Immune Deficiency

An immune deficiency is when your immune system cannot respond appropriately to infections such as virus and bacteria. This can occur over time naturally, or can be a result of another underlying condition or medication.

If you have an immune deficiency, you may notice the following:

• Recurrent sinus infections
• Recurrent pneumonia
• Recurrent skin infections
• Recurrent unusual bacterial infections that are difficult to treat.

Consult your primary care provider if you suspect that you have an immune deficiency. They should refer you to an allergist/immunologist.

In addition to asking you questions about your symptoms and lifestyle, your provider may use a variety of tools to diagnose and confirm if you have an allergy to dust mites:

• Physical examination
• Blood testing

If an immune deficiency is confirmed, the treatment may include:

• Antibiotics
• Replacement therapy called IVIg or SCIg.

Sometimes this develops naturally, so there is no way to prevent it. Certain medications may cause this, so always discuss possible side effects of medications with your provider.