IVIG utilization and its impact on platelet count in pregnant women with moderate thrombocytopenia

Immunoglobulins (IVIG) are a limited and costly resource but essential blood products for the management of several hematologic, immunologic and neurologic conditions. Shortages are common and negatively impact many Canadian patients. It is imperative to ensure efficient and appropriate utilization of IVIG. In pregnancy, IVIG utilization has increased with limited evidence for their benefit. We will examine the general use of IVIG in pregnancy to inform future studies investigating outcomes and benefits related to IVIG. In this grant, we will focus pregnant women with low platelet count where IVIG are often used with the aim of increasing the platelet count to facilitate epidural insertion and ‘safe’ delivery despite the lack of evidence for an increased bleeding risk when platelets are moderately decreased. Our study will examine the changes in platelet counts following IVIG administration in pregnant women with moderately decreased platelet count and the factors that predict a response to IVIG. By doing so, we can generate a model that can be further studied to inform our clinical practices in the administration of IVIG for this patient population. Our end goal is to preserve IVIG as a resource and ensure its utilization is based on evidence that led to actual benefits in patient care.

KHALIFE, Roy

Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

Blood Efficiency Accelerator Program

Ontario

$22,217