Immunoglobulins

[ks1966]

Hello. My nurse asked me to do an immunoglobulin test among others before my Rituximab infusion. The paper says igm igg and some more and then the latter B. What are they and what do they show? Thanks

[Neonkittie17]

They are standard blood tests for those on Rtx. I’ve always had them. They’re looking to see how Rtx is affecting your B cells and if Rtx is depleting them and if they are returning before you have your next infusion. They usually test them 2 weeks after your infusion(s) too to ensure Rtx is working and doing as it is meant to. Rtx is known to lower your Ig’s and they always look at igG and IgM more.

[ks1966 in reply to Neonkittie17]

Does Rituximab deplete the immunoglobulins too

[Neonkittie17 in reply to ks1966]

IgG and igM immunoglobulins (antibodies) are produced by plasma (B) cells as part of the body’s immune response against foreign pathogens. (Viruses) Rtx depletes the B cells, so the Ig’s can be lowered over repeated courses of Rtx. The rheumatologist checks these to ensure they are in the normal range for Rtx patients before they allow Rtx to go ahead, but always a good idea to keep an eye on your own blood tests too.

[ks1966 in reply to Neonkittie17]

Thank you

[Neonkittie17 in reply to ks1966]

No problem

[bpeal1 in reply to Neonkittie17]

I’ve always had them tested before Rituximab but never had them tested two weeks after. Think different health authorities must have different protocols on this.

[Neonkittie17 in reply to bpeal1]

They are supposed to check they’re depleting two weeks after either your single or duo of infusions I was told but as you say it seems to differ. My rheumy said they were following the NICE guidelines but I haven’t looked for some time to see if they’ve changed. I haven’t looked for a while.

[cathie]

When I can be bothered I ask the GP to give me a printout of my bloods. They usually include about four of the previous results for quick comparison and a wee note saying what are acceptable levels and what to be concerned about. It may differ between different practices, this is Edinburgh