AGAMMAGLOBULINEMIA

Agammaglobulinemia is an inherited disorder in which a person has very low levels of protective immune system proteins called immunoglobulins. Immunoglobulins are a type of antibody. Low levels of these antibodies make you more likely to get infections.

ABOUT DISEASE

This is a rare disorder that mainly affects males. It is caused by a gene defect that blocks the growth of normal, mature immune cells called B lymphocytes.

As a result, the body makes very little (if any) immunoglobulins. Immunoglobulins play a major role in the immune response, which protects against illness and infection.

People with this disorder develop infections again and again. Common infections include ones that are due to bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae, pneumococci (Streptococcus pneumoniae), and staphylococci. Common sites of infection include:

Gastrointestinal tract
Joints
Lungs
Skin
Upper respiratory tract

Agammaglobulinemia is inherited, which means other people in your family may have the condition.

SYMPTOMS

+ Bronchitis (airway infection)
+ Otitis media (middle ear infection)
+ Skin infections

+ Chronic diarrhea
+ Pneumonia (lung infection)
+ Upper respiratory tract infections

+ Conjunctivitis (eye infection)
+ Sinusitis (sinus infection)

Other symptoms include:

+ Bronchiectasis (a disease in which the small air sacs in the lungs become damaged and enlarged)
+ Asthma without a known cause

YOUR POINT OF CONTACT

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SPECIALISTS

+ Primary Care Physician
+ Doctors proficient in Primary Immunodeficiency

BLOOD TESTS

+ Flow cytometry to measure circulating B lymphocytes
+ Immunoelectrophoresis – serum
+ Quantitative immunoglobulins – IgG, IgA, IgM (usually measured by nephelometry)

MEDICATIONS

Treatment involves taking steps to reduce the number and severity of infections. Antibiotics are often needed to treat bacterial infections.

Immunoglobulins are given through a vein or by injection to boost the immune system.

A bone marrow transplant may be considered.

METHODS OF HEALING

Coming Soon…

AUTOIMMUNE RESOURCES

Here are some great websites, authors, podcasts and other resources to help you navigate your Autoimmune Disease.

Agammaglobulinemia – Immune Deficiency Foundation

Agammaglobulinemia – NORD

ALL RESOURCES

AUTOIMMUNE STORIES

These are the women that have shared their autoimmune journey with us. Please take a moment to read some of their brave, honest and revealing stories about their diagnosis, successes, hardships and their lives.