IVIG Treatment for HIV-Infected Children with Infections
Author Information
Author(s): Lyen C Huang, Landon Myer, Heather B Jaspan
Primary Institution: University of Cape Town
Hypothesis
Does intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) reduce mortality and length of hospital stay in HIV-infected children with serious bacterial infections?
Conclusion
IVIG does not appear to reduce mortality or hospital stays in HIV-infected children with serious bacterial infections.
Supporting Evidence
- 73 (52%) of children were treated with IVIG.
- 13 (9%) died during their hospital admission.
- IVIG was associated with longer hospital stays.
Takeaway
Giving IVIG to sick children with HIV and infections didn't help them get better or leave the hospital faster.
Methodology
Retrospective cohort study of pediatric admissions with confirmed HIV and serious bacterial infections from 2002 to 2006.
Potential Biases
Confounding by indication due to treatment assignment based on illness severity.
Limitations
Retrospective design may lead to confounding by indication; severity of illness may not have been adequately captured.
Participant Demographics
Median age 1.2 years, 54% male, 39% on antiretroviral therapy, 28% on tuberculosis treatment.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.123
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.2–27.1
Statistical Significance
p = 0.123
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website