antithyMocyte globulin

Indications

Antithymocyte globulin (Atgam) is purified immune globulin obtained from hyperimmune serum of horses immunized with human thymus lymphocytes. It has been used successfully alone and in combination with azathioprine and corticosteroids to prevent renal allograft rejection. Although it has benefits when administered prophylactically, its use during rejection episodes may be its greatest value.
Antithymocyte globulin binds to circulating T lymphocytes in the blood, which are subsequently removed from the circulation by the reticuloendothelial system. This globulin also reduces the number of T lymphocytes in the thymus-dependent areas of the spleen and lymph nodes.
Since the preparations are raised in heterologous species, reactions against the foreign proteins may lead to serum sickness and nephritis.The concomitant use of corticosteroids may alleviate this response.