Long lasting extensive skin rash post IVIG infusion

I recently began receiving IVIG infusions for an immune system deficiency.  The first infusion was relatively uneventful in terms of side effects.  However, a day after the second infusion I developed a red, raised rash around my neck.  Over the next 10 days, rashes appeared from head to toe with a lot of raised red areas.  Fluid-filled pockets would form, then burst and bleed only to repeat.  Rash appeared in my nose and both ears.  I'm now on a prednisone taper after having a five-day prednisone burst with no effect.  The taper seems to be helping but side effects are present (swollen extremities, emotional friability).  I'm into the fifth week of this rash now.  Main issue is trying to stay warm with so much body heat being released thru the skin rash. Itching and burning is extremely uncomfortable.

Has anyone has a similar experience?  If so, what was the final outcome?  Did you use prednisone or did another therapy work better?

Thanks.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to hives which might have occurred as a result of these medicines. Hives (medically known as urticaria) are red, itchy, raised areas of skin that appear in varying shapes and sizes. They have a tendency to change size rapidly and to move around, disappearing in one place and reappearing in other places, often in a matter of hours.

Medications are an important cause of hives. The treatment of hives consists of antiallergics and steroids. You may take Vitamin C along with the prescribed treatment. Vitamin C is a general anti-allergy supplement. It helps stabilize mast cells so they are less likely to release histamine.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. Treatment can be started only when the diagnosis is confirmed. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.