About immunoglobulin deficiency

What is immunoglobulin deficiency?

Agammaglobulinemia is a group of inherited immune deficiencies characterized by a low concentration of antibodies in the blood due to the lack of particular lymphocytes in the blood and lymph. Antibodies are proteins (immunoglobulins, (IgM), (IgG) etc) that are critical and key components of the immune system. They are essential if the immune system is to do its job of fighting off bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances that threaten the body. The specialized precursor cells that produce gammaglobulins, fail to develop or function properly leading to the deficiency in the number of mature lymphocyte cells called B cells.

The types of agammaglobulinemia are: X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA), the much rarer X-linked agammaglobulinemia with growth hormone deficiency (about 10 cases reported), and autosomal recessive agammaglobulinemia (ARAG). All of these disorders are characterized by a weakened immune system that must be strengthened by the administration of gammaglobulin in order to fight off infections.

What are the symptoms for immunoglobulin deficiency?

Most people with selective IgA deficiency don't have recurrent infections. However, some people who have IgA deficiency experience pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, allergies, asthma and diarrhea.

What are the causes for immunoglobulin deficiency?

Autoimmune diseases, in which your immune system attacks particular organs or tissues in your own body, can be found with selective IgA deficiency. Common autoimmune conditions found with IgA deficiency include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.

What are the treatments for immunoglobulin deficiency?

Most people with selective IgA deficiency don't need treatment unless they have frequent infections. In some cases, treatment may include a long course of antibiotics to help prevent an infection from returning.

What are the risk factors for immunoglobulin deficiency?

There are no known risk factors for immunoglobulin deficiency, but research may suggest a low percentage of inheritance. 

Is there a cure/medications for immunoglobulin deficiency?

There is no specific curable treatment or medications available for Immunoglobulin deficiency.

  • In some situations, Immunotherapy is one f the best therapy for people with the condition, that aids in the production of antibodies.
  • Even though therapy plays a vital role, it cannot completely treat it.
  • The treatment plan depends on how severe the deficient condition and its symptoms are.
  • Generally, patients will be prescribed antibiotics when they get sick, to lower the effect of illness or infection.
  • If the condition is chronic, then they need to take antibiotics on a daily basis.
  • Since immunoglobulin deficiency is an issue that passes down to an individual through their family, it cannot be prevented.
  • Nonetheless, it is possible to limit the spread of infections by practicing proper good hygienic and dietary habits.

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