Intravenous Immunoglobulin-Induced Pulmonary Embolism: It Is Time to Act!

Am J Ther. 2016 Jul-Aug;23(4):e1074-7. doi: 10.1097/MJT.0000000000000288.

Abstract

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common clinical problem affecting 600,000 patients per year in the United States. Although the diagnosis can be easily confirmed by imaging techniques, such as computed tomographic angiography of the chest, the identification of underlying mechanism leading to PE is important for appropriate duration of anticoagulation, and prevention of subsequent episodes. The differential diagnosis of underlying mechanism is broad and must include careful review of medication history. Drug-related thromboembolic disease can be easily missed and may have catastrophic consequences. The identification of the culprit drug is important for prevention of subsequent episodes and choosing appropriate duration of anticoagulation. We report a case of a middle-aged man who developed PE after administration of intravenous immunoglobulin.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • IgG Deficiency / drug therapy*
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / adverse effects*
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pulmonary Embolism / chemically induced*
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnosis
  • Pulmonary Embolism / diagnostic imaging
  • Venous Thrombosis / chemically induced
  • Venous Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging

Substances

  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous