Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy Research Articles

Relationships between bronchiectasis and time to achieving target trough immunoglobulin G levels in patients with common variable immunodeficiency.

Background: The main treatment of common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is to maintain immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels within the target range. However, trough IgG levels differ among patients with similar body mass index (BMI) and those receiving the same dose of immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IGRT). A crucial factor that underlies these differences is the presence of extensive bronchiectasis, which is associated with the immunoglobulin salvage pathway. Objective: We compared trough IgG levels in patients with CVID and with and in those without bronchiectasis who had received the same dose of IGRT for 2 years to determine the association of IgG level with infection frequency. Method: This retrospective cohort study included 61 patients with CVID, of whom 21 had bronchiectasis. We reviewed the electronic records for demographic variables, baseline immunoglobulin levels, mean trough IgG levels over 2 years, efficacy levels (trough IgG level - baseline IgG level), the time interval from treatment initiation to achieving the target trough IgG level (700 mg/dL), and the number of infections. Results: The median age of the patients was 39 years (IQR, 27-51), and 29 were women (47.5%). There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, age at diagnosis, delay in diagnosis, sex, BMI, IGRT type (subcutaneous or intravenous), and baseline immunoglobulin levels. Trough IgG and efficacy levels were lower (P < 0.001 and P = 0.016, respectively), the time required to achieve the target IgG level was longer in patients with bronchiectasis than in those without bronchiectasis, and this time interval was significantly associated with the infection frequency. Trough IgG and albumin levels were correlated (p = 0.007), with minor differences between the groups (p = 0.04). Conclusion: Bronchiectasis was significantly associated with a longer time to achieve the target IgG levels. These long-term differences between the patients with and those without bronchiectasis have significant clinical implications.

IgA nephropathy in a child with X-linked agammaglobulinemia: a case report

BackgroundX-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA) is a primary immunodeficiency disease caused by mutations in the Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) gene. Individuals diagnosed with XLA are at an increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases. However, renal involvement are rare in cases of XLA.Case presentationIn this report, we discussed a specific case involving a 6-year-old boy with XLA who experienced recurrent upper respiratory tract infections since the age of one. He presented with symptoms of hematuria and proteinuria, and renal pathology confirmed the presence of immunoglobulin (Ig) A nephropathy. Treatment comprised glucocorticoids, mycophenolate mofetil, and intermittent intravenous immunoglobulin replacement therapy. Consequently, there was a remission of proteinuria and a partial improvement in hematuria.ConclusionsIn this study, we describe the first case of IgA nephropathy associated with XLA. This is an interesting phenotype found in XLA, and it provides valuable insights into the process of autoimmunity and the regulation of immune function in individuals with XLA. Based on our findings, we recommend the evaluation of immunoglobulin levels in patients diagnosed with IgA nephropathy.

Effectiveness of immunoglobulin replacement therapy in preventing infections in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review

PurposeImmunoglobulin replacement therapy is a standard treatment for patients with antibody production deficiencies, which is of interest in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This systematic review, registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021281118), assessed the current literature regarding immunoglobulin replacement therapy on COPD clinical outcomes in patients with low immunoglobulin G (IgG) serum concentrations.MethodsLiterature searches conducted from inception to August 23, 2021, in databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL. Population (sex, age, comorbidities), baseline clinical characteristics (pulmonary function testing results, IgG levels), and outcome (hospitalizations, emergency department visits) were extracted after title/abstract and full text screening. The Cochrane risk of bias assessment form was used for risk of bias assessment of randomized controlled trials and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) assessment was used for pre and post studies.ResultsA total of 1381 studies were identified in the preliminary search, and 874 records were screened after duplicates were removed. Screening 77 full texts yielded four studies that were included in the review.ConclusionIt is unclear whether immune globulin replacement therapy reduces acute exacerbation frequency and severity in COPD. Current evidence suggests that it is worth considering, but better developed protocols for administration of immune globulin supplementation is required for future randomized controlled trials.

Neutralization of Rubella Vaccine Virus and Immunodeficiency-Related Vaccine-Derived Rubella Viruses by Intravenous Immunoglobulins.

The association between granulomas and vaccine-derived rubella virus (VDRV) in people with primary immune deficiencies (PID) has raised concerns about the ability of immunoglobulin (IG) preparations to neutralize VDRVs. We investigated the capacity of IG to neutralize rubella vaccine virus and four VDRV strains. As expected, the rubella vaccine virus itself was potently neutralized by IG preparations; however, the VDRV isolates from patients after intra-host evolution, 2-6 times less so. Diagnosis of immune deficiencies before possible live-virus vaccination is thus of critical importance, while IG replacement therapy can be expected to provide protection from rubella virus infection.

Vaccination against respiratory tract pathogens in primary immune deficiency patients receiving immunoglobulin replacement therapy.

Inborn errors of immunity (IEI) increase morbidity and mortality risks, particularly from respiratory tract infections. Hence, vaccination becomes pivotal for IEI patients. This study aims to examine the vaccination and respiratory tract infection rates in a diverse IEI patient cohort undergoing immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IGRT). We retrospectively evaluated IEI patients on IGRT at a tertiary care center. Data on vaccinations and respiratory infections were extracted from medical records. : The study included 33 patients (mean age= 37.7 ± 11.4 years; 17 male). The most common clinical phenotype in our cohort was primary antibody deficiencies (90.9%). Only two patients had a genetic diagnosis, both of whom were brothers diagnosed with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS). Almost half (48.5%) of our patients had bronchiectasis and 81.8% were on prophylactic antibiotics. All patients with IEI included in the study were regularly receiving IGRT. The vaccination rate of patients against respiratory tract infections was 42.4%, 57.6%, and 78.8% for influenza, pneumococcus, and COVID-19, respectively. Only one patient (7.1%) who received the influenza vaccine developed an upper respiratory tract infection. However, viral panel analysis could not be performed for this patient as they did not present to the hospital. The COVID-19 vaccination rate was notably higher than that of other vaccines, likely due to increased awareness during the pandemic, aided by public advisories and media influence. We observed higher vaccination rates for the COVID-19 vaccine compared to other vaccines (influenza and pneumococcal vaccines). Although we observed the potential impact of social and governmental influence in increasing vaccination rates, it is crucial to acknowledge that vaccination decisions in IEI patients must be individualized.

The Scope and Impact of Viral Infections in Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID) and CVID-like Disorders: A Literature Review.

Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID) is a heterogeneous primary immunodeficiency disorder characterised by impaired antibody production, leading to recurrent infections and an increased susceptibility to viral pathogens. This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of CVID's relationship with viral infections, encompassing disease pathogenesis, key presenting features, specific monogenic susceptibilities, the impact of COVID-19, and existing treatment options. The pathogenesis of CVID involves complex immunological dysregulation, including defects in B cell development, antibody class switching, and plasma cell differentiation. These abnormalities contribute to an impaired humoral immune response against viral agents, predisposing individuals with CVID to a broad range of viral infections. Genetic factors play a prominent role in CVID, and monogenic drivers of CVID-like disease are increasingly identified through advanced genomic studies. Some monogenic causes of the CVID-like phenotype appear to cause specific viral susceptibilities, and these are explored in the review. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted CVID patients' heightened predisposition to severe outcomes with viral infections. This review explores the clinical manifestations, outcomes, and potential therapeutic approaches for COVID-19 in CVID patients. It assesses the efficacy of prophylactic measures for COVID-19, including vaccination and immunoglobulin replacement therapy, as well as trialled therapies.

Management of secondary immunodeficiency in hematological malignancies: a Delphi consensus from the Middle East

Secondary immunodeficiency (SID), acquired hypogammaglobinemia, is an immunodeficiency caused by different factors like diseases, medications, and/or nutrition disorders. Most patients with hematological malignancies (HM), namely chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and multiple myeloma (MM), experience such SID. These patients have a consistently high risk of infection throughout the disease course. Traditional chemotherapy and novel agents used to treat HM may further increase infection susceptibility. Immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IgRT) is an effective management option for SID. The prevalence of SID in the Middle East needs better documentation. Healthcare providers should consider and evaluate SID in patients at risk, monitor for infection occurrence, and treat accordingly (including initiating IgRT when indicated). A Delphi initiative was conducted by a consensus panel of 15 experts from the Middle East who have over 20 years of experience in actively managing patients with SID. The modified Delphi process was used, and 16 questions reached a consensus on managing SID patients with IgRT. In addition, the consensus panel of Middle East experts recommended real-world practice recommendations regarding initiating, dosing, and discontinuing IgRT in managing SID. This consensus recommendation aims to assist healthcare practitioners in the Middle East in evidence-based clinical decision-making for better management of SID.

Defective antibody production in double-strand DNA breakage syndromes: insights and implications

DNA double-strand breakage (DSB) syndrome are rare monogenic inborn errors of immunity with a vast spectrum of manifestations. In addition to a high predisposition to malignancies, these patients are also at risk of recurrent, severe, or opportunistic infections. Therefore, monitoring of immunoglobulin levels and responses to vaccination, as well as interventions such as immunoglobulin replacement therapy should be considered to improve the patients’ outcomes. As DNA double-strand breakage repair pathways have a great impact on lymphocyte development through involvement in the generation of B and T cell receptors, disruption in one of their components may lead to genomic instability, aberrant B-cell receptor (BCR)/T-cell receptor (TCR) development, impaired B cell lymphocyte development and antibody production. The aim of this review is to describe the most common of DBSs, such as ataxia telangiectasia (AT), AT-like disorder (ATLD), Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS), Nijmegen breakage syndrome-like disorder (NBSLD), Bloom syndrome (BS), Fanconi anemia (FA) and some others with a focus on the role of DNA repair proteins in the development of humoral immunity. We also describe the immunoglobulin profile, recommendations for diagnosis, screening, and interventions for the ideal management of affected patients.

Subcutaneous immunoglobulin replacement therapy in patients with immunodeficiencies – impact of drug packaging and administration method on patient reported outcomes

BackgroundHere, the perspective of patients with primary and secondary immunodeficiency receiving subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) via introductory smaller size pre-filled syringes (PFS) or vials were compared.MethodsAn online survey was conducted in Canada by the Association des Patients Immunodéficients du Québec (APIQ) (10/2020–03/2021). Survey questions included: reasons for choosing SCIg packaging and administration methods, training experiences, infusion characteristics, and switching methods. The survey captured structured patient-reported outcomes: treatment satisfaction and its sub-domains, symptom state, general health perception, and physical and mental function. Respondents using PFS were compared with vial users, overall and stratified by their administration method (pump or manual push).ResultsOf the 132 total respondents, 66 respondents used vials, with 38 using a pump and 28 using manual push. PFS (5 and 10 mL sizes) were being used by 120 respondents, with 38 using a pump and 82 using manual push. PFS users were associated with a 17% lower median (interquartile range) SCIg dose (10 [8, 12] vs. 12 [9, 16] g/week, respectively), a significantly shorter infusion preparation time (15 [10, 20] vs. 15 [10, 30] mins, respectively), and a trend for shorter length of infusion (60 [35, 90] vs. 70 [48, 90] mins, respectively) compared with those on vials. Patient-reported treatment satisfaction scores were overall similar between vial and PFS users (including on the domains of effectiveness and convenience), except for a higher score for vials over PFS on the domain of global satisfaction (p=0.02).ConclusionsConsistent with prescribing that reflects a recognition of less wastage, PFS users were associated with a significantly lower SCIg dose compared with vial users. PFS users were also associated with shorter pre-infusion times, reflecting simpler administration mechanics compared with vial users. Higher global satisfaction with treatment among vial users compared with PFS users was consistent with users being limited to smaller PFS size options in Canada during the study period. Patient experience on PFS is expected to improve with the introduction of larger PFS sizes. Overall, treatment satisfaction for SCIg remains consistently high with the introduction of PFS packaging compared with vials.

Accessibility to plasma-derived medicinal products in Malaysia: The challenges faced by patients with inborn errors of immunity.

Inborn errors of immunity (IEI) (also known as primary immunodeficiencies) is an umbrella term for a growing group of over 450 different disorders that are characterized by defects in some of the components of the immune system. IEI are chronic diseases of genetic origin that render individuals suffering from them susceptible to infections. The mainstay of treatments for most patients with IEI, that is, predominantly antibody deficiencies is immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IRT), which is commonly delivered intravenously. Immunoglobulin (IG) therapy contains antibodies to compensate for the defective immune system's inability to produce them. Individuals with IEI need IRT regularly throughout their lives to help combat infections and prevent organ damage. Without IRT, they are in danger of suffering from morbidity, poor quality of life, and reduced life expectancy. In the last 20 years, the use of IG preparation has tripled and this is partly attributed to the growing awareness and improved diagnoses of IEI cases. IG preparations are also used for the treatment of other medical conditions including secondary immunodeficiencies and autoimmune diseases. As IG is derived from human plasma, there are concerns about the availability of supply, particularly to treat life-threatening conditions that cannot be improved with other medications. It is estimated that 75% to 80% of IEI patients do not have access to adequate IG therapy throughout the world. This concern of supply and other challenges faced by patients with IEI in Malaysia are described from the patients' perspective.

Facilitated Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin Treatment Increases the Quality of Life and Decreases the Number of Infections and Hospitalizations in Children with Primary Immunodeficiencies

Introduction: Immunoglobulin replacement therapy is an effective lifelong treatment modality used in patients with primary immunodeficiency to prevent and/or reduce the incidence of serious infections. Facilitated subcutaneous immunoglobulin (fSCIG) was developed to combine the advantages of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG) and is the latest method of immunoglobulin G (IgG) administration. In this study, switching to fSCIG administration in primary immunodeficiency patients receiving regular IVIG or SCIG therapy was evaluated, and serum IgG trough levels, frequency of infections, frequency and duration of hospitalizations, duration of absence from school/work, and quality of life were determined. Methods: In this study, fifteen patients with primary immunodeficiency who were previously receiving IVIG or SCIG treatment, followed by fSCIG, were evaluated retrospectively. Age, diagnosis, current complications, mean IgG value, frequency of infection, frequency of hospitalization, and duration of absenteeism from school and work were recorded during and before fSCIG treatment. At the beginning of fSCIG treatment, at 6th and 12th months, “The Quality of Life Scale” was also evaluated in patients and parents. Results: The most common indications for initiation of fSCIG treatment were the difficulty of access to the hospital and the long transfusion periods. No systemic adverse reactions were reported except for redness, swelling, and mild pain on the injection site. The median IgG values for the last 1 year were 529.6 mg/dL for IVIG (n = 9), 876.2 mg/dL for SCIG (n = 6) and 856.7 mg/dL for fSCIG (n = 15, all patients) treatment. The frequency of infections and the number of hospitalizations decreased significantly in the fSCIG group compared to both previous treatment modalities. There was a significant increase in the quality of life score of the patients and their families when compared with previous treatment modalities. Conclusion: fSCIG is an effective treatment method and is well tolerated in patients with immunodeficiency. It provides stable immunoglobulin levels and excellent protection against infections and offers the patients the possibility of home-based therapy.

Clinical and Treatment History of Patients with Partial DiGeorge Syndrome and Autoimmune Cytopenia at Multiple Centers.

Patients with partial DiGeorge syndrome (pDGS) can present with immune dysregulation, the most common being autoimmune cytopenia (AIC). There is a lack of consensus on the approach to type, combination, and timing of therapies for AIC in pDGS. Recognition of immune dysregulation early in pDGS clinical course may help individualize treatment and prevent adverse outcomes from chronic immune dysregulation. Objectives of this study were to characterize the natural history, immune phenotype, and biomarkers in pDGS with AIC. Data on clinical presentation, disease severity, immunological phenotype, treatment selection, and response for patients with pDGS with AIC were collected via retrospective chart review. Flow cytometric analysis was done to assess T and B cell subsets, including biomarkers of immune dysregulation. Twenty-nine patients with the diagnosis of pDGS and AIC were identified from 5 international institutions. Nineteen (62%) patients developed Evan's syndrome (ES) during their clinical course and twenty (69%) had antibody deficiency syndrome. These patients demonstrated expansion in T follicular helper cells, CD19hiCD21lo B cells, and double negative cells and reduction in CD4 naïve T cells and regulatory T cells. First-line treatment for 17/29 (59%) included corticosteroids and/or high-dose immunoglobulin replacement therapy. Other overlapping therapies included eltrombopag, rituximab, and T cell immunomodulators. AIC in pDGS is often refractory to conventional AIC treatment paradigms. Biomarkers may have utility for correlation with disease state and potentially even response to therapy. Immunomodulating therapies could be initiated early based on early immune phenotyping and biomarkers before the disease develops or significantly worsens.

Access and use of immunoglobulins in supportive cancer care: A thematic analysis of a systematic review data set.

Secondary immunodeficiency (SID) disorders are known to occur in patients with haematological malignancies (HM) due to immunosuppressive treatments. Recurring infections causing subsequent morbidity and mortality commonly occur in this patient cohort. Immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IgRT) benefits patients with primary antibody deficiencies. However, evidence supporting their therapeutic role is not as explicit in SID-associated antibody deficiencies, which raises the questions regarding its use in SID and the knock-on effects of this use on its access and availability more generally. This study aimed to learn about the use of immunoglobulins in SID, identify themes concerning its use and access and suggest methods for improving access. This study included a thematic analysis of a published data set of 43 articles concerning immunoglobulin use and access in SID. The data set used to perform the thematic analysis is based on research articles identified from Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE) and PubMed databases, published as part of a systematic review and part 1 of this two-part publication series. A thematic synthesis was conducted to identify recurrent themes. The three primary themes included (1) the context for IgRT prescription, which included patient characteristics and cost burden of IgRT administration, and its use in different countries; (2) factors contributing to inappropriate IgRT use, including health care professionals' awareness of IgRT, disparity between guidelines and actual clinical practice, and the effect of shortages on prescription and chemotherapy-induced hypogammaglobulinemia (HGG); and (3) measures identified to improve IgRT use and access, which included multidisciplinary involvement, improved diagnostic tools and safer withdrawal and stewardship protocols. IgRT use is increasing in HM as a supportive therapy but without comprehensive clinical guidelines and appropriate prescribing recommendations, medication wastage may occur with consequences for immunoglobulin access.

Evaluation of Clinical and Immunological Alterations Associated with ICF Syndrome.

Immunodeficiency with centromeric instability and facial anomalies (ICF) syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive combined immunodeficiency. The detailed immune responses are not explored widely. We investigated known and novel immune alterations in lymphocyte subpopulations and their association with clinical symptoms in a well-defined ICF cohort. We recruited the clinical findings from twelve ICF1 and ICF2 patients. We performed detailed immunological evaluation, including lymphocyte subset analyses, upregulation, and proliferation of T cells. We also determined the frequency of circulating T follicular helper (cTFH) and regulatory T (Treg) cells and their subtypes by flow cytometry. There were ten ICF1 and two ICF2 patients. We identified two novel homozygous missense mutations in the ZBTB24 gene. Respiratory tract infections were the most common recurrent infections among the patients. Gastrointestinal system (GIS) involvements were observed in seven patients. All patients received intravenous immunoglobulin replacement therapy and antibacterial prophylaxis; two died during the follow-up period. Immunologically, CD4+ T-cell counts, percentages of recent thymic emigrant T cells, and naive CD4+ T decreased in two, five, and four patients, respectively. Impaired T-cell proliferation and reduced CD25 upregulation were detected in all patients. These changes were more prominent in CD8+ T cells. GIS involvements negatively correlated with CD3+ T-, CD3+CD4+ T-, CD16+CD56+ NK-cell counts, and CD4+/CD8+ T-cell ratios. Further, we observed expanded cTFH cells and reduced Treg and follicular regulatory T cells with a skewing to a TH2-like phenotype in all tested subpopulations. The ICF syndrome encompasses various manifestations affecting multiple end organs. Perturbed T-cell responses with increased cTFH and decreased Treg cells may provide further insight into the immune aberrations observed in ICF syndrome.

An interdisciplinary approach to the management of oncohematological patients with immunodeficiency: clinical cases. A review

Immunodeficiency occurs when one or more immune system components do not function properly, resulting in the body's inability to resist mostly infectious agents. Most cases of immunodeficiency in adults are acquired (secondary), but congenital immunodeficiencies are not uncommon. Primary immunodeficiencies are a heterogeneous group of innate immune errors that result in various clinical and laboratory manifestations. In contrast, secondary immunodeficiencies involve an acquired decrease in immune cell count and/or impairment of their function, commonly associated with an antibody level decrease. Secondary immunodeficiency in patients with B-cell hematological malignancies is a common condition attributed to both hematological malignancy and secondary antitumor therapy-related causes. Paradoxically, immunodeficiency, initially attributed to secondary causes, may be due to a previously undiagnosed primary immunodeficiency. Early diagnosis of immunodeficiency and optimization of management strategies with a multidisciplinary approach are critical to providing the most effective specific treatments and reducing the incidence of infection-related complications and mortality. The article addresses clinical practice, recommendations, and problems of immunodeficiency diagnosis and the effectiveness of immunoglobulin replacement therapy illustrated by clinical cases.

UK PID Patients: Overview of perception on IgRT and infections using short survey.

Immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IgRT) has advanced over the years and is used to treat many patients with primary immunodeficiencies reducing the number of infections and the burden of disease. We investigated the perception of IgRT in two patient groups (UKPIPS and PID UK) and their condition through a short survey. The survey was a multiple-choice short survey consisting of 20 questions completed either online or on paper. Data analysis was performed using SAS analysis software using regression analysis, correlation analysis and t-tests. Statistical significance was considered with p<0.05. 278 surveys were analysed which showed that the majority of participants were satisfied with the immunoglobulin therapy they received (n=225, 80.9%). However, there was a small but significant number of participants (n=19, 6.9%) that still experienced severe and very severe infections despite adequate IgRT. 236 (84.9%) participants reported limitations in daily life due to infections. The dissatisfied participants (n=55, 18.3%) had more non-routine visits to healthcare providers, higher numbers of antibiotic treatments and more days absent from school, work, university or equivalent than the satisfied participants.

Infection Outcomes and Hypogammaglobulinemia in Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Treated with Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy

CONCLUSIONS Hypogammaglobulinemia (HGG), a secondary immunodeficiency (SID), can manifest in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) due to the disease and its treatments. Up to half of all deaths from CLL are attributed to infection; however, use of immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IgRT) for the prevention of infections in selected patients varies. We aimed to assess real-world IgRT utilization and infection outcomes in patients with CLL. A retrospective, longitudinal study evaluating real-world IgRT use in adult patients with CLL diagnosed after 2010, with ≥ 3 visits/year and ≥ 12 months of clinical data, was conducted. De-identified clinical data came from the Massachusetts General Brigham Research Patient Data Registry. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) testing, infection outcomes, and antimicrobial use were compared before versus after IgRT initiation. Generalized estimating equation logistic regression models calculated odds ratios (ORs), 95% CIs, and P-values. Of 3960 patients with CLL assessed, 2652 (67.0%) patients had IgG testing (29.0% tested at CLL diagnosis); 917 (34.6%) had HGG (IgG level &amp;lt; 500mg/dL). Median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 68.0 (60.0, 76.0) years, 61.2% were men, 67.8% were treatment-naïve, and median (IQR) follow-up duration was 4.8 (2.4, 7.4) years. Among recipients of IgRT (n = 259), 56.8% received ≥ 2 administrations and the median (IQR) number of IgRT administrations was 2.0 (1.0, 4.0). Median (IQR) time from CLL diagnosis to IgRT initiation was 38.0 (11.4, 64.7) months. Significantly fewer patients had HGG 3 months after IgRT versus 3 months before (33.8% vs 72.8%; P &amp;lt; 0.0001). Significantly lower odds of infections and antimicrobial use were observed after IgRT initiation in 3- and 6-month time periods for: all infections, sinopulmonary and skin or soft tissue infections, infections requiring antimicrobials, all severe infections, severe sinopulmonary and skin or soft tissue infections, and severe infections requiring antimicrobials ( Table). In this real-world study of patients with CLL, IgRT was associated with significant reductions in HGG, infection rates, and infections requiring antimicrobials. Guidelines are needed to optimize IgG testing, IgRT initiation, and SID management for patients with CLL.

Infection Outcomes and Hypogammaglobulinemia in Patients with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treated with Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy

CONCLUSIONS Patients diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) histologies often develop hypogammaglobulinemia (HGG), a secondary immunodeficiency (SID) that is associated with exposure to NHL-related treatments. Those with HGG frequently experience infections, which represent the leading cause of death in NHL (33% of cases). Patients with HGG who experience recurrent infections may benefit from immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IgRT). We aimed to assess real-world IgRT utilization and associated infection outcomes in patients with NHL. This retrospective, longitudinal, observational study evaluated HGG (immunoglobulin G [IgG] &amp;lt; 500 mg/dL) status and infection outcomes among adult patients diagnosed with NHL after 2010 who had ≥ 12 months of clinical data and ≥ 3 visits/year after NHL diagnosis and received immune globulin infusion (human), 10% (IG10% [ie, Gammagard Liquid]). De-identified clinical data from the Massachusetts General Brigham Research Patient Data Registry was used. IgG testing, infection outcomes, and antimicrobial use were compared 3 months before versus 3 months after initiation of IG10%. Generalized estimating-equation logistic regression models were used to obtain odds ratios (ORs), 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and P values. A total of 13,232 patients with NHL were identified. Among patients with NHL, 623 (4.7%) received ≥ 1 IgRT during the follow-up period, of whom, 563 (90.4%) received IG10%. The majority of patients with NHL treated with IG10% were male (61.3%), White (90.1%), with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) age of 62 (53-69) years, and median (IQR) follow-up of 4.8 (2.3-7.7) years. Median (IQR) administrations of IG10% across recipients were 2 (1-4) and over half of patients (55.6%) received ≥ 2 IG10% administrations. Median (IQR) time from initiation of IG10% to end of follow-up was 25.6 (6.8-55.2) months. Most patients had ≥ 1 IgG test in the follow-up period (n = 532 [94.5%]), median (IQR) number of IgG tests was 10 (4-27), and 84.2% of patients had ≥1 IgG test result available before initiation of IG10%. Of the patients treated with IG10% who had IgG test results available (n = 532), 81.6% were identified with HGG (&amp;lt; 500 mg/dL). Few patients had IgG testing at the time of first NHL diagnosis (13.3%), and median (IQR) time from diagnosis to first IgG test was 4.9 (0.8-17.4) months. Of the patients with ≥ 2 IG10% administrations (n = 313), median (IQR) time from the first administration of IG10% to subsequent IgG testing was 1.0 (0.3-2.8) month. Most patients (91.3%) who received ≥ 2 IG10% administrations and ≥ 1 IgG testing had an IgG test between first and second administrations of IG10%. Median (IQR) serum IgG levels were higher in the 3 months following initiation of IG10% versus 3 months before initiation of IG10% (520.0 mg/dL [413.0-670.0] vs 339.0 mg/dL [228.0-405.0]), and significantly fewer patients had HGG (34.7% vs 83.0%, P &amp;lt; 0.0001). In addition, significantly lower odds of infection (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.47-0.75), severe infection (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.32-0.50), and associated antimicrobial use were observed 3 months after IG10% initiation (Figures 1 and 2). In this real-world study of patients with NHL, treatment with IG10% was shown to be associated with significantly lower rates of HGG as well as lower odds of infection, severe infection, and antimicrobial use 3 months after IG10% initiation. Guidelines and consensus-based recommendations are needed to optimize the use of IgG testing, initiation of IgRT, and SID management in patients with NHL.

Optimizing Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy for Patients with B-Cell Malignancies and Hypogammaglobulinemia: The Investigator-Initiated, International, Randomized Phase II/III Rational Platform Trial, and the Rationalise (STOP IgRT) Domain

Background &amp; significance: Hypogammaglobulinemia is common in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and multiple myeloma (MM), and associated with an increased risk of serious infection. Immunoglobulin (Ig) replacement therapy (IgRT) is widely used to reduce this risk, but national guidelines and clinical practice are variable. Supportive care and treatment regimens have evolved since evidence supporting IgRT was published. Ig is expensive, in limited supply, and with increasing use of B-cell-depleting therapies in this setting, and prolonged survival, demand continues to grow globally.It is not clear when to start IgRT, nor the optimal duration or dose. Some jurisdictions require a trial of oral antibiotics (Abx) prior to starting IgRT, and some recommend a trial of stopping IgRT in stable patients. More data are needed on the benefits, risks and costs of these different approaches. Hypothesis: For the prevention of infection in adults with hypogammaglobulinemia due to CLL, NHL or MM prophylactic oral Abx, or a strategy of patient-held emergency Abx supply only, are non-inferior to IgRT. Study design: The RATIONAL platform trial is an investigator-initiated, international (Australia, New Zealand, Canada), phase II/III randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 3 domains: (1) the RATIONALISE ‘STOP Ig’ study (ACTRN 12622000359730), now recruiting; (2) a ‘START Ig’ study comparing IgRT or Abx in patients eligible to start IgRT; and (3) a DOSE study comparing IgRT at 0.25 vs 0.4g/kg/month (m). The platform includes qualitative, biological (immune profile, microbiome) and health economics studies. In the RATIONALISE (‘STOP Ig‘) domain, patients are randomized 1:1:1 to either: - Arm A: Stop Ig and commence prophylactic oral Abx: Daily trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (co-trimoxazole) 160mg/800mg (doxycycline 100mg/day if co-trimoxazole hypersensitive). - Arm B: Stop Ig. Keep amoxycillin/clavulanic acid 1750-2000mg/250mg and ciprofloxacin 750mg on hand for initial use for symptoms of infection, with immediate clinical review. Clindamycin 600mg if penicillin hypersensitive. - Arm C: Continue Ig: IV q 4±1 wks at 0.4g/kg, modified to achieve IgG trough of at least lower limit of age-specific serum IgG reference range, OR subcutaneous (SC), dosed in line with site/country criteria. Inclusion criteria: ≥18y with CLL, NHL or MM, receiving IgRT (IV or SC) for &amp;gt;6m, eligible for Ig cessation in opinion of treating clinician, life expectancy &amp;gt;12m, able to give informed consent and comply with each of the trial arms. Exclusion criteria: Prior/planned allogeneic transplantation. Major infection (≥Grade 3 CTCAE v5) in preceding 3m, and/or current active infection requiring antimicrobial treatment. Already on daily Abx for purpose of preventing bacterial infection (may have antiviral, antifungal, PJP prophylaxis). Intolerance of all trial Abx options.Communication, compliance or logistics likely to limit ability to take prophylactic or emergency Abx, or obtain urgent medical attention for infection symptoms. Pregnant/breastfeeding. Creatinine clearance &amp;lt;30 mL/min. Splenectomy. Enrolment deemed not in patient's interest. Primary endpoint: Event-free survival, from randomization until ≥Grade 3 infection or death from any cause. Secondary endpointsinclude other infectious outcomes to 12m, time free from hospitalization and therapeutic Abx, Abx resistance, QoL, trough Ig levels, proportion of patients who stop Ig and re-start, costs, adverse events. End-point determination: Study is not blinded, but infections and adverse events are adjudicated by an independent, blinded outcome adjudication committee. Planned treatment duration in all arms is 12m, with follow-up via established clinical registries. Statistical methods: STOP Ig domain has an initial cap of 300 patients and uses flexible Bayesian monitoring involving frequent interim analyses where interventions may be stopped early to declare proof-of-concept/efficacy or inferiority, or accrual may expand. Stratified by diagnosis. Progress/Summary: This novel international platform trial will inform infection prevention strategies for the growing population of patients with CLL, NHL or MM living with hypogammaglobulinemia. The first domain ('STOP Ig') is now open at 4 sites, with the first patients recruited. To our knowledge, this is the first trial of 'stopping' Ig in this setting.

Real-World Usage of Hyaluronidase-Facilitated Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin 10% in Patients with Multiple Myeloma Diagnosed with Secondary Immunodeficiency Disease

Introduction: In patients with mature B-cell malignancies such as multiple myeloma (MM), both the underlying disease and immunosuppressive therapy can result in patients developing secondary immunodeficiency disease (SID). SID often manifests in severe, recurrent, or persistent infections that can impair a patient's quality of life and are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with MM, thereby resulting in significant clinical and socioeconomic burden. The use of immunoglobulin (Ig) replacement therapy is well established for the treatment of hypogammaglobulinemia in patients with primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD). Hyaluronidase-facilitated subcutaneous immunoglobulin (fSCIG) 10% is a dual-vial unit of IgG 10% and recombinant human hyaluronidase (rHuPH20). fSCIG 10% is approved in the USA for the treatment of adults and children aged 2 years or older with PIDD, and in the EU for adults and children of any age with PIDD or SID. fSCIG 10% is not fully integrated into standard of care for patients with SID in many countries, in part owing to comparatively less familiarity of hematologists and oncologists with the evidence supporting the use of fSCIG 10% than for intravenous IgG therapy in patients with SID. Therefore, the HyMMy study (NCT05879757) aims to generate real-world evidence to gain a better understanding of patterns of fSCIG 10% use and outcomes in patients with MM and SID. Methods: HyMMy is a prospective, noninterventional, observational study that will be conducted at 30 centers in Europe and South America. It is planned for 100 patients to be enrolled and observed over a 12-month follow-up period. The overall duration of the study will be 38 months. Patients will be eligible for inclusion if they are aged 18 years or older, have a diagnosis of MM, and fulfill the diagnosis criteria for SID: patient suffers from severe, recurrent, or persistent infection despite appropriate anti-infective treatment, and has proven specific antibody failure or a serum IgG trough level of less than 4 g/L (excluding paraprotein). Patients may enter the study after being diagnosed with SID and no more than 30 days after fSCIG 10% treatment initiation, or with no more than 2 doses of fSCIG 10% already infused ( Figure). Patients newly starting fSCIG 10% have a 30-day window from enrollment to inclusion. Patients will be excluded if they have PIDD, have received Ig treatment or prophylaxis within 3 months of enrollment, have an ongoing serious infection requiring intravenous antimicrobial therapy, have a history of malignancy other than MM within 3 years of enrollment, or have had major surgery within 2 weeks of enrollment. The primary endpoint is to characterize the real-world infusion parameters of fSCIG 10% administration (dosing and administration characteristics; treatment interval; infusion volume, sites, rate, and duration; training visits; and fSCIG 10% discontinuation, interruption, or switch to other treatment). Secondary endpoints will examine the disease course and clinical management of MM (including overall survival and healthcare resource utilization) in patients treated with fSCIG 10%. The exploratory endpoints include: burden of infection; infection rate, type, duration, and severity; patient-reported outcomes pertaining to health-related quality of life, collected via questionnaire at the patients' visit; and overall physician assessment of fSCIG 10% utilization, tolerability, and effectiveness, as measured by a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. Results: Patient recruitment started in June 2023. Interim analysis is planned after enrollment of the first 50 patients, and the estimated end of the study is 2026. Conclusions: HyMMy is the first prospective, observational study that focuses on the assessment of fSCIG 10% utilization patterns in adults with MM diagnosed with SID. The study will help to improve understanding of the treatment patterns and options available for patients with SID and hematologic malignancies, in particular MM. Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc. funded this study. Takeda Pharmaceuticals International AG funded writing support.