Treatment for Primary Immunodeficiencies
At Impact Medical, we specialize in diagnosing and treating primary immunodeficiencies. Our immunologists will work with you to create a treatment plan that will help you manage your symptoms and experience relief.
What is Primary Immunodeficiency?
The immune system “protects” us from infections. An immunodeficiency is a defect in your immune system. Immunodeficiency increases one’s risk of developing recurrent and severe infections. The symptoms of an immunodeficiency vary depending on the part of your immune system that is affected; the most common symptoms include recurrent infections, prolonged infections that do not respond readily to antibiotics, unexplained fatigue, and a heightened vulnerability to certain autoimmune diseases.
Diagnosing & Treating Primary Immunodeficiencies
Family & Medical History
A crucial diagnostic clue, an individual’s personal history of recurrent or severe infections, such as chronic sinusitis, recurrent pneumonia, or frequent skin infections, can indicate the presence of a primary immunodeficiency.
A family history of primary immunodeficiencies can be a significant indicator, suggesting a genetic predisposition to immune system defects. It prompts healthcare providers to investigate further.
Physical Exam
During a physical examination, healthcare professionals may look for signs of immunodeficiency, such as enlarged lymph nodes or an enlarged spleen.
These findings can guide the diagnostic process. The specific types of infections a person develops can provide valuable diagnostic information.
For instance, recurrent or unusually severe infections, especially involving normally harmless pathogens, can signal an underlying immunodeficiency.
Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests are essential for diagnosing primary immunodeficiencies.
These tests may include immune function assessments, such as measuring antibody or immunoglobulin levels, immune cell counts, and functional assays to identify specific defects in the immune system.
Treatment
Your medical provider will determine the treatment for you based on the type of Primary Immunodeficiency diagnosed. Treatments may include Gamma Globulin Infusions or aggressive antibiotics.
What Are Types of Primary Immunodeficiencies?
Learn more about the specific types of immunodeficiencies that we treat below.
Common Variable Immunodeficiency
A primary immunodeficiency disorder characterized by reduced antibody production and/or poor antibody function. This leads to recurrent infections such as sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, and meningitis.
Specific Antibody Deficiency
A condition marked by a deficiency in specific antibodies, making individuals vulnerable to infections such as sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia and meningitis.
Complement Deficiencies
There are several different complement proteins that are important in protecting us from certain type of infections, specifically bacterial infections including Mannose Binding Lectin Deficiency, Early Complement Deficiencies, and Late Complement Deficiencies.
Primary Immunodeficiency Treatment
Primary Immunodeficiencies FAQ
Risk factors for recurrent sinus infections include allergies, immunodeficiency and anatomical risk factors such as large adenoids and Nasal Polyps.
An Immunologist can evaluate your immune system for potential immunodeficiencies. At Impact Medical we specialize in Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
Yes. It is possible for an immunodeficiency to manifest as an adult.
