UNDERSTANDING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Immune Deficiency Disorders
The immune system is a complex network that defends the body against bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Immune deficiency disorders occur when this system is compromised, often manifesting as frequent, severe, or unusually persistent infections that require specialized medical intervention.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Common Symptoms of Immune Deficiency
- Frequent sinus infections
- Recurrent ear infections
- Repeated bronchitis or pneumonia
- Chronic sinusitis
- Infections that require frequent antibiotics
- Infections that are severe or slow to resolve
Frequent or unusually severe infections prompting evaluation are often the first sign that the immune system may not be functioning optimally.
Immune System Evaluation
Immunologic evaluation begins with a detailed history, physical exam, and specialized blood testing to determine how well your immune system is protecting you.
- IgG Antibodies
- IgA Antibodies
- IgM Antibodies
Additional testing for vaccine responses may also be necessary to obtain a complete picture of immune health.
Treatment Options for Immune Deficiency
Treatment for immune deficiency disorders is highly personalized and depends on the specific deficiency identified. For many individuals, advanced management strategies such as immunoglobulin replacement therapy are essential to maintaining health and vitality.
Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy
Immunoglobulin therapy provides patients with the antibodies (IgG) their bodies cannot produce naturally. This critical treatment boosts the immune system, significantly reducing the frequency of infections and helping to prevent long-term complications.
IVIG (Intravenous Immunoglobulin)
IVIG is administered directly into a vein, typically in a clinical setting like our office or an infusion center. These treatments are usually performed once every 3 to 4 weeks, providing a high dose of protection that lasts throughout the month.
SCIG (Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin)
SCIG involves administered purified antibodies under the skin, often in the comfort of your own home. This method uses smaller, more frequent doses to maintain consistent antibody levels in the blood, offering flexibility and independence for many patients.
Both IVIG and SCIG have been shown to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of infections and improve protection for those with immune deficiencies.
Benefits of Treatment
- Reduce infections
- Decrease need for antibiotics
- Improve overall health and quality of life
- Help prevent complications
Our goal is to help you and your family live healthy and active lives.
10 Warning Signs of Primary Immunodeficiency
- Four or more new ear infections within one year.
- Two or more serious sinus infections within one year.
- Two or more months on antibiotics with little effect.
- Two or more pneumonias within one year.
- Failure of an infant to gain weight or grow normally.
- Recurrent, deep skin or organ abscesses.
- Persistent thrush in mouth or fungal infection on skin.
- Need for intravenous antibiotics to clear infections.
- Two or more deep-seated infections including septicemia.
- A family history of PI.
If you or your child are affected by two or more of these signs, please speak to your physician about a possible evaluation.