Selective IgG Deficiency Blood Test

What is Selective IgG Deficiency?

Selective IgG deficiency is a primary immunodeficiency disorder characterized by significantly reduced levels of immunoglobulin G antibodies while other immunoglobulin classes remain normal. It is caused by impaired B-cell production or function that specifically affects IgG antibody synthesis, leading to inadequate immune protection against bacterial and viral infections. The IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence test is the most important test for diagnosis because it precisely measures all immunoglobulin classes to confirm low IgG levels.

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What causes Selective IgG Deficiency?

Selective IgG deficiency is caused by impaired B-cell function that specifically disrupts the production of immunoglobulin G antibodies. B-cells are specialized white blood cells responsible for creating antibodies, and when they fail to produce adequate IgG, your immune system cannot effectively fight bacterial and viral infections. This deficiency can be inherited genetically or develop due to underlying immune system disorders, and it results in recurrent respiratory tract infections, sinusitis, and other bacterial infections that are difficult to clear.

What is the best test for Selective IgG Deficiency?

The IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence test is the most important test for Selective IgG Deficiency because it measures all major immunoglobulin classes in your blood, including IgG, IgA, and IgM. This comprehensive panel allows healthcare providers to confirm that your IgG levels are significantly below the normal range (typically 700-1600 mg/dL in adults) while verifying that other antibody types remain normal, which is the defining characteristic of selective IgG deficiency. The test provides precise quantification of antibody levels, enabling your doctor to assess the severity of your immune deficiency and develop an appropriate treatment plan that may include immunoglobulin replacement therapy or prophylactic antibiotics.

When should I get tested for Selective IgG Deficiency?

You should get tested if you experience recurrent respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or sinus infections that keep coming back despite treatment. Testing is especially important if you have frequent bacterial infections that are difficult to clear, persistent ear infections, or if you need antibiotics more than 3-4 times per year. You should also consider testing if you have a family history of immune deficiencies or if your doctor has mentioned concerns about your immune system function after repeated infections.

What are the symptoms of Selective IgG Deficiency?
The primary symptoms of selective IgG deficiency include recurrent respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, and ear infections. You might notice that you catch bacterial infections more frequently than others and that these infections take longer to resolve or keep returning shortly after treatment ends. Other symptoms can include chronic cough, frequent need for antibiotics, fatigue from persistent infections, and in some cases, gastrointestinal infections or skin infections that recur repeatedly.
Who is at risk for Selective IgG Deficiency?
Individuals with a family history of primary immunodeficiency disorders are at higher risk for selective IgG deficiency, as genetic factors play a significant role. Children and adults who experience unusually frequent bacterial infections despite normal hygiene and health practices should be evaluated for this condition. People with other autoimmune conditions, those taking certain immunosuppressive medications, and individuals with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or multiple myeloma may develop secondary IgG deficiency, though this differs from the primary selective form.
What happens if Selective IgG Deficiency is left untreated?
If left untreated, selective IgG deficiency can lead to chronic and recurrent infections that progressively damage your lungs and respiratory system, potentially causing bronchiectasis, which is permanent scarring and widening of the airways. Repeated bacterial infections can result in chronic sinusitis, hearing loss from recurrent ear infections, and decreased lung function over time. The condition may also lead to frequent hospitalizations for severe infections, reduced quality of life due to persistent illness, and in rare cases, life-threatening infections that can develop complications such as sepsis or meningitis.
Can Selective IgG Deficiency be diagnosed with a blood test?
Yes, selective IgG deficiency is definitively diagnosed with a blood test that measures immunoglobulin levels. The blood test specifically quantifies IgG, IgA, and IgM antibodies to determine if IgG levels are significantly below the normal range while other immunoglobulin classes remain within normal limits. This blood work provides the essential diagnostic information needed to confirm the condition, assess its severity, and differentiate it from other types of immunodeficiency disorders that may require different treatment approaches.
How is Selective IgG Deficiency treated?
Treatment for selective IgG deficiency typically involves prophylactic antibiotics to prevent recurrent bacterial infections, especially during high-risk periods or seasons. For more severe cases with very low IgG levels and frequent serious infections, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) replacement therapy may be administered to supplement your antibody levels and provide immune protection. Your healthcare provider may also recommend prompt treatment of infections when they occur, vaccinations to prevent preventable diseases, and lifestyle modifications to reduce infection risk, such as avoiding sick individuals and practicing good hand hygiene.
How can I prevent complications from Selective IgG Deficiency?
Preventing complications involves working closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your immune function through regular blood tests and maintaining up-to-date vaccinations, though live vaccines may need special consideration. Practice excellent hand hygiene, avoid close contact with people who have active infections, and seek prompt medical attention at the first sign of infection before it becomes severe. Stay on prescribed preventive antibiotics if recommended, maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep and nutrition to support your immune system, and consider wearing a mask in crowded places during flu season or when respiratory infections are prevalent.
What can I do at home to support my immune system with Selective IgG Deficiency?
At home, focus on maintaining a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support immune function, including vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and protein. Get adequate sleep of 7-9 hours per night, as sleep is crucial for immune system repair and function. Stay well-hydrated, manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation, and exercise moderately to support overall health without overtaxing your immune system. Keep your living environment clean, use a humidifier to prevent dry airways that are more susceptible to infection, and avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke, as this damages respiratory defenses and increases infection risk.
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IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence
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What's included
Fast & easy, results by email & SMS
No need to visit a doctor
Private & confidential
No insurance needed
Results explained
No extra fees paid at the lab

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