What Are Immune Deficiency Disorders?
Immune deficiency disorders are conditions in which the immune system is not working properly. This can make the body more susceptible to infections, such as colds, flu, and pneumonia. Immune deficiency disorders can also lead to autoimmune disorders, in which the immune system attacks its own tissues.
There are many different types of immune deficiency disorders, each with its own unique cause and symptoms. Some common types of immune deficiency disorders include:
* Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is a rare disorder in which the body does not produce any white blood cells. This makes people with SCID very susceptible to infections.
* Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a chronic disorder in which the body produces low levels of antibodies. This makes people with CVID more susceptible to infections.
* X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA) is a disorder in which the body does not produce any gamma globulins. Gamma globulins are proteins that help the body fight infections.
* DiGeorge syndrome is a disorder that occurs when the thymus gland does not develop properly. This leads to a deficiency in T cells, which are a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infections.
* HIV/AIDS is a virus that attacks the immune system, leading to a severe immunodeficiency disorder.
Symptoms of immune deficiency disorders can vary depending on the type of disorder. Some common symptoms include:
* Frequent infections
* Severe infections
* Infections that do not respond to treatment
* Autoimmune disorders
* Fatigue
* Weight loss
* Diarrhea
* Swollen lymph nodes
* Fever
* Skin problems
If you think you may have an immune deficiency disorder, it is important to see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious complications.
Treatment for immune deficiency disorders
The goal of treatment for immune deficiency disorders is to help the body fight off infections and prevent complications. Treatment options may include:
* Antibiotics to treat infections
* Replacement therapy to provide the body with the immune proteins that it is missing
* Bone marrow transplant to replace the bone marrow with healthy bone marrow
* Gene therapy to correct the genetic defect that is causing the immune deficiency disorder