Question 1

What is Primary Immunodeficiencies?

Accepted Answer

Primary immunodeficiencies are rare genetic disorders that impair the immune system's ability to fight infections and diseases. They are caused by inherited genetic mutations that affect the production or function of immune cells, particularly lymphocytes like CD4 and CD8 cells. The Lymphocyte Subset Panel 4 (CD4:CD8 Ratio Profile) is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures the critical balance of immune cells needed to coordinate proper immune responses.

Question 2

What causes primary immunodeficiencies?

Accepted Answer

Primary immunodeficiencies are caused by inherited genetic mutations that affect how your immune system develops and functions. These genetic defects disrupt the production, maturation, or function of immune cells like B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, natural killer cells, or phagocytes. The mutations are typically present from birth and passed down through families, though symptoms may not appear until childhood or even adulthood depending on the severity of the defect.

Question 3

What is the best test for primary immunodeficiencies?

Accepted Answer

The Lymphocyte Subset Panel 4 (CD4:CD8 Ratio Profile) is the most important test for primary immunodeficiencies because it measures the critical balance between CD4 helper T cells and CD8 cytotoxic T cells. In primary immunodeficiencies, this ratio is often decreased due to reduced CD4 cell production, which is essential for coordinating your immune response against infections. This test provides detailed information about your immune cell populations and helps doctors understand whether your immune system is functioning properly, making it invaluable for diagnosis and monitoring treatment effectiveness.

Question 4

When should I get tested for primary immunodeficiencies?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience frequent infections that keep coming back, such as ear infections, pneumonia, or sinus infections more than four times per year. Consider testing if you have severe infections that require hospitalization or intravenous antibiotics, infections that do not respond well to standard treatments, or if you have a family history of primary immunodeficiency disorders. Early testing is crucial if you notice unusual infections caused by organisms that typically do not make healthy people sick.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of primary immunodeficiencies?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of primary immunodeficiencies include recurrent respiratory infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, or sinus infections that occur frequently throughout the year. You might experience chronic diarrhea, poor growth in children, skin infections or abscesses, frequent thrush or yeast infections, and infections that are unusually severe or difficult to treat. Other signs include swollen lymph nodes, enlarged spleen, autoimmune disorders where your body attacks its own tissues, and delayed wound healing. Some people also experience frequent fevers without an obvious cause.

Question 6

Who is at risk for primary immunodeficiencies?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of primary immunodeficiency disorders are at highest risk since these conditions are inherited through genetic mutations. Males are more frequently affected by certain types because some immunodeficiencies are X-linked genetic disorders. Infants and young children are often diagnosed first when recurrent infections become apparent, though some milder forms may not be recognized until adolescence or adulthood. Anyone with unexplained recurrent infections, especially if they have relatives with similar health problems or early deaths from infections, should be evaluated for possible primary immunodeficiency.

Question 7

What happens if primary immunodeficiencies are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated primary immunodeficiencies can lead to severe, life-threatening complications including chronic lung disease from repeated respiratory infections, permanent organ damage to the lungs, liver, or digestive system, and increased risk of certain cancers like lymphoma. You may develop widespread infections that spread through your bloodstream (sepsis), experience failure to thrive with poor growth and development in children, and suffer from chronic inflammation that damages tissues throughout your body. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent these serious complications and maintain quality of life.

Question 8

Can primary immunodeficiencies be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Primary immunodeficiencies can be evaluated with specialized blood tests that measure different components of your immune system. The Lymphocyte Subset Panel measures the types and quantities of white blood cells, including CD4 and CD8 T cells, while immunoglobulin tests check antibody levels in your blood. Complete blood counts assess overall white blood cell numbers, and specific antibody response tests evaluate how well your immune system responds to vaccines. While blood tests provide crucial information, diagnosis typically requires combining test results with your clinical symptoms, infection history, and sometimes genetic testing to confirm specific mutations.

Question 9

How are primary immunodeficiencies treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for primary immunodeficiencies focuses on preventing infections and replacing missing immune components. Immunoglobulin replacement therapy provides antibodies through regular infusions to help fight infections, while prophylactic antibiotics prevent bacterial infections before they start. Some patients benefit from stem cell or bone marrow transplants that can cure certain types of immunodeficiencies by replacing the defective immune system. Gene therapy is emerging as a treatment option for specific genetic defects. Treatment also includes prompt aggressive treatment of infections when they occur and regular monitoring of immune function.

Question 10

How can I prevent complications from primary immunodeficiencies?

Accepted Answer

Preventing complications requires avoiding exposure to infections by practicing excellent hand hygiene, staying away from sick people, and avoiding crowded places during flu season. Keep up with recommended vaccinations, though live vaccines may be contraindicated in some immunodeficiencies, so consult your immunologist. Maintain good nutrition to support overall health, avoid raw or undercooked foods that carry infection risk, and seek medical attention promptly at the first sign of infection. Regular follow-up appointments with your immunologist for monitoring and preventive treatments like immunoglobulin infusions are essential for managing the condition effectively.

Question 11

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

Accepted Answer

At home, focus on creating a clean environment by regularly disinfecting high-touch surfaces, avoiding mold and dampness, and using air purifiers to reduce airborne pathogens. Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support overall health, though diet cannot cure the underlying genetic defect. Get adequate sleep, manage stress through relaxation techniques, and stay physically active within your limitations. Keep detailed records of infections, symptoms, and treatments to share with your healthcare team. Ensure family members and close contacts practice good hygiene and stay current with their vaccinations to protect you from infections.

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.

Primary Immunodeficiency Blood Test

What is Primary Immunodeficiencies?

What causes primary immunodeficiencies?

What is the best test for primary immunodeficiencies?

When should I get tested for primary immunodeficiencies?

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