The effects of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) in hemolytic jaundice of the newborn due to ABO and Rh isoimmunization

Recent studies suggested the role of IVIG in decreasing immune hemolytic jaundice of the newborn and need to exchange transfusion using. This study evaluated the effects of IVIG on hemolytic jaundice of newborn due to ABO and Rh isoimmunization. This clinical trial study was performed on 80 hospitalized newborns with hemolytic jaundice due to ABO and Rh isoimmunization in neonatal ward of Tehran Mahdieh hospital between October 2007 and October 2008. Neonates were assigned randomly to control (phototherapy) and case (phototherapy plus IVIG) groups. IVIG was administered as 500 mg/kg during 4 hours and up to maximum 3 doses, if it was required. Severity of jaundice, duration of phototherapy, hospitalization stay, need to exchange transfusion and complications of IVIG administration were evaluated. Data was analysed using SPSS software and by Chi-square and independent T tests. Duration of phototherapy, hospitalization and exchange transfusion were significantly lower in neonates who took IVIG in addition to phototherapy than control group. No complications of IVIG were observed. Administration of IVIG is an effective and safe method for decreasing severity of immune hemolytic jaundice of newborns and need to exchange transfusion using.