Immunodeficiency

What Is Immunodeficiency?

Primary immunodeficiency diseases (also called primary immune disorders) occur when the immune system doesn’t function properly, making it harder for the body to fight infections and other health problems.


There are more than 300 types of primary immunodeficiency, ranging from mild to severe. Some forms are so mild that they may go unnoticed until adulthood, while others are severe enough to be diagnosed right after birth. These conditions leave the body vulnerable to infections and require careful management to maintain overall health.

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Symptoms of Primary Immunodeficiency

One of the most common signs of immunodeficiency is frequent, prolonged, or hard-to-treat infections. However, the specific signs and symptoms of immunodeficiency can vary depending on the individual's type of primary immunodeficiency disorder.


If you or someone you know is affected by two or more of the following warning signs, it could indicate an underlying primary immunodeficiency:


  • Four or more ear infections within one year
  • Two or more cases of pneumonia within one year
  • Need for intravenous antibiotics to clear infections
  • Failure of an infant to gain weight or grow normally
  • Two or more serious sinus infections within one year
  • Recurrent, itchy, and inflamed skin or organ abscesses
  • Two or more deep-seated infections, including septicemia
  • Persistent thrush in the mouth or fungal infection on the skin
  • Prolonged antibiotic use (two or more months) with little to no improvement


Common complications may include:


  • Slowed growth
  • Recurrent infections
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Increased risk of cancer
  • Death from a severe infection
  • Damage to the heart, lungs, nervous system, or digestive tract

What are the Causes of Immunodeficiency?

Many primary immunodeficiency disorders are inherited, meaning they are passed down from one or both parents. These conditions arise from defects in the genetic code (DNA), which serves as the body’s blueprint for creating immune cells. Immunodeficiency can affect anyone, but individuals with a family history of the condition are at a higher risk. 


Primary immunodeficiencies typically develop before age 20 and are more common among men than women. With over 300 types of immunodeficiency disorders—and researchers continuing to discover more—they are broadly classified into six groups based on the affected part of the immune system. Some key causes include:


  • T cell deficiencies
  • B cell (antibody) deficiencies
  • Combination T and B cell deficiencies
  • Defective phagocytes
  • Complement deficiencies
  • Unknown (idiopathic)


By thoroughly identifying the underlying cause of your immunodeficiency, our experienced immunology experts at Premier Allergy TX can develop a personalized and targeted treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

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Immunodeficiency Treatment and Management

If you are diagnosed with primary immunodeficiency, your treatment goals will include managing existing infections and preventing future ones. The type of primary immunodeficiency treatment you receive depends on your specific condition. 


Your immunologist may prescribe the following medications:


  • Antibiotics (to fight off or prevent bacterial infections)
  • Antivirals (to help you recover from infections caused by viruses)
  • Immune globulin (can be administered through IV to replace some types of immune system components)


Surgery may be necessary to treat or manage complications from infections. Gene therapy is also a potential treatment option for specific types of primary immunodeficiencies. 


At Premier Allergy TX, we combine expert medical care with a patient-first approach to ensure the best outcomes for every individual.

Immunodeficiency FAQs

  • How do I know if I have primary or secondary immunodeficiency?

    If you have a primary immunodeficiency disease, that means you were born with it—most likely because you inherited it from one or both of your parents. 


    Secondary immunodeficiency can develop later in life, often due to another condition, some medications, or treatments. Common causes of secondary immunodeficiency include malnutrition, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and immunosuppressive treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy. 


    If you experience signs of immunodeficiency, especially if you have a family history of the disease, consult a specialist who can conduct an immunodeficiency test and provide the appropriate treatment.

  • Is immunodeficiency curable?

    Immunodeficiencies aren’t fully curable, but most can be effectively managed with modern treatments. This condition comes in many different types, so immunodeficiency treatment can vary from person to person. Your allergist or immunologist can evaluate your symptoms, conduct thorough testing, and provide a treatment plan tailored to your exact case. With expert help, many people with immunodeficiency disorders live normal and active lives.

  • Can stress cause an immunodeficiency?

    Stress can weaken your immune system, but not in a direct way like most causes of immunodeficiency (genetics or diseases) can. Chronic stress often suppresses immune function, leaving you more susceptible to infections. However, this is temporary or reversible, unlike primary immunodeficiency diseases.

  • Can vaccines help with immunodeficiency?

    Yes, vaccines can help, but it depends on your specific disorder. Some vaccines can be risky for immunocompromised patients, but are generally safe for others. Always consult your doctor if you want to get vaccinated, so they can assess your medical history and health status and recommend the safest options for you.

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Don’t let immunodeficiency hold you back.   Premier Allergy TX specializes in diagnosing and treating immunodeficiency disorders, empowering you to prevent infections and enjoy a healthier and more fulfilling life. Schedule your consultation today to get the care you need.

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