- There are two types of lymphocytes (immune system cells). Type T lymphocytes destroy invading organisms by attacking them directly. Type B lymphocytes produce antibodies which tag invading organisms, signaling the T lymphocytes and other immune system cells to destroy the organisms.
- Primary hypogammaglobulinemia is the result of direct destruction of the B lymphocytes. This may happen from chemotherapy for cancer, an infection which destroys the bone marrow (where the B lymphocytes are created), or a genetic condition where antibodies created are not functional or not produced.
- Secondary hypogammaglobulinemia is the result of a disease which prevents the production or function of antibodies indirectly. This may be an overwhelming infection which exhausts the quantity of available antibodies.
- Newborns will sometimes experience low antibodies in their bodies because their immune system is not mature enough to produce antibodies. As a result, newborns rely on antibodies passed to them by their mother while in the womb or through their diet.
- Before being treated with medications which may lower the antibodies in the body, the physician should discuss the risks and benefits of such a therapy. Genetic causes of hypogammaglobulinemia are not preventable. However, there are plenty of treatments to replace or boost antibody levels.
previous post
next post