Aetna
Aetna Aetna
Specialty Pharmacy Clinical Policy Bulletins
Aetna Non-Medicare Prescription Drug Plan
Subject: IVIG 2042-A SGM P2023a

Drug
Intravenous Immune Globulin (IVIG)
Alyglo™, Asceniv™, Bivigam®, Flebogamma® DIF, Gammagard® Liquid, Gammagard® S/D, Gammaked™, Gammaplex®, Gamunex®-C, Octagam®, Panzyga®, and Privigen®


Policy:

      I.  INDICATIONS

          The indications below including FDA-approved indications and
          compendial uses are considered a covered benefit provided that
          all the approval criteria are met and the member has no
          exclusions to the prescribed therapy.

          A.  FDA-Approved Indications
               1.  Primary immunodeficiency
               2.  Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)
               3.  Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
                    (CIDP)
               4.  Multifocal motor neuropathy
               5.  Kawasaki syndrome
               6.  B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
               7.  Dermatomyositis

          B.  Compendial Uses
               1.   Prophylaxis of bacterial infections in pediatric human
                     immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection
               2.   Bone marrow transplant (BMT)/hematopoietic stem cell
                     transplant (HSCT)
               3.   Polymyositis
               4.   Myasthenia gravis
               5.   Guillain-Barré syndrome
               6.   Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome
               7.   Fetal/neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia
               8.   Parvovirus B19-induced pure red cell aplasia
               9.   Stiff-person syndrome
              10.  Management of immune checkpoint inhibitor-related
                     toxicites
              11.  Acquired red cell aplasia
              12.  Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis
              13.  Autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering diseases
              14.  Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
              15.  Autoimmune neutropenia
              16.  Birdshot retinochoroidopathy
              17.  BK virus associated nephropathy
              18.  Churg-Strauss Syndrome
              19.  Enteroviral meningoencephalitis
              20.  Hematophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) or
                     macrophage activation syndrome (MAS)
              21.  Hemolytic disease of newborn
              22.  HIV-associated thrombocytopenia
              23.  Hyperimmunoglobulinemia E Syndrome
              24.  Hypogammaglobulinemia from chimeric antigen receptor
                     T (CAR-T) therapy
              25.  Multiple myeloma
              26.  Neonatal hemochromatosis, prophylaxis
              27.  Opsoclonus-myoclonus
              28.  Paraneoplastic opsonus-myoclonus ataxia associated with
                     neuroblastoma
              29.  Post-transfusion purpura
              30.  Rasmussen encephalitis
              31.  Renal transplantation from a live donor with ABO
                     incompatibility or positive cross match
              32.  Secondary immunosuppression associated with major
                     surgery, hematological malignancy, major burns, and
                     collagen-vascular diseases
              33.  Solid organ transplantation, for allosensitized members
              34.  Toxic epidermal necrolysis and Stevens-Johnson
                     syndrome
              35.  Toxic shock syndrome
              26.  Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
              27.  Toxic necrotizing fasciitis due to group A streptococcus
              28.  Measles (Rubeola) prophylaxis
              39.  Tetanus treatment and prophylaxis
              40.  Varicella prophylaxis

          All other indications are considered experimental/investigational
          and not medically necessary.


    II.  DOCUMENTATION

          The following information is necessary to initiate the prior
          authorization review:
          A.  Primary immunodeficiency
               1.  Diagnostic test results
                    a.  Copy of laboratory report with serum immunoglobulin
                         levels: IgG, IgA, IgM, and IgG subclasses
                    b.  Vaccine response to pneumococcal polysaccharide
                         vaccine (post-vaccination Streptococcus pneumoniae
                         antibody titers)
                    c.  Pertinent genetic or molecular testing in members with
                         a known genetic disorder
                    d.  Copy of laboratory report with lymphocyte subset
                         enumeration by flow cytometry
               2.  IgG trough level for those continuing with IG therapy
          B.  Myasthenia gravis
               1.  Clinical records describing standard treatments tried and
                    failed
          C.  Secondary hypogammaglobulinemia (e.g., CLL, BMT/HSCT
               recipients)
               1.  Copy of laboratory report with pre-treatment serum IgG
                    level
          D.  Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP)
               and multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN)
               1.  Pre-treatment electrodiagnostic studies
                    (electromyography [EMG] or nerve conduction studies
                    [NCS])
          E.  Dermatomyositis and polymyositis
               1.  Clinical records describing standard treatments tried and
                    failed
          F.  Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS)
               1.  Neurophysiology studies (e.g., electromyography)
               2.  A positive anti- P/Q type voltage-gated calcium channel
                    antibody test
          G.  Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
               1.  Laboratory report with pre-treatment/current platelet
                    count
               2.  Chronic/persistent ITP: copy of medical records
                    supporting trial and failure with corticosteroid or anti-D
                    therapy (unless contraindicated)
          H.  Parvovirus B19-indicated Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA)
               1.  Copy of test result confirming presence of parvovirus B19
          I.  Stiff-person syndrome
               1.  Anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibody testing
                    results
               2.  Clinical records describing standard treatments tried and
                    failed
          J.  Toxic shock syndrome or toxic necrotizing fasciitis due to
               group A streptococcus
               1.  Documented presence of fasciitis (toxic necrotizing
                    fasciitis due to group A streptococcus only)
               2.  Microbiological data (culture or Gram stain)


  III.  CRITERIA FOR INITIAL APPROVAL

          A.  Primary Immunodeficiency
               Initial authorization of 6 months may be granted for
               members with any of the following diagnoses: 
               1.  Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) or congenital
                    agammaglobulinemia (eg, X-linked or autosomal
                    recessive agammaglobulinemia):  
                    a.  Diagnosis confirmed by genetic or molecular testing,
                         or
                    b.  Pretreatment IgG level < 200 mg/dL, or
                    c.  Absence or very low number of T cells (CD3 T cells <
                         300/microliter) or the presence of maternal T cells in
                         the circulation (SCID only)

               2.  Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, DiGeorge syndrome, or ataxia-
                    telangiectasia (or other non-SCID combined
                    immunodeficiency):
                    a.  Diagnosis confirmed by genetic or molecular testing (if
                         applicable), and
                    b.  History of recurrent bacterial infections (e.g.,
                         pneumonia, otitis media, sinusitis, sepsis,
                         gastrointestinal), and
                    c.  Impaired antibody response to pneumococcal
                         polysaccharide vaccine (see Appendix A)

               3.  Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID):
                    a.  Age 2 years or older, and
                    b.  Other causes of immune deficiency have been
                         excluded (e.g., drug induced, genetic disorders,
                         infectious diseases such as HIV, malignancy), and
                    c.  Pretreatment IgG level < 500 mg/dL or ≥ 2 SD below
                         the mean for age, and
                    d.  History of recurrent bacterial infections, and
                    e.  Impaired antibody response to pneumococcal
                         polysaccharide vaccine (see Appendix A)

               4.  Hypogammaglobulinemia (unspecified), IgG subclass
                    deficiency, selective IgA deficiency, selective IgM
                    deficiency, or specific antibody deficiency:
                    a.  History of recurrent bacterial infections, and
                    b.  Impaired antibody response to pneumococcal
                         polysaccharide vaccine (see Appendix A), and
                    c.  Any of the following pre-treatment laboratory findings:
                         i.     Hypogammaglobulinemia: IgG < 500 mg/dL or ≥
                                2 SD below the mean for age
                         ii.    Selective IgA deficiency: IgA level < 7 mg/dL
                                with normal IgG and IgM levels
                         iii.   Selective IgM deficiency: IgM level < 30 mg/dL
                                with normal IgG and IgA levels
                         iv.   IgG subclass deficiency: IgG1, IgG2, or IgG3 ≥ 2
                               SD below mean for age assessed on at least 2
                                occasions; normal IgG (total) and IgM levels,
                                normal/low IgA levels
                         v.    Specific antibody deficiency: normal IgG, IgA and
                                IgM levels

               5.  Other predominant antibody deficiency disorders must
                    meet a., b., and c.i. in section 4. above.

               6.  Other combined immunodeficiency must meet criteria in
                    section 2. above.

               Re-authorization of 12 months may be granted when the
               following criteria are met: 
               1.  A reduction in the frequency of bacterial infections has
                    been demonstrated since initiation of IG therapy, AND
               2.  IgG trough levels are monitored at least yearly and
                    maintained at or above the lower range of normal for age
                    (when applicable for indication), OR
               3.  The prescriber will re-evaluate the dose of IG and
                    consider a dose adjustment (when appropriate).

          B.  Myasthenia Gravis
               1.  Authorization of 1 month may be granted to members
                    who are prescribed IG for worsening weakness, acute
                    exacerbation, or in preparation for surgery.
                    a.  Worsening weakness includes an increase in any of
                         the following symptoms: diplopia, ptosis, blurred
                         vision, difficulty speaking (dysarthria), difficulty
                         swallowing (dysphagia), difficulty chewing, impaired
                         respiratory status, fatigue, and limb weakness. Acute
                         exacerbations include more severe swallowing
                         difficulties and/or respiratory failure
                    b.  Pre-operative management (e.g., prior to
                         thymectomy)
               2.  Authorization of 6 months may be granted to members
                    with refractory myasthenia gravis who have tried and
                    failed 2 or more standard therapies (e.g., corticosteroids,
                    azathioprine, cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil,
                    rituximab).

          C.  Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy
               (CIDP)
               1.  Initial authorization of 3 months may be granted when
                    the following criteria are met:
                    a.  Disease course is progressive or relapsing/remitting
                         for 2 months or longer
                    b.  Moderate to severe functional disability
                    c.  The diagnosis was confirmed by electrodiagnostic
                         studies
               2.  Re-authorization of 6 months may be granted when the
                    following criteria are met:
                    a.  Significant improvement in disability and maintenance
                         of improvement since initiation of IG therapy
                    b.  IG is being used at the lowest effective dose and
                         frequency

          D.  Dermatomyositis or Polymyositis
               1.  Initial authorization of 3 months may be granted when
                    the following criteria are met:
                    a.  Member has at least 4 of the following:
                         i.      Proximal muscle weakness (upper or lower
                                 extremity and trunk)
                         ii.     Elevated serum creatine kinase (CK) or aldolase
                                 level
                         iii.    Muscle pain on grasping or spontaneous pain
                         iv.    Myogenic changes on EMG (short-duration,
                                polyphasic motor unit potentials with
                                spontaneous fibrillation potentials)
                         v.     Positive for anti-synthetase antibodies (e.g.,
                                anti-Jo-1, also called histadyl tRNA synthetase)
                         vi.    Non-destructive arthritis or arthralgias
                         vii.   Systemic inflammatory signs (fever: more than
                                37°C at axilla, elevated serum CRP level or
                                accelerated ESR of more than 20 mm/h by the
                                Westergren method)
                         viii.  Pathological findings compatible with
                                inflammatory myositis (inflammatory infiltration
                                of skeletal evidence of active regeneration may
                                be seen), and
                    b.  Standard first-line treatments (corticosteroids) and
                         second-line treatments (immunosuppressants) have
                         been tried but were unsuccessful or not tolerated, or
                    c.  Member is unable to receive standard first-line and
                         second-line therapy because of a contraindication or
                         other clinical reason.
               2.  Re-authorization of 6 months may be granted when the
                    following criterion is met:
                    a.  Significant improvement in disability and maintenance
                         of improvement since initiation of IG therapy

          E.  Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura ITP/(Immune
               Thrombocytopenia)
               1.  Newly diagnosed ITP (diagnosed within the past 3
                    months) or initial therapy: authorization of 1 month may
                    be granted when the following criteria are met:
                    a.  Children (< 18 years of age)
                         i.     Significant bleeding symptoms (mucosal bleeding
                                or other moderate/severe bleeding) or
                         ii.    High risk for bleeding* (see Appendix B), or
                         iii.   Rapid increase in platelets is required* (e.g.,
                                surgery or procedure)
                    b.  Adults (≥ 18 years of age)
                         i.     Platelet count < 30,000/mcL, or
                         ii.    Platelet count < 50,000/mcL and significant
                                bleeding symptoms, high risk for bleeding or
                                rapid increase in platelets is required*, and
                         iii.   Corticosteroid therapy is contraindicated and IG
                                will be used alone or IG will be used in
                                combination with corticosteroid therapy
               2.  Chronic/persistent ITP (≥ 3 months from diagnosis) or
                    ITP unresponsive to first-line therapy: authorization of 6
                    months may be granted when the following criteria are
                    met:
                    a.  Platelet count < 30,000/mcL, or
                    b.  Platelet count < 50,000/mcL and significant bleeding
                         symptoms, high risk for bleeding* or rapid increase in
                         platelets is required*, and
                    c.  Relapse after previous response to IG or inadequate
                         response/intolerance/contraindication to corticosteroid
                         or anti-D therapy
               3.  Adults with refractory ITP after splenectomy:
                    authorization of 6 months may be granted when either of
                    the following criteria is met:
                    a.  Platelet count < 30,000/mcL, or
                    b.  Significant bleeding symptoms
               4.  ITP in pregnant women: authorization through delivery
                    may be granted to pregnant women with ITP.

                 * The member’s risk factor(s) for bleeding (see Appendix B)
                 or reason requiring a rapid increase in platelets must be
                 provided.

          F.  B-cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
               1.  Initial authorization of 6 months may be granted when all
                    of the following criteria are met:
                    a.  IG is prescribed for prophylaxis of bacterial infections.
                    b.  Member has a history of recurrent sinopulmonary
                         infections requiring intravenous antibiotics or
                         hospitalization.
                    c.  Member has a pretreatment serum IgG level <500
                         mg/dL.
               2.  Re-authorization of 6 months may be granted when a
                    reduction in the frequency of bacterial infections has been
                    demonstrated since initiation of IG therapy.

          G.  Prophylaxis of Bacterial Infections in HIV-Infected
               Pediatric Patients
               1.  Initial authorization of up to 6 months may be granted to
                    pediatric members with HIV infection when any of the
                    following criteria are met:
                    a.  IG is prescribed for primary prophylaxis of bacterial
                         infections and pretreatment serum IgG < 400 mg/dL,
                         or
                    b.  IG is prescribed for secondary prophylaxis of bacterial
                         infections for members with a history of recurrent
                         bacterial infections (> 2 serious bacterial infections in
                         a 1-year period), or
                    c.  Member has failed to form antibodies to common
                         antigens, such as measles, pneumococcal, and/or
                         Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine, or
                    d.  Member lives in an area where measles is highly
                         prevalent and who have not developed an antibody
                         response after two doses of measles, mumps, and
                         rubella virus vaccine live, or
                    e.  Member has been exposed to measles and request is
                         for a single dose, or
                    f.  Member has chronic bronchiectasis that is suboptimally
                        responsive to antimicrobial and pulmonary therapy
               2.  Re-authorization of 6 months may be granted when a
                    reduction in the frequency of bacterial infections has been
                    demonstrated since initiation of IG therapy.

          H.  Bone marrow transplant/hemopoietic stem cell
               transplant (BMT/HSCT)
               1.  Initial authorization of 6 months may be granted to
                    members who are BMT/HSCT recipients when the
                    following criteria are met:
                    a.  Therapy will be used to prevent the risk of acute graft-
                         versus-host disease, associated interstitial pneumonia
                         (infectious or idiopathic), septicemia, and other
                         infections (e.g., cytomegalovirus infections [CMV],
                         recurrent bacterial infection).
                    b.  Either of the following:
                         i.     IG is requested within the first 100 days post-
                                transplant.
                         ii.    Member has a pretreatment serum IgG < 400
                                mg/dL.
               2.  Re-authorization of 6 months may be granted when a
                    reduction in the frequency of bacterial infections has been
                    demonstrated since initiation of IG therapy.

          I.  Multifocal Motor Neuropathy (MMN)
               1.  Initial authorization of 3 months may be granted when
                    the following criteria are met:
                    a.  Member experienced progressive, multifocal,
                         asymmetrical weakness without objective sensory loss
                         in 2 or more nerves for at least 1 month
                    b.  The diagnosis was confirmed by electrodiagnostic
                         studies
               2.  Re-authorization of 6 months may be granted when
                    significant improvement in disability and maintenance of
                    improvement have occurred since initiation of IG therapy

          J.  Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)
               Authorization of 1 month total may be granted for GBS when
               the following criteria are met:
               1.  Member has severe disease with significant weakness
                    (e.g., inability to stand or walk without aid, respiratory
                    weakness)
               2.  Onset of neurologic symptoms occurred less than 4 weeks
                    from the anticipated start of therapy

          K.  Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS)
               1.  Initial authorization of 6 months may be granted for LEMS
                    when the following criteria are met:
                    a.  Diagnosis has been confirmed by either of the
                         following:
                         i.     Neurophysiology studies (e.g., electromyography)
                         ii.    A positive anti- P/Q type voltage-gated calcium
                                channel antibody test
                    b.  Anticholinesterases (eg pyridostigmine) and
                         amifampridine (e.g., 3,4-diaminopyridine phosphate,
                         Firdapse) have been tried but were unsuccessful or
                         not tolerated
                    c.  Weakness is severe or there is difficulty with venous
                         access for plasmapheresis
               2.  Re-authorization of 6 months may be granted when
                    member is responding to therapy (i.e., there is stability or
                    improvement in symptoms relative to the natural course
                    of LEMS).

          L.  Kawasaki Syndrome
               Authorization of 1 month may be granted for pediatric
               members with Kawasaki syndrome.

          M.  Fetal/Neonatal Alloimmune Thrombocytopenia
               (F/NAIT)
Authorization of 6 months may be granted for
               treatment of F/NAIT.

          N.  Parvovirus B19-induced Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA)
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for severe,
               refractory anemia associated with bone marrow suppression,
               with parvovirus B19 viremia.

          O.  Stiff-person Syndrome
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for stiff-person
               syndrome when the following criteria are met:
               1.  Diagnosis has been confirmed by anti-glutamic acid
                    decarboxylase (GAD) antibody testing
               2.  Member had an inadequate response to first-line
                    treatment (benzodiazepines and/or baclofen)

          P.  Management of immune checkpoint inhibitor-related
               toxicities
               Authorization of 1 month may be granted for management of
               immune checkpoint-inhibitor toxicities when all of the
               following criteria are met:
               1.  Member has experienced a moderate or severe adverse
                    event to a PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitor (e.g., pembrolizumab,
                    nivolumab, atezolizumab, avelumab, durvalumab)
               2.  The offending medication has been held or discontinued
               3.  Member experienced one or more of the following adverse
                    events: myocarditis, bullous dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson
                    syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, pneumonitis,
                    myasthenia gravis, peripheral neuropathy, encephalitis,
                    transverse myelitis, severe inflammatory arthritis,
                    Guillain-Barre syndrome, or steroid-refractory myalgias or
                    myositis

          Q.  Acquired Red Cell Aplasia
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for acquired red
               cell aplasia.

          R.  Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis
               Authorization of 1 month may be granted for acute
               disseminated encephalomyelitis in members who have had
               an insufficient response or a contraindication to intravenous
               corticosteroid treatment.

          S.  Autoimmune Mucocutaneous Blistering Disease
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for autoimmune
               mucocutaneous blistering disease (includes pemphigus
               vulgaris, pemphigus foliaceus, bullous pemphigoid, mucous
               membrane pemphigoid, and epidermolysis bullosa acquisita)
               when the following criteria are met:
               1.  Diagnosis has been proven by biopsy and confirmed by
                    pathology report, and
               2.  Condition is rapidly progressing, extensive or debilitating,
                    and
               3.  Member has failed or experienced significant
                    complications (e.g., diabetes, steroid-induced
                    osteoporosis) from standard treatment (corticosteroids,
                    immunosuppressive agents).

          T.  Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for warm-type
               autoimmune hemolytic anemia in members who do not
               respond or have a contraindication to corticosteroids or
               splenectomy.

          U.  Autoimmune Neutropenia
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for autoimmune
               neutropenia where treatment with G-CSF (granulocyte colony
               stimulating factor) is not appropriate.

          V.  Birdshot Retinochoroidopathy
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for birdshot
               (vitiliginous) retinochoroidopathy that is not responsive to
               immunosuppressives (e.g., corticosteroids, cyclosporine).

         W.  BK Virus Associated Nephropathy
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for BK virus
               associated nephropathy.

          X.  Churg-Strauss Syndrome
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for severe, active
               Churg-Strauss syndrome as adjunctive therapy for members
               who have experienced failure, intolerance, or are
               contraindicated to other interventions.

          Y.  Enteroviral Meningoencephalitis
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for severe cases
               of enteroviral meningoencephalitis.

          Z.  Hematophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) or
               Macrophage Activation Syndrome (MAS)
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for treatment of
               hypogammaglobulinemia in HLH or MAS when total IgG is
               less than 400 mg/dL or two standard deviations below the
               mean for age.

       AA.  Hemolytic Disease of Newborn
              Authorization of 6 months may be granted for isoimmune
              hemolytic disease in neonates.

       BB.  HIV-associated Thrombocytopenia
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for HIV-associated
               thrombocytopenia when the following criteria are met:
               1.  Pediatric members with IgG < 400 mg/dL and one of the
                    following:
                    a.  2 or more bacterial infections in a 1-year period
                         despite antibiotic chemoprophylaxis with TMP-SMZ or
                         another active agent, or
                    b.  Received 2 doses of measles vaccine and lives in a
                         region with a high prevalence or measles, or
                    c.  HIV-associated thrombocytopenia despite anti-
                         retroviral therapy, or
                    d.  Chronic bronchiectasis that is suboptimally responsive
                         to antimicrobial and pulmonary therapy, or
                    e.  T4 cell count ≥ 200/mm3
               2.  Adult members with significant bleeding, platelet count <
                    20,000/mcL, and failure of RhIG in Rh-positive patients

        CC.  Hyperimmunoglobulinemia E Syndrome
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted to treat severe
               eczema in hyperimmunoglobulinemia E syndrome.

        DD.  Hypogammaglobulinemia from CAR-T therapy
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for members with
               IgG < 400 mg/dL receiving treatment with CAR-T therapy
               (including but not limited to idecabtagene vicleucel
               [Abecma], tisagenlecleucel [Kymriah], or axicabtagene
               ciloleucel [Yescarta]).

        EE.  Multiple Myeloma
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for multiple
               myeloma in members who have recurrent, serious infections
               despite the use of prophylactic antibiotics.

        FF.  Neonatal Hemochromatosis
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for prophylaxis in
               members who are pregnant with a history of pregnancy
               ending in documented neonatal hemochromatosis.

       GG.  Opsoclonus-myoclonus
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for treatment of
               either of the following:
               1.  Paraneoplastic opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia associated
                    with neuroblastoma
               2.  Refractory opsoclonus-myoclonus, as last-resort
                    treatment

       HH.  Post-transfusion Purpura
               Authorization of 1 month may be granted for post-
               transfusion purpura.

         II.  Rasmussen Encephalitis
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for Rasmussen
               encephalitis in members whose symptoms do not improve
               with anti-epileptic drugs and corticosteroids.

         JJ.  Renal Transplantation
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for a member
               undergoing renal transplantation from a live donor with ABO
               incompatibility or positive cross match.

        KK.  Secondary Immunosuppression Associated with Major
               Surgery, Hematological Malignancy, Major Burns, and
               Collagen-Vascular Diseases
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted to prevent or
               modify recurrent bacterial or viral infections in members with
               secondary immunosuppression (IgG < 400 mg/dL)
               associated with major surgery, hematological malignancy,
               extensive burns, or collagen-vascular disease.

        LL.  Solid Organ Transplantation
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for solid organ
               transplantation for allosensitized members.

      MM.  Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis and Stevens-Johnson
               Syndrome
               Authorization of 1 month may be granted for severe cases of
               toxic epidermal necrolysis or Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

       NN.  Toxic Shock Syndrome
               Authorization of 1 month may be granted for staphylococcal
               or streptococcal toxic shock syndrome when the infection is
               refractory to several hours of aggressive therapy, an
               undrainable focus is present, or the member has persistent
               oliguria with pulmonary edema.

       OO.  Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
               Authorization of 6 months may be granted for severe, active
               SLE in members who have experienced inadequate response,
               intolerance or have a contraindication to first and second line
               therapies (e.g., hydroyxychloroquine, glucocorticoids,
               anifrolumab, rituximab).

        PP.  Measles (Rubeola) prophylaxis
               Authorization of 1 month may be granted for postexposure
               prophylaxis to prevent or modify symptoms of measles
               (rubeola) in susceptible members exposed to the disease less
               than 6 days previously.

       QQ.  Tetanus treatment and prophylaxis
               Authorization of 1 month may be granted for treatment or
               postexposure prophylaxis of tetanus as an alternative when
               tetanus immune globulin (TIG) is unavailable.

       RR.  Varicella prophylaxis
               Authorization of 1 month may be granted for postexposure
               prophylaxis of varicella in susceptible individuals when
               varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG) is unavailable.

        SS.  Toxic Necrotizing Fasciitis Due To Group A
               Streptococcus
               Authorization of 1 month may be granted for members with
               fasciitis due to invasive streptococcal infection.

   IV.  CONTINUATION OF THERAPY

          Authorization may be granted for continuation of therapy when
          either the following criteria is met:
          A.  For conditions with reauthorization criteria listed under
               section III: Members who are currently receiving IG therapy
               must meet the applicable reauthorization criteria for the
               member’s condition.
          B.  For all other conditions, all members (including new
               members) must meet initial authorization criteria.


    V.  APPENDICES

          Appendix A: Impaired Antibody Response to Pneumococcal
          Polysaccharide Vaccine
          •   Age 2 years and older: impaired antibody response
              demonstrated to vaccination with a pneumococcal
              polysaccharide vaccine
          •   Not established for children less than 2 years of age
          •   Excludes the therapy initiated in the hospital setting

          Appendix B: Examples of Risk Factors for Bleeding (not all
          inclusive)
          •   Undergoing a medical or dental procedure where blood loss is
               anticipated
          •   Comorbidity (eg, peptic ulcer disease, hypertension)
          •   Mandated anticoagulation therapy
          •   Profession or lifestyle predisposes patient to trauma (eg,
              construction worker, fireman, professional athlete)


Place of Service:

Outpatient

The above policy is based on the following references:
  1. Asceniv [package insert]. Boca Raton, FL: ADMA Biologics; April 2019.
  2. Bivigam [package insert]. Boca Raton, FL: ADMA Biologics; December 2022.
  3. Carimune NF [package insert]. Kankakee, IL: CSL Behring LLC; May 2018.
  4. Flebogamma 10% DIF [package insert]. Los Angeles, CA: Grifols Biologicals, Inc.; September 2019.
  5. Flebogamma 5% DIF [package insert]. Los Angeles, CA: Grifols Biologicals, Inc.; September 2019.
  6. Gammagard Liquid [package insert]. Westlake Village, CA: Baxalta US Inc.; March 2023.
  7. Gammagard S/D [package insert]. Lexington, MA: Baxalta US Inc.; March 2023.
  8. Gammagard S/D IgA less than 1 mcg/mL [package insert]. Westlake Village, CA: Baxalta US Inc.; September 2016.
  9. Gammaked [package insert]. Research Triangle Park, NC: Grifols Therapeutics LLC; January 2020.
  10. Gammaplex 5% [package insert]. Hertfordshire, United Kingdom: Bio Products Laboratory; November 2021.
  11. Gammaplex 10% [package insert]. Hertfordshire, United Kingdom: Bio Products Laboratory; November 2021.
  12. Gamunex-C [package insert]. Research Triangle Park, NC: Grifols Therapeutics Inc.; January 2020.
  13. Octagam 10% [package insert]. Hoboken, NJ: Octapharma USA, Inc.; April 2022.
  14. Octagam 5% [package insert]. Hoboken, NJ: Octapharma USA, Inc.; April 2022.
  15. Panzyga [package insert]. Hoboken, NJ: Octapharma USA.; February 2021.
  16. Privigen [package insert]. Kankakee, IL: CSL Behring LLC; March 2022.
  17. DRUGDEX® System (electronic version). Truven Health Analytics, Ann Arbor, MI. Available at http://www.micromedexsolutions.com [available with subscription]. Accessed May 5, 2023.
  18. AHFS Drug Information. http://online.lexi.com/lco. Accessed May 5, 2023.
  19. Perez EE, Orange JS, Bonilla F, et al. Update on the use of immunoglobulin in human disease: a review of evidence by Work Group Report of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2017;139:S1-46.
  20. Panel on Opportunistic Infections in HIV-Exposed and HIV-Infected Children. Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Opportunistic Infections in HIV-Exposed and HIV-Infected Children. Department of Health and Human Services. Available at: https://clinicalinfo.hiv.gov/sites/default/files/guidelines/documents/pediatric-oi/guidelines-pediatric-oi.pdf. Accessed May 5, 2023.
  21. Tomblyn M, Chiller T, Einsele H, et al. Guidelines for preventing infectious complications among hematopoietic cell transplant recipients: a global perspective. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant. 2009;15(10):1143-1238.
  22. Feasby T, Banwell B, Bernstead T, et al. Guidelines on the use of intravenous immune globulin for neurologic conditions. Transfus Med Rev. 2007;21(2):S57-S107.
  23. Donofrio PD, Berger A, Brannagan TH 3rd, et al. Consensus statement: the use of intravenous immunoglobulin in the treatment of neuromuscular conditions report of the AANEM ad hoc committee. Muscle Nerve. 2009;40(5):890-900.
  24. Elovaara I, Apostolski S, van Doorn P, et al. EFNS guidelines for the use of intravenous immunoglobulin in treatment of neurological diseases: EFNS task force on the use of intravenous immunoglobulin in treatment of neurological diseases. Eur J Neurol. 2008;15(9):893-908.
  25. Patwa HS, Chaudhry V, Katzberg H, et al. Evidence-based guideline: intravenous immunoglobulin in the treatment of neuromuscular disorders: report of the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Neurology. 2012;78(13);1009-1015.
  26. Anderson D, Kaiser A, Blanchette V, et al. Guidelines on the use of intravenous immune globulin for hematologic conditions. Transfus Med Rev. 2007;21(2):S9-S56.
  27. Picard C, Al-Herz W, Bousfiha A, et al. Primary immunodeficiency diseases: an update on the classification from the International Union of Immunological Societies Expert Committee for Primary Immunodeficiency. J Clin Immunol. 2015; 35(8):696-726.
  28. Bonilla FA, Khan DA, Ballas ZK, et al. Practice parameter for the diagnosis and management of primary immunodeficiency. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2015;136(5):1186-205.e1-78.
  29. Orange JS, Ballow M, Stiehm ER, et al. Use and interpretation of diagnostic vaccination in primary immunodeficiency: a working group report of the Basic and Clinical Immunology Interest section of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;130:S1-S24.
  30. Ameratunga R, Woon ST, Gillis D, Koopmans W, Steele R. New diagnostic criteria for common variable immune deficiency (CVID), which may assist with decisions to treat with intravenous or subcutaneous immunoglobulin. Clin Exp Immunol. 2013;174(2):203-11.
  31. Immune Deficiency Foundation. About primary immunodeficiencies. Specific disease types. http://primaryimmune.org/about-primary-immunodeficiencies/specific-disease-types/. Accessed May 5, 2023.
  32. European Society for Immunodeficiencies. Diagnostic criteria for PID. http://esid.org/Working-Parties/Clinical/Resources/Diagnostic-criteria-for-PID2. Accessed May 5, 2023.
  33. Immune Deficiency Foundation. Diagnostic and Clinical Care Guidelines for Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases. 3rd edition. Towson, MD: Immune Deficiency Foundation; 2015. http://primaryimmune.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/2015-Diagnostic-and-Clinical-Care-Guidelines-for-PI.pdf. Accessed May 5, 2023.
  34. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology® Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (Version 2.2023). © 2023 National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Inc. https://www.nccn.org. Accessed May 4, 2023.
  35. Van den Bergh PY, Hadden RD, van Doorn PA, et al. European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society guideline on management of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy: report of a joint task force of the European Federation of Neurological Societies and the Peripheral Nerve Society - second revision. Eur J Neurol. 2021;28(11):3556-3583.
  36. Joint Task Force of the EFNS and the PNS. European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Societies guideline on management of multifocal motor neuropathy. J Peripher Nerv Syst. 2010;15:295-301.
  37. Olney RK, Lewis RA, Putnam TD, Campellone JV. Consensus criteria for the diagnosis of multifocal motor neuropathy. Muscle Nerve. 2003;27:117-121.
  38. Dalakas M. Inflammatory muscle diseases. N Engl J Med. 2015;372(18):1734-1747.
  39. Neunert C, Terrell DR, Arnold DM, et al. American Society of Hematology 2019 guidelines for immune thrombocytopenia. Blood Adv. 2019;3(23):3829-3866.
  40. Provan D, Arnold DM, Bussel JB, et al. Updated international consensus report on the investigation and management of primary immune thrombocytopenia. Blood Adv2019;3(22): 3780–3817.
  41. Shearer WT, Dunn E, Notarangelo LD, et al. Establishing diagnostic criteria for severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID), leaky SCID, and Omenn syndrome: the Primary Immune Deficiency Treatment Consortium experience. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2014;133(4):1092.
  42. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology® Management of Immunotherapy-Related Toxicities (Version 1.2023). © 2023 National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Inc. https://www.nccn.org. Accessed May 5, 2023.
  43. [HIVPeds]Working Group on Antiretroviral Therapy of the National Pediatric HIV Resource Center. Antiretroviral therapy and medical management of pediatric HIV infection. Pediatrics. 1998;102;1005-1063.
  44. Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Intravenous immune globulin for autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering diseases. Decision Memorandum. CPG-00109N. Baltimore, MD: CMS; January 22, 2002.
  45. Sawinski D, Goral S. BK virus infection: An update on diagnosis and treatment. Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2015;30(2):209-217.
  46. Groh M, Pagnoux C, Baldini C, et al. Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Churg–Strauss) (EGPA)Consensus Task Force recommendations for evaluation and management. Eur J Intern Med. 2015;26(7):545-553.
  47. McKinney RE, Katz SL, Wilfert CM. Chronic enteroviral meningoencephalitis in agammaglobulinemic patients. Rev Infect Dis. 1987;9(2):334-56.
  48. Sen, E.S., Clarke, SL, Ramanan, A.V. Macrophage Activation Syndrome. Indian J Pediatr. 2016;83(3): 248-53.
  49. Kimata H. High-dose intravenous gammaglobulin treatment of hyperimmunoglobulinemia E syndrome. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1995;95:771-774.
  50. Yescarta [package insert]. Santa Monica, CA: Kite Pharma; September 2022.
  51. Kymriah [package insert]. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; May 2022.
  52. Lexi-Drugs. Lexicomp. Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Riverwoods, IL. Available at https://www.online.lexi.com [available with subscription]. Accessed May 5, 2023.
  53. Whitington PF, Kelly S. Outcome of pregnancies at risk for neonatal hemochromatosis is improved by treatment with high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin. Pediatrics. 2008;121(6):e1615-e1621.
  54. Tate ED, Pranzatelli MR, Verhulst SJ, et al. Active comparator-controlled rater-blinded study of corticotropin-based immunotherapies for opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome. J Child Neurol. 2012; 27:875-884.
  55. Mutch LS, Johnston DL. Late presentation of opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome in a child with stage 4S neuroblastoma. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2005;27(6):341-343.
  56. Sonnenday CJ, Ratner LE, Zachary AA, et al. Preemptive therapy with plasmapheresis/intravenous immunoglobulin allows successful live donor renal transplantation in patients with a positive cross-match. Transplant Proc. 2002;34(5):1614-1616.
  57. Razonable RR, Humar A. Cytomegalovirus in Solid Organ Transplantation. Am J Transplant. 2013;13:93-106.
  58. Jordan SC, Toyoda M, Kahwaji J, et al. Clinical Aspects of Intravenous Immunoglobulin Use in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients. Am J Transplant. 2011;11:196-202
  59. Kimberlin DW, Brady MT, Jackson MA, et al. Staphylococcus aureus. American Academy of Pediatrics. Red Book: 2018 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases. 2018:733-746
  60. Gordon C, Amissah-Arthur MB, Gayed M, et al. British Society for Rheumatology guideline on management of systemic lupus erythematosus in adults. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2018;57:e1-45.
  61. Abecma [package insert]. Summit, NJ: Celgene Corporation; October 2022.
  62. Alyglo [package insert]. Teaneck, NJ: GC Biopharma USA, Inc.; December 2023.
  63. Illinois Statutes Chapter 215. Insurance § 5/356z.24. Immune gamma globulin therapy: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/021500050K356z.24.htm

 

Copyright Aetna Inc. All rights reserved. Pharmacy Clinical Policy Bulletins are developed by Aetna to assist in administering plan benefits and constitute neither offers of coverage nor medical advice. This Clinical Policy Bulletin contains only a partial, general description of plan or program benefits and does not constitute a contract. Aetna does not provide health care services and, therefore, cannot guarantee any results or outcomes. Participating providers are independent contractors in private practice and are neither employees nor agents of Aetna or its affiliates. Treating providers are solely responsible for medical advice and treatment of members. This Clinical Policy Bulletin may be updated and therefore is subject to change.

February 18, 2024
Aetna
Skip Past Footer Links
Company Information   |   Site Map Aetna.com Home   |   Help   |   Contact Us   |   Search
Web Privacy Statement   |   Legal Statement   |   Privacy Notices   |   Member Disclosure

Back to top