Primary Immune Deficiency: How IVIG Replaces What's Missing
Primary immune deficiencies leave the body without enough antibodies to fight infection. Regular IVIG infusions are often a lifelong, life-changing treatment.
What is primary immune deficiency?
Primary immune deficiency (PID) refers to a group of over 400 different genetic conditions in which part of the immune system doesn't develop or function correctly from birth, most commonly affecting the body's ability to produce antibodies. It can be diagnosed in childhood or, in milder forms, not recognized until adulthood.
The hallmark of PID is frequent, unusually severe, or hard-to-treat infections, particularly of the sinuses, lungs, and ears, that keep recurring despite treatment.
How infusion therapy helps
For antibody-deficiency forms of PID, IVIG replaces the missing antibodies directly, giving the immune system what it needs to fight infections that it otherwise couldn't handle on its own.
This is typically a long-term or lifelong therapy, given every three to four weeks, and for most patients it dramatically reduces how often they get sick and how severe those illnesses are.
Living with a primary immune deficiency?
Consistent IVIG therapy can be life-changing. Our physician-led team makes ongoing treatment straightforward.
Call (551) 336-5580This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. Treatment decisions should always be made with your physician based on your individual diagnosis and health history.