Immunodeficiency disorders

Alternative names:

immunosuppression

Treatment:

Usually, the immune response is a desired effect. Even deliberate immunosuppression (in the treatment of autoimmune disorders for example) attempts to maintain a balance between suppression of parts of the immune system and the ability to fight disease and infection.

The goal of treatment for immunodeficiency disorders includes protection against (and treatment of) diseases and infections.

Avoid contact with persons who have any infection or contagious disorder. This includes avoiding contact with people who have been immunized (vaccinated) within the past two weeks.

Any illness/infection is treated aggressively. This may involve prolonged use of antimicrobials (antibiotics, antifungal medications, and so on), use of powerful antimicrobials to treat any infection, and preventive (prophylactic) treatments.

Interferon (used to treat viral infections and some types of cancer) and Zidovudine (AZT, used to treat AIDS) are two immunostimulant drugs (medications that increase the efficiency of the immune system).

Bone marrow transplant may be used to treat certain immunodeficiency conditions.

Passive immunity (administration of antibodies produced by another person or animal) may occasionally be recommended to prevent illness after exposure to a microorganism.

Expectations (prognosis):

Some immunodeficiency disorders are mild and result in occasional illness. Others are severe and may be fatal. Immunosuppression that results from medications is often reversible once the medication is stopped.

Complications:

• disease development
• frequent or persistent illness
• opportunistic infections
• increased risk for certain cancers/tumors

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with the health care provider if illness develops or if symptoms of any disorder associated with disrupted immune system develop (see the specific disorder).