Common Variable Immunodeficiency

Common Variable Immunodeficiency Treatment

This primary immunodeficiency disorder is characterized by reduced antibody production and/or poor antibody function.

What is CVID? Symptoms Diagnosing Testing Treatments

What is Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID)?

Common Variable Immunodeficiency is a primary immunodeficiency disorder characterized by reduced antibody production and/or poor antibody function. This leads to recurrent infections such as sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, and meningitis. CVID can be present in both children and adults. Antibodies are an important part of the immune system that helps to fight off infections, so patients with a CVID often find themselves coming down with certain types of infections frequently.

What Are Symptoms of CVID?

Antibodies are vital components of the immune system, defending against infections. Patients with defective antibodies may experience specific infections, including:

Sinusitis

Inflammation and infection in the sinus cavities often result in facial pain and congestion

Pneumonia

Lung infections can lead to symptoms like fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.

Bronchitis

Inflammation of the bronchial tubes causes coughing and breathing difficulties

Meningitis

Infection and inflammation of the fluid and membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord

Diagnosing & Treating Complement Deficiencies

Family & Medical History

A crucial diagnostic clue, an individual’s personal history of recurrent or severe infections.

A family history of primary immunodeficiencies can be a significant indicator, suggesting a genetic predisposition to immune system defects.

It prompts healthcare providers to investigate further.

Physical Exam

During a physical examination, healthcare professionals may look for signs of immunodeficiency. These findings can guide the diagnostic process. The specific types of infections a person develops can provide valuable diagnostic information.

Laboratory Tests

Laboratory tests are essential for diagnosing primary immunodeficiencies. These tests may include immune function assessments, such as measuring antibody or immunoglobulin levels, immune cell counts, and functional assays to identify specific defects in the immune system.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for CVID, but gamma globulin infusions can be administered intravenously once monthly, subcutaneously once weekly, or subcutaneously once monthly. These infusions allow us to increase the levels of functioning antibodies.

Common Variable Immunodeficiency Testing in New Jersey

How to Test for CVID

Laboratory Testing

The providers at Impact Medical will order specific laboratory tests to identify angioedema.

CVID Treatment

Common Variable Immunodeficiency Treatment in New Jersey

Gamma Globulin Infusions

Passive immunity that uses pooled antibodies from a number of donors, allowing us to increase levels of functioning antibodies.

Learn More

Speak with a CVID specialist and get started on the road to remission.

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