The Diagnosing & Treatment Process of an Immune System Deficiency

Immunodeficiencies are a very serious health risk. If you have even the slightest suspicion you may be Immune Deficient, you need to visit a specialist as soon as possible. A common mistake is confusing it with allergies, but if you are consistently not feeling well, it could be your body constantly trying to fight sickness.

Here at Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Medical Group, we have a team of experts that specialize in Immunology. We can accurately diagnose and treat you so immune deficiency does not rule your life. Call us at 805-658-9500 or book an appointment online by visiting our Contact Page.

Continue reading below to find out about the process of diagnosing immune deficiency and how it is typically treated.

How to Diagnose an Immune Deficiency

There are over 150 different diseases within the category of Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD). Some possible signs that you may have a defect in your immune system include:

• Infections that recur frequently or are difficult to treat
• Poor growth or inability to retain weight
• Recurring pneumonia, ear infections, or sinusitis
• Swollen lymph glands
• A family history of immune deficiency

Often, PIDD symptoms are extremely similar to common allergies such as allergic asthma or eczema. This makes sense since allergies are caused by improper immune system responses.

However, allergies and immune deficiency diseases require dramatically different treatments, so it is important to get an accurate diagnosis. Early detection and diagnosis improve clinical outcomes greatly.

All of our physicians are trained and board certified in Allergy and Immunology and can therefore make an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan in collaboration with trusted specialists as needed.

Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy

Immunoglobulin replacement therapy can be administered either intravenously or subcutaneously. With the IV option, treatment is required once a month, but when the therapy is delivered under the skin, treatments must be done every week. Both methods of IgG delivery are proven effective at replacing IgG to the level necessary to fight infections.

Immunoglobulin replacement therapy is not administered at our office, but we will still be actively involved in the creation and monitoring of your treatment plan. We can partner with your specialty pharmacy to have the treatments provided in the comfort of your own home or recommend an infusion center to administer the treatments.

Seek the Help You Need

If you believe to be experiencing Immune Deficiency symptoms, you need to seek professional medical help. Call Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology today at 805-658-9500 and begin the path to leading a more normal life. You can also easily fill out a quick form on our Contact Page and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.