Is a 2nd opinion necessary on diagnosis of Common Hypogammaglobulinemia?
I was recently diagnosed with Common Hypogammaglobulinemia by my allergist (immunoligist). He ran some blood tests to check my immunoglobin levels, as I am currently fighting my 3rd sinus infection THIS YEAR. When it came back low he sent it for further testing. 2 of the 4 subclasses were low. He told me that means that my body does not produce the antibodies to fight bacterial infections and that I had Common Hypogammaglobulinemia. He wants to start me on Gammagard infusions. My husband wants me to get a 2nd opinion. My question is, is that really necessary since his diagnosis was based on blood tests?
Re: Is a 2nd opinion necessary on diagnosis of Common Hypogammaglobulinemia?
With results like that and the symptoms you have, I don't think a second opinion would change anything. I actually waited a few years from my initial lab results until I started IvIg. My results were repeated after that time period and my levels were the same. I just stared Ivig 3 months ago after 1 1/2 years of constant sinus/bronchial infections that were identified through microbiology cultures.
The Following User Says Thank You to bloodgirl For This Useful Post: supersickntired (12-26-2011)
Re: Is a 2nd opinion necessary on diagnosis of Common Hypogammaglobulinemia?
Quote:
Originally Posted by supersickntired
I was recently diagnosed with Common Hypogammaglobulinemia by my allergist (immunoligist). He ran some blood tests to check my immunoglobin levels, as I am currently fighting my 3rd sinus infection THIS YEAR. When it came back low he sent it for further testing. 2 of the 4 subclasses were low. He told me that means that my body does not produce the antibodies to fight bacterial infections and that I had Common Hypogammaglobulinemia. He wants to start me on Gammagard infusions. My husband wants me to get a 2nd opinion. My question is, is that really necessary since his diagnosis was based on blood tests?
There is Common Variable Immune Deficiency and there is Hypogammaglobulinemia. Hypo is typically a reduction in ALL gamma globulins. CVID is a reduction in IgG and IgA and/or IgM. I would get a 2nd opinion from a qualified immunologist (not allergist). Typically people with these diseases are sick like 20 times a year, not only 3 (I am not trying to lessen the severity of it for you). IVIG is for life so I would definitely get a 2nd opinion and at least a correct name. Good luck.
The Following User Says Thank You to cvidmama For This Useful Post: supersickntired (12-27-2011)
