The study, the first randomized trial in this area, shows that immunoglobulin administration reduces hospitalizations for fever. And it improves the quality of life for children with ALL. Pediatric oncologist/co-author Marc Bierings is proud: ‘The fact that we did a randomized trial is great news. After all, many clinicians suspected this result, but we proved it.’
Fewer hospitalizations
The study investigated whether intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) could prevent hospital admissions due to fever. During treatment for ALL, children's immune systems weaken, increasing the risk of infection. In the study, 177 children were randomly assigned to receive three-weekly IVIG prophylaxis or usual care. The results showed that children who received IVIG prophylaxis were less likely to be hospitalized for fever (206 times versus 271 in the control group). Although the number of bacterial infections was similar, IVIG was found to be particularly effective against fevers without a proven pathogen, most likely viral infections.
Measurement
According to Kirsten Thus, this study is an important step: ‘This is the first time we have shown in a randomized trial that immunoglobulins can reduce hospitalizations for fever. This can be a godsend for children who are often hospitalized with fevers. Although not all children need this treatment, it may be useful to measure immunoglobulin levels in children who are frequently hospitalized with fever.’