Intravenous immunoglubulin (IVIG) has been the mainstay of treatment for a number of primary immunodeficiencies since it was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the early 1980s.
IVIG involves the infusion of immunoglobulins derived from donated blood plasma directly into the patient's bloodstream as a protection against infection.
In the case of children with XHIM, IVIG is given to replace the missing IgG antibodies and to reduce or normalize the IgM level.
IVIG infusions are usually given every three to four weeks for the remainder of the patient's life.
IVIG therapy is the only effective treatment for ARHIM as of the early 2000s.