Use of Hepatitis B Immune Globulin: Reassessment Needed

Abstract

Hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) is now a licensed and available product. It is currently recommended for use in prevention of hepatitis B infection after acute exposure to blood infected with hepatitis B, as with accidental "needle sticks."Recently, the Public Health Service Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices reviewed the use of HBIG and standard immune serum globulin (ISG) in prevention of hepatitis.¹ Although supporting the recommendations approved by the Bureau of Biologics of the Food and Drug Administration, this committee implied that they might be broadened somewhat, and also stressed the potential advantage of using ISG in various settings . . .