Recurrent infections? - Immune Disorders Message Board

mattsmom105 · 05-28-2008, 07:31 AM

Hi. My son is 7. He has had recurrent croup and herpes sores on his face since he was 2. And now, for the past 2 years he gets recurrent molloscum, and fungal infections. What is with the fungal infections? It started with scaling of the skin on fingers and toes, that took a long time to go away. Then its red rash looking around his neck, under his armpits, in the creases of his legs and arms. Doctor treats these individually, i see the bigger picture ... Is there some kind of auto-immune test or how do you know your immune system is low and what can you do about it? He has bipolar and has been on depakote since Sep.. Its gotten worse since then, I thought that could have aggravated it, but what Ive looked up it actually HELPS the immune system.. Any ideas? My poor baby. Oh, and get this... he is in the hospital and herpes sores are growing and spreading, and the doctor gives him CHAPSTICK ! MOMMA MIA !

Michele

rudiraven · 05-28-2008, 08:49 AM

Have they tested your son for PI (Primary Immunodefiency)? I'm also surprised they diagnosed him with bipolar at such a young age. God bless.

jen9803 · 06-05-2008, 07:41 PM

My daughter is 4.5 and has recurrent pulmonary infections, random fevers, and is currently on prophylactic antibiotics. We initially did what seems to be a standard immune panel: CBC w/diff, IgG and subclasses, IgE, IgA and IgM. We also checked titers to a few things and something to do with mitogen, and C3 and C4. Those came back fine, but we are still looking and get into testing for more "exotic" primary immune deficiency issues. We also know she has an autoimmune hyperthyroid condition (Graves). All of her docs are convinced there is an immune issue and we haven't even really stressed the autoimmune.

You are certainly right for thinking that there is more to this than each individual infection. Ask for a referral to a clinical immunologist. Or since you mention he is inpatient, demand a consult while you are there.

Good luck, and don't back down.