Living with a primary immune deficiency disease (PIDD) can be a challenge. The good news is that immunoglobulin (Ig) therapy can help manage the condition. And we’re here to help you learn about the condition and Ig therapy.
About PIDD
PIDDs are rare conditions that affect the immune system. PIDDs cover more than 300 different diseases that develop when a part of the immune system is either missing or doesn’t work well enough. Your immune system makes Ig to attack things like germs that can harm your body. When the immune system is deficient, you don’t have enough Ig to help prevent infections. Learn more about how Ig works.
The immune system is very complex and involves many cells in the body. A person can have a defect in any of those cells. That’s why there are so many types of PIDD. PIDD is genetic or inherited.
With a PIDD, you’re more likely to get infections and become sick from them. You may also get infections from germs that don’t make other people sick. When you do get an infection, it’s often harder to treat. For example, a cold is more likely to turn into pneumonia (lung infection) in someone with a PIDD.
PIDD is often diagnosed when a person is an infant or young child. But, it can also be diagnosed later in life. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of PIDD, but you may have:
- Infections that keep coming back or are hard to treat
- Swollen lymph nodes or a swollen spleen
- Abscesses (pus-filled lump) inside the body or on the skin
- Slowed growth
Blood tests will show how your immune system is working.
Treating PIDD
Your doctor will likely treat your infection with medications. These may be antibiotics, antivirals or antifungals depending on the type of germ that is causing the infection. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for you to take every day to help prevent an infection.
Ig therapy is another treatment option. Ig therapy can make your immune system stronger. You may receive Ig therapy in two ways:
- Intravenous Ig therapy or IVIg is given into your vein. It’s infused every three to four weeks to treat your PIDD. IVIg is infused by a health care provider.
- Subcutaneous Ig therapy or SCIg is given under the skin. It’s typically given once a week. If your doctor feels this is an option for you, you’ll be trained to infuse the therapy on your own.
Right now, stem cell transplant is the only cure for PIDD. A stem cell transplant involves weakening the immune system in your body. Then it gives you a healthy one from the blood and plasma of a healthy donor. Stem cell transplantation is an intense process. Ask your doctor if this is an option for you. Go over the risks and benefits together.
Preventing Infections
Keeping with healthy habits is another way to protect yourself. Follow these tips to help reduce your risk for infections:
- Stay away from people who are sick
- Wash your hands well and often
- Be sure to get all your vaccines
- Get enough sleep
- Eat a healthy diet
Learn more about staying healthy and avoiding infections.
CVS Specialty® and Coram® CVS Specialty Infusion Services (Coram) work together to dispense and administer Ig therapy to patients. Choose pickup or contactless delivery of your infusion therapy and supplies to your door. Find out more here.
Disclaimers
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about your medical condition and prior to starting any new treatment. Coram assumes no liability whatsoever for the information provided or for any diagnosis or treatment made as a result.
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