Immunoglobulin infusion is becoming more widely used as treatment for a variety of conditions. This article describes the background and uses of immunoglobulin therapy and the nursing care of patients undergoing this treatment

The immune system is an intricate network of cells and proteins, which interact to protect the body from infection (PIA1997). The protection clears established infection from the body and prevents re-infection. When the immune system recognises an organism that may cause disease, it should orchestrate an appropriate inflammatory response. This will limit infection and may also eradicate the invading organism.