented. The appropriate use of IVIG therapy is placed in context for each disease.

CONCLUSION: Although preliminary data suggest that IVIG is a safe and effective therapy for many skin disorders, uncontrolled clinical trials, case series, and anecdotal case reports dominate the literature. Collaborative randomized controlled trials are required to firmly establish the role of IVIG in dermatology.