IVIG with Imbruvica

[W00dfin]

I have been on IVIG 10+ years, starting with only cold seasonal treatment. I have been on IVIG 30 grams q 28 days continuously for almost 6 years. I started Imbruvica 14 days ago due to my first leukemia recurrence since remission, 2011. Yesterday morning, 6/27/17, I had my first IVIG since starting Imbruvica. At 5 pm I noticed edema on the back of my right hand and wrist which had already been feeling tender and achy since the night before. Consulted clinic pharmacy staff suggested it was likely a reaction to IVIG rather than Imbruvica, especially because it occurred within 3/4 inches of the IVIG injection site. They encouraged watchful waiting overnight and Benadryl unless it progressed. Since they give Benadryl as a pre-med, they thought the edema coincided with the Benadryl wearing off 8 hours later. The night passed and the edema is slowly decreasing. Tenderness is almost gone.

[maggiesgrandmom]

The IV may have infiltrated a little possibly. Warm compresses should help the fluid reabsorb.

[W00dfin in reply to maggiesgrandmom]

Thanks for your insights. I forgot to mention this is the first negative reaction to IVIG I have had.

[maggiesgrandmom in reply to W00dfin]

That's good to know. I just had my first IVIG last Sat. am going to start monthly soon.

[MsLockYourPosts Passed Volunteer]

That sounds more like the IV leaking a bit than a reaction, which I would expect to be more systemic. I have gotten IVIG for 14 years. My one reaction consisted of flushing and slight chills, dealt with immediately. Changing brands solved the problem. I have had blown veins twice over the years. What you are describing sounds more like the symptoms I experienced then.

[W00dfin in reply to MsLockYourPosts]

I tried to keep it short and left out the time frame: the IVIG finished a few minutes past 11 am and I noticed the edema at 5 pm. Wouldn't infiltration show up much sooner?

[MsLockYourPosts Passed Volunteer in reply to W00dfin]

I would think so. I hope the issue has resolved.

[W00dfin in reply to MsLockYourPosts]

Thanks, yes it was completely resolved in a few days