Even with a good match, however, stem cell transplants don't always work. The stem cell donor - usually a parent or other close relative - must have body tissues that are a close biological match to those of the person with primary immunodeficiency.

Stem cells can be harvested through bone marrow, or they can be obtained from a placenta at birth (cord blood banking). Normal stem cells are transferred to the person with immunodeficiency, which results in a typically functioning immune system. Stem cell transplantation offers a permanent cure for several forms of life-threatening immunodeficiency.

Treatment to reinstitute the immune system Test results make it possible to prepare for treatment soon after birth, if necessary. In some cases, DNA testing is done to check for a genetic defect. Samples of the amniotic fluid, blood or cells from the tissue that will become the placenta (chorion) are tested for problems. Parents who have a child with a primary immunodeficiency disorder might want to be tested for certain immunodeficiency disorders during future pregnancies. Having numbers of certain cells in your blood that are outside of the standard range can indicate an immune system defect.īlood tests can also determine if your immune system is responding properly and producing proteins that identify and kill foreign invaders such as bacteria or viruses (antibodies). Blood tests can determine if you have typical levels of infection-fighting proteins (immunoglobulins) in your blood and measure the levels of blood cells and immune system cells. Tests used to diagnose an immune disorder include:īlood tests. Your doctor will also perform a physical examination. Your doctor will ask about your history of illnesses and whether any close relatives have an inherited immune system disorder.

Immune system indicators