Implementing evidence-based supportive care for patients with skin toxicity associated with epidermal growth factor inhibitors in an ambulatory care setting

Abstract

Immunoglobulin (Ig) therapy is increasingly being used for secondary antibody deficiency (SAD) in cancer patients with haematological malignancies. The aetiology of SAD can be attributed to the underlying condition or to the expanding range of treatments now available that target the immune system. Most often, immunodeficiency is clinically diagnosed as hypogammaglobulinaemia in patients with haematological malignancies and results in these patients being at a greater risk of acquiring an infection. The administration of Ig therapy to improve immunity in these patients has traditionally been intravenous and in hospital. However, subcutaneous Ig therapy is an innovative and alternative approach that can be more widely implemented in cancer centres and has the potential to allow home self-administration. This article reviews current Ig practice in adults with SAD and the subsequent implications on nurses and patients in Australia.