Primary immune deficiency disorders, or primary immunodeficiency disorders, prevent the body from fighting infections and diseases. They disrupt the body’s natural ability to defend itself against pathogens, making it easy to develop infections and get sick. There are more than 400 of these rare, chronic disorders known today. While these disorders are present at birth, they may not show symptoms until childhood or later.
Symptoms
You may want to speak with your physician about primary immunodeficiency if you have an infection that has any of the following characteristics:
- Severe enough to require hospitalization or intravenous antibiotics
- Will not clear up or clears slowly
- Keeps coming back several times in one period
Examples of infections may include:
- Pink eye
- Sinus infections
- Colds
- Diarrhea
- Pneumonia
- Yeast infections
Causes
Primary immunodeficiencies are caused by genetic mutations, meaning that the person is born with their condition. People with a family history of primary immunodeficiency may have a higher risk for developing this condition.
Treatment
Treatment for primary immunodeficiency generally involves antibiotics and immunoglobulin (IgG) therapy. IgG therapy can strengthen the immune system and help immune-deficient patients fight off infections.
Some people have immunoglobulin replacement therapy as an injection under the skin. This is called subcutaneous immunoglobulin therapy (SCIG). The immunoglobulins are given by slowly injecting purified IgG into the fatty tissue just underneath the skin. SCIG can be administered at home or at one of our offices.
Our team of specialized clinicians can discuss whether immunoglobulin replacement therapy would be beneficial for you. Contact Northeast Allergy, Asthma & Immunology today to schedule your appointment.
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