IVIG Infusion Therapy for Primary Immunodeficiency Disease
Primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDD) are a group of disorders characterized by defects in the immune system that result in increased susceptibility to infections. At CPS Infusion, serving the greater Atlanta area, we offer IVIG infusion therapy for primary immunodeficiency diseases.
What Are Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases?
Primary immunodeficiency diseases are typically inherited genetic disorders. They are caused by mutations in the genes responsible for the development and function of the immune system. These genetic mutations can affect various components of the immune system, including white blood cells, antibodies, and proteins. There are more than 400 different types of primary immunodeficiency diseases, each with its own specific genetic causes and symptoms.
Diagnosing Primary Immunodeficiency Disease
Diagnosing primary immunodeficiency diseases involves a review of the patient's medical history, a physical examination, immunological testing, antibody testing, genetic testing to identify genetic mutations, among others. Immunological testing may include a complete blood count (CBC) to evaluate the number and types of blood cells, immunoglobulin levels to measure the levels of antibodies (IgG, IgA, IgM) in the blood, T-cell and B-cell quantification to assess the numbers and function of these immune cells, and phagocytic function tests to evaluate the ability of white blood cells to ingest and destroy microorganisms.
Treating Primary Immunodeficiency Disease
The specific treatment plan will depend on the type of PIDD, its severity, and the individual patient's needs. But the goal is to manage symptoms, prevent infections, and improve the overall function of the immune system. Treatment options have included immunoglobulin replacement therapy, prophylactic antibiotics or antifungal medications, immunosuppressive medications, stem cell transplantation, and gene therapy. However, a promising new treatment for PIDD is IVIG infusion therapy.
How IVIG Works
IVIG is made of immunoglobulin, a protein found in human blood plasma that contain antibodies. These antibodies play a crucial role in the immune system's defense against intruder cells. Taken from plasma blood donations, IVIG is extracted, concentrated, and produced to assist individuals with compromised immune systems. It aids them in combatting infections and is utilized to address PIDD.
What to Expect?
Depending on your unique needs, your infusion may take anywhere from one to four hours and may be performed every one to four weeks. Your infusion will be supervised by our certified nurses and doctor. We recommend that you remain hydrated throughout your appointment.
Why Patients and Referring Physicians Choose Us
When you or your patient comes to one of our CPS Infusion centers, you can expect our financial coordinators to check with your insurance provider and pursue all avenues to get maximum coverage for your treatment. If you do have any expenses that you have to cover on your own, we will let you know. We will also work with you to get financial assistance if it’s available.
Patients also like the fact that they can come in for IVIG infusion therapy for primary immunodeficiency diseases in a comfortable setting, outside of a hospital.
Our referring physicians appreciate that we order all pre-infusion and monitoring tests according to their schedule so patients receive optimal care.