Immunodeficiency Specialist

Immunodeficiency describes health conditions that weaken your immune system. Typically, you inherit immunodeficiency disorders from one or both of your parents. This is called primary immunodeficiency.

You can also get the disorder later in life. That’s called secondary immunodeficiency. It’s usually caused by diabetes, malnutrition, unsafe sexual practices, intravenous drug use, and/or chemotherapy and other cancer treatments. Common types of secondary immunodeficiency include acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and leukemia.

When your body can’t defend itself from bacteria, parasites, and viruses, you’ll get sick more frequently than other people. Other common symptoms of an immunodeficiency disorder include:

• Frequent infections
• Recurrent diarrhea
• Blood disorders
• Changes in appetite
• Inflammation of internal organs

Children with immunodeficiency disorders can experience delays in their development and growth.

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation for immunodeficiency if you or your child suffers frequent illnesses like bronchitis or pneumonia or recurrent infections in your ears, sinuses, or skin.

The Apex Allergy and Asthma providers use blood tests to identify abnormalities that indicate a dysfunctional immune system. Blood work can also identify underlying, active infections.

They work closely with you on a treatment plan to reduce your risk of developing more severe complications that can result from immunodeficiency disorders. These include organ damage, digestive tract dysfunction, and potentially life-threatening infections.

The goals of treating immunodeficiency are to reduce your risk of infections and improve the health of your immune system.

Apex Allergy and Asthma offers:

Antibiotics

If you have an existing infection, you might need antibiotics to clear it. Some people must take antibiotics for a longer period to prevent repeated infections.

Antivirals

Some conditions, including AIDS, require antiviral medications to keep symptoms under control and prevent serious complications.

Immunoglobulin therapy

Immunoglobulin therapy involves intravenous or subcutaneous (below the skin) infusions of antibody proteins that boost the immune system and fight off new infections.

Other immunodeficiency treatments

If you have an existing autoimmune disorder that contributes to immunodeficiency, you might need other treatments.  The providers at Apex Allergy and Asthma can discuss your options for managing these conditions during your appointment.

When these therapies aren’t enough, and you struggle to keep your symptoms under control, you might be a candidate for a stem cell transplant. Stem cells taken from your bone marrow can be used to improve the function of your immune system and reduce your risk of developing long-term and life-threatening complications of immunodeficiency.

To learn more about the available treatments for immunodeficiency, call the Apex Allergy and Asthma office nearest you or book a consultation online today.