antithymocyte immunoglobulin

**Antithymocyte immunoglobulin** is a polyclonal antibody preparation derived from either horse (equine) or rabbit immunization with human thymocytes. It functions as an immunosuppressive agent and is primarily indicated for the prophylaxis and treatment of acute rejection in organ transplantation (notably kidney) and for treatment of aplastic anemia and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) following stem cell transplantation. The drug acts by binding to multiple surface antigens on human T-lymphocytes, leading to T-cell depletion through complement-mediated cytotoxicity or apoptosis. This suppresses the patient's immune response, reducing the risk of transplant rejection or autoimmune activity. The specific type (rabbit or equine) and brand may be chosen based on the clinical scenario and patient factors[1][2][3][4][5][6][8].

Brand names

AtgamThymoglobulin

Other names

antithymocyte globulinlymphocyte immune globulinanti-thymocyte globulinanti-thymocyte globulin [rabbit]anti-thymocyte globulin [equine]ATGAMThymoglobulin