An experience in the clinical use of specific immunoglobulin from horse blood serum for prophylaxis of Ebola haemorrhagic fever.

This research article explores the viability of specific immunoglobulin derived from horse blood serum as a preventative measure against the Ebola hemorrhagic fever. The study found that this treatment, when administered correctly, is relatively safe and effective, especially when patients undergo desensitizing therapy.

Research Methodology

• The researchers administered specific heterologous immunoglobulin, obtained from horse blood serum, to 28 patients who were exposed to infectious material or blood in an epidemic context.
• Clinical and laboratory observations were carried out on 24 patients who received a single intramuscular injection of the heterologous immunoglobulin.
• The patients’ blood serum samples were analyzed for the presence of these immunoglobulins and antibodies to horse gamma-globulin on the 30th and 60th days post-prophylaxis.

Research Findings

• No participants in the study contracted Ebola fever. This suggests that the heterologous immunoglobulin provided protection against the disease.
• There were no instances of anaphylactic reactions, which could indicate that the immunoglobulin is safe for use.
• However, some participants did experience minor local and general reactions. In those with a normal allergic state, 31% had local reactions, while 13% experienced mild serum disease, a possible side effect of using animal serum in humans.
• Those with an unfavourable allergic state who received desensitizing therapy prior to the injection showcased almost no reaction.
• In absence of desensitizing therapy, 50% of participants with an unfavorable allergic state exhibited local reactions, 17% had mild instances of serum disease, and 33% had moderate instances of the serum disease.

Conclusions and Recommendations

• New prophylactic use of specific immunoglobulin from horse blood serum against Ebola may be an effective and relatively safe measure against Ebola, especially if the patient undergoes desensitizing therapy prior to treatment.
• The researchers note that the resistance period to Ebola after treatment was less than 30 days, indicating that the effects of such prophylactic treatments are temporary and may need to be repeated for sustained protection.
• Nevertheless, the researchers stress the importance of carefully considering the potential for allergic reactions in patients, and strongly recommend preliminary desensitizing therapy to minimise potential side effects.