This retrospective study investigated the safety of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) among consecutive elderly patients treated for neurological disorders. Correlation and relative risks were calculated for age, risk factors, IVIg course, daily dose, concentration, preparation, and duration of treatment. An infusion and monitoring protocol was applied. A total of 244 patients were reviewed including 62% aged ≥60 years (1.8 ± 0.4g/kg bw total dose; 30.3±2.0g daily dose). Sixty-nine percent received sugar-stabilized IVIg. Forty-nine percent presented with >1 risk factor. Adverse reactions occurred in 35% and led to treatment discontinuation in 5%, with a similar incidence among age groups. In patients ≥age 60 years, sucrose-free IVIg administration was an independent predictor of adverse reactions, including renal failure. In the elderly, IVIg infusions are safe. Adverse reactions mainly depend on IVIg preparation and administration. Renal failure is not uncommon with sugar-free IVIg.
