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IVIG Treatment for Pseudomembraneous Colitis

Pseudomembranous colitis is also known as C. difficile colitis, or C. diff. It is an inflammation of the colon caused by an overgrowth of bacterium, most commonly Clostridium difficile. The overgrowth can be caused by use of antibiotics or an impaired immune system.

  1. Features

    • The causative bacteria release toxins that inflame the tissue of the colon. Pseudomembranous colitis is characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal discomfort and fever.

    Treatment

    • If an antibiotic is suspected to be the cause of pseudomembranous colitis, its use is discontinued immediately. Subsequent treatment includes use of an anti-infective medication, such as Flagyl and IV fluids, if necessary for dehydration in severe cases.

    IVIG Treatment

    • For recurrent pseudomembranous colitis caused by C. diff, infusions of intravenous immunoglobulin, or IVIG, have been found to be effective. IVIG contains antibodies which act to supplement those produced naturally by the body.

    IVIG Use

    • IVIG for pseudomembranous colitis may be given as a one-time course over several days or periodic infusions in a frequency prescribed by the treating physician. While this treatment slows or stops the associated diarrhea, the stool may still test positive for the infectious agent.

    IVIG Side Effects

    • Possible side effects of IVIG include anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), renal failure and infusion-related complications.

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