X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome is an immunodeficiency syndrome that is genetic. It is an extremely rare condition that is caused by a gene that is defective. X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome is a condition that mostly affects men, but the gene is often inherited from their mothers. Females are mostly the carriers of X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome. Symptoms of this condition usually show up within the first year of life. X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome is a type of opportunistic bacterial infection that can cause frequent infections
This condition is one that most people will struggle with their entire lives. It does not shorten the lifespan unless the patient does not seek proper medical care to treat infections. Male babies should begin treatment as soon as possible due to the fact that this condition has been the cause of death for many infants, even before birth.
Symptoms And Problems Caused By X-Linked Hyper-IgM Syndrome
- Pneumonia. Over eighty percent of those with X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome end up getting pneumonia many times. The disease causes any infection to become a very serious problem very quickly.
- Ear And Sinus Infections. Patients who suffer from X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome often are susceptible to ear and sinus infections.
- Infections Of The Central Nervous System. The central nervous system often comes under attack by bacterial and infections when a patient is suffering from X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome. Fungal infections are also common in patients with this problem. Chronic diarrhea is another symptom of X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome.
- Oral Ulcers And Gingivitis. Oral ulcers, gingivitis, and other dental problems can also arise because of X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome. Anemia is another condition that is often linked to X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome. To treat these conditions it is recommended to use an antiseptic mouth wash rinse at least three times a day to prevent any infections. Practicing proper dental care is important when a person has been diagnosed with X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome is important to avoid future infections.
- Stomatitis is another condition that has been linked to X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome. This condition can cause inflamed oral mucosa.
- Inflammatory bowel disease and even hepatitis have been associated with X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome. Many other conditions have been found to have ties to X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome.
Intravenous Gamma Globulin Treatment For X-Linked Hyper-IgM Syndrome
X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome can be treated before a patient is even born. As soon as this condition is diagnosed by a blood tests, doctors can start giving the patient intravenous gamma globulin on a monthly basis. This treatment allows for a patient to suffer from less bacterial infections, making this condition easier to live with. Cotrimoxazole and Granulocyte are medications that your doctor can prescribe that will also help keep infections down to a minimum. The fact of the matter is that prevention of infection is the best treatment for someone with X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome. Practicing proper hygiene and avoiding places that are crawling with germs and infections like hospitals are some of the best tips for prevention for those suffering from X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome.
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