Question 1

What is immunodeficiency diseases?

Accepted Answer

Immunodeficiency diseases are conditions where the immune system cannot fight infections effectively due to missing or malfunctioning immune components. They are caused by genetic mutations (primary immunodeficiency) or acquired factors like HIV infection, medications, or cancer treatments that damage immune cells. The IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence test is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures essential antibodies needed to fight infections.

Question 2

What causes immunodeficiency diseases?

Accepted Answer

Immunodeficiency diseases are caused by genetic mutations that affect immune system development (primary immunodeficiency) or acquired factors that damage immune function (secondary immunodeficiency). Primary causes include mutations in genes controlling B cells, T cells, or antibody production, such as mutations in the BTK gene causing X-linked agammaglobulinemia or CVID-related genetic defects. Secondary causes include HIV infection destroying CD4 T cells, chemotherapy or immunosuppressive medications reducing white blood cell production, malnutrition depleting essential nutrients for immune function, and chronic diseases like diabetes or kidney disease weakening immune responses.

Question 3

What is the best test for immunodeficiency diseases?

Accepted Answer

The IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence test is the most important test for immunodeficiency diseases because it measures the levels of two critical antibodies your body needs to fight bacterial and viral infections. Low IgG levels can reveal common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), selective IgG subclass deficiency, or other serious conditions where your body cannot produce adequate protective antibodies. The Respiratory Allergy Profile measuring IgE levels is essential for identifying hyper-IgE syndrome and immune disorders with elevated allergic responses. For comprehensive evaluation, the Phoma betae IgG test assesses your immune system's ability to respond to fungal infections, revealing whether your body can mount appropriate antibody responses to specific pathogens.

Question 4

When should I get tested for immunodeficiency diseases?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience frequent infections that keep coming back, such as sinus infections, pneumonia, ear infections, or skin infections more than four times per year. Get tested if you have infections that are unusually severe, last longer than normal, or do not respond well to standard antibiotics. You should also consider testing if you have a family history of immunodeficiency diseases, chronic diarrhea with weight loss, or recurrent thrush or yeast infections. Children who fail to grow normally or have frequent hospitalizations for infections should be tested promptly.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of immunodeficiency diseases?

Accepted Answer

The primary symptoms of immunodeficiency diseases include frequent bacterial infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections that recur every few months. You might notice skin infections, abscesses, or wounds that heal slowly or become infected easily. Other common symptoms include chronic diarrhea, oral thrush or yeast infections, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Children with immunodeficiency often experience failure to thrive, delayed growth, and may need intravenous antibiotics frequently. Some people develop autoimmune complications where the immune system attacks their own organs, causing inflammation in the joints, skin, or digestive system.

Question 6

Who is at risk for immunodeficiency diseases?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of primary immunodeficiency are at highest risk, as many forms are inherited through genetic mutations passed from parents to children. Individuals taking immunosuppressive medications for organ transplants, autoimmune diseases, or cancer treatment have increased risk of secondary immunodeficiency. People with HIV infection, chronic diseases like diabetes or kidney disease, elderly individuals with age-related immune decline, and those with malnutrition or vitamin deficiencies face elevated risk. Infants and young children are at risk for primary immunodeficiency, which often becomes apparent when they experience unusually frequent or severe infections during the first years of life.

Question 7

What happens if immunodeficiency diseases are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated immunodeficiency diseases lead to recurrent severe infections that can cause permanent organ damage, particularly to the lungs from repeated pneumonia and bronchitis. These infections can become life-threatening, with bacteria entering the bloodstream causing sepsis or meningitis. Chronic infections cause progressive lung disease with scarring and bronchiectasis, reducing breathing capacity over time. Without treatment, people develop complications including autoimmune disorders where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, increased cancer risk particularly lymphomas, chronic inflammation causing organ damage, and significantly shortened lifespan. Children with untreated primary immunodeficiency often experience developmental delays and failure to thrive.

Question 8

Can immunodeficiency diseases be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are the primary method for diagnosing immunodeficiency diseases and measuring how well your immune system functions. The IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence test directly measures antibody levels, revealing whether your body produces adequate immunoglobulins to fight infections. Blood tests also measure white blood cell counts, T cell and B cell numbers, and your immune system's ability to respond to vaccines or specific pathogens. Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential identifies abnormal white blood cell patterns, while complement protein tests assess another critical immune defense system. These blood tests provide clear evidence of immune system dysfunction and help identify the specific type of immunodeficiency.

Question 9

How is immunodeficiency treated?

Accepted Answer

Immunodeficiency treatment depends on the specific type and severity of the condition. Immunoglobulin replacement therapy is the cornerstone treatment for antibody deficiencies, providing regular infusions of protective antibodies from donated blood to prevent infections. Prophylactic antibiotics taken daily or at the first sign of infection help prevent bacterial infections from becoming severe. For severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), stem cell or bone marrow transplantation can rebuild a functioning immune system. Other treatments include interferon therapy for certain viral infections, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) to boost white blood cell production, and aggressive treatment of infections with appropriate antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals.

Question 10

How can I prevent complications from immunodeficiency diseases?

Accepted Answer

Preventing complications requires vigilant infection prevention practices including frequent handwashing, avoiding crowds during cold and flu season, and staying away from people with active infections. Get all recommended vaccinations, though live vaccines may be contraindicated for some immunodeficiency types. Maintain excellent dental hygiene to prevent oral infections, practice safe food handling to avoid foodborne illnesses, and address any cuts or wounds immediately with proper cleaning and monitoring. Regular follow-up with an immunologist ensures appropriate monitoring of antibody levels and early detection of infections. Consider prophylactic antibiotics if recommended by your doctor, maintain a healthy diet rich in nutrients supporting immune function, and avoid smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.

Question 11

What can I do at home to support my immune system with immunodeficiency?

Accepted Answer

While home remedies cannot replace medical treatment for immunodeficiency, you can support overall health by maintaining a nutrient-rich diet with adequate protein, vitamins C, D, and zinc to provide building blocks for immune function. Get sufficient sleep of 7-9 hours nightly, as sleep deprivation further weakens immune responses. Practice stress reduction through meditation, yoga, or gentle exercise, since chronic stress impairs immune function. Stay well-hydrated, avoid raw or undercooked foods that carry infection risk, and maintain a clean home environment by regularly disinfecting high-touch surfaces. However, always follow your doctor's prescribed treatment plan including immunoglobulin therapy or prophylactic antibiotics, as these home measures alone cannot compensate for deficient antibody production or compromised immune cells.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Immunodeficiency Diseases Blood Test

What is Immunodeficiency diseases?

What causes immunodeficiency diseases?

What is the best test for immunodeficiency diseases?

When should I get tested for immunodeficiency diseases?

References

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