Immunoglobulin level-- for Darla

[Guest guest]

It is important to watch immunoglobulin levels. Ironically, Evan was

tested at 16 months for IgG, IgA, and IgM because he didn't seem to

fight off infections well (no one suggested mito until 6 1/2 years

later). The age adjusted ranges for 1 year olds are IgA (14.0-106.0),

IgM (41 - 164), and IgG (345 - 1213). Porrah's IgM is her biggest

concern. IgM are the " first responders " when there is a " new " exposure

to a bug. Have you ever tested for CD4, CD8, or B-cells? Evan has low

early B-cells which has contributed to his bouts with giardia. Here is

some very basic info on Immunoglobin types--

.. Immunoglobulin types

- IgA: Admiral; the navy, cruising mucosal (wet) surfaces as first line

of defense. In tears, saliva, respiratory secretions, GI tract. \

- Low IgA predisposes someone to autoimmune diseases and GI infections

(rotavirus, giardia, etc.)

Immunoglobulin – IgA

- IgA deficiency: <10; low: 10-normal range

- By age 5, about half of low values normalize in typical children.

Immunoglobulin – IgM

- IgM: Marines; small but rapidly deployed force who will hold things at

bay until the main troops arrive.

Immunoglobulin – IgG

- IgG: General; the army – large force, takes longer to muster but once

there, remains a long time to ensure control; if called for a second

encounter with the same bug, much bigger response. Composed of 4

subclasses. (IgG subclasses may be low if IgG is normal)

Treatment: Low IgG

- IVIG 400 mg/kg q 4 weeks as replacement dose.