Rabies immunoglobulin

Rabies immunoglobulin is a medication primarily used in the prevention of rabies. It is specifically used following a bite from an animal that may carry the rabies virus. The medication is typically given along with rabies vaccine to provide immediate protection against the rabies virus while the body's immune system is still responding to the vaccine.

Etymology

The term "immunoglobulin" is derived from the Latin words "immunis" meaning exempt, and "globus" meaning ball. This refers to the protein's role in the immune system and its globular structure.

Usage

Rabies immunoglobulin is used in a process known as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). This process is initiated when a person has been bitten by an animal suspected of carrying the rabies virus. The immunoglobulin provides immediate protection against the virus, while the body's immune system responds to the vaccine.

Administration

Rabies immunoglobulin is administered through an injection into the wound site as soon as possible after exposure. The remaining immunoglobulin, if any, should be injected intramuscularly at a site distant from rabies vaccine administration.

Related Terms

• Rabies: A viral disease that causes inflammation of the brain in humans and other mammals.
• Immunoglobulin: A type of protein produced by plasma cells and lymphocytes and characteristic of these types of cells.
• Post-exposure prophylaxis: A preventive medical treatment started immediately after exposure to a pathogen.

See Also

• Rabies vaccine
• Passive immunity
• Antibody

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