Constant infections

[forbes84]

Have had itp for 2 years now and have constantly got 2 or 3 infections at a time this is making me fatigued and feel as though I'm running on half a tank all the time so Im on antibiotics all the time.I've now been informed that all of these infections could be caused by a candida overgrowth my doctor doesn't agree but there must be a reason for all of this. Does anyone have any information on any of this?

[AnthonyHeard Administrator ITP Support Association]

Hello forbes84, ITP does have the unfortunate side effect of tiredness/fatigue which has now been recognised officially by the medical profession. It also leaves us open to more colds/flu/infections/viruses and of course this is made even worse if we take Prednisolone or any other steroid or Rituximab or Azathioprine as they are all immune system suppressants. I contracted shinles in December 2009 as my immune systme had been suppressed by 3 years of steroid use on and off. It was just a pity that my specialist did not think to warn me that it might be a possible side effect.

The link to the study on Fatigue/tiredness and ITP is.....onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi...

[Hidden]

You should ask to have your immunoglobulin levels checked. The important ones are IgA, IgM and IgG. Immunoglobulins are basically antibodies and if low you will be susceptible to infections. I had mine checked almost by accident and they came back with two of the three being low and so now have a diagnosis of Primary Immune Deficiency. It is common for people with PID to also have autoimmune conditions with ITP being the most common. If the levels are low enough treatment is avaiable.

[kered]

Hello Forbes84, My immune system is suppressed with 2g/ day of MMF (Myfenax) for ITP and this year I have had two bad throat infections and took amoxillin on both occasions to avoid complications from possible bacterial chest infections. However, from previous experiences I am very careful because as a research microbial biochemist I know that clearing an infected area like the throat or mouth can provide a suitable environment for the growth or other opportunistic infections especially yeasts such as Candida which are not destroyed with antibiotics. The suggestion that there could be an overgrowth of the yeasts is very plausible,especially when the immune system is suppressed.It is an area worth bearing in mind and can be cured quickly with oral medication.

We sufferers from ITP do not always consider the less obvious secondary effects of our medications. A good GP will consider all possibilities.

Good luck, Derek