Low Immune System

[Tiredpup]

I was taking Rituxan infusions for my RA. It has lowered my IGA, IGG and IGM. They are antibodies called immunoglobulins in your body.

The antibodies are proteins that your immune cells make to fight off bacteria, viruses, etc. The immunoglobulin test can show whether there's a problem with your immune system. But usually when you are low you get sick a lot.

Of course I have stopped all RA treatment and I am getting monthly infusions to try to raise the IGG. There is nothing they can do for the IGA and IGM. I have had 7 infusions and will have 6 more. We will see if the IGA and IGM will rise. If not then I will have to live with Low Immunity.

Has anyone else experienced this and if so, what have you done for this condition? What has your doctor recommended for you?

[nanapat61]

Aw, I hope the infusions help you. My Rheumy wants to 'try' Rituxan for me and did a 'pooled immunoglobulin' blood test before Christmas - I've not had the result yet but I suppose if it's not normal then I can't start the Rituxan. All best wishes to you.

[Seaberry]

same happened to be. Have zero BCells which make all that stuff. Why only 6 more? I get monthly IGG IV. Keeps me well. Continually getting immunity from others. Never get sick with colds, flu, etc where I was constantly ill before. In hospital a couple times a year. Have been doing for 10 years. Greatly improved my life. I get Actemra IV for my RA at same time.

Did not even get Covid. With low IGM you probably do not get immunity to vaccines like pneumonia, flu etc. by getting IGG regularly I get those immunities from others plasma donations. See an immunologist.

[Tiredpup in reply to Seaberry]

I am seeing an immunologist. That is how I got the IVIG infusions. I DID get COVID. My lovely partner brought it home to me. Was extremely sick. I have been trying to figure out why you would need Actemra if your immune system is low. I thought increased inflammation is the cause of damage to RA and because we have low immune system, we would not get damage? My doctor has not explained this to me. So what precautions do you take? Do you mask up? Do the people around you mask up when they go out? Do you go on trips? If so, how do you not pick up germs, etc?

[Leics]

Yep unfortunately I had my IgG’s etc etc etc knocked out by retuximab in 2013 they have never recovered. I haven’t ever had IV immunoglobulins even though I’ve been put forward for funding for them for 3 times. I’ve been lucky I don’t have too many infections but when I do they last a lot longer and need at least two weeks antibiotics each time. I’m under an immunologist but they’re as rare as hens teeth. I failed two pneumonia jabs with little or no antibodies. I did have Covid last year and didn’t fair too badly. I take antibiotics everyday at a very low dose. I have been taking Rinvoq JAK inhibitor but I am going to have to think again as they affect my liver and red blood cells etc etc. the only thing that tends to work RA wise is steroid injections. We will see what this year brings. I hope the immunoglobulins work for you but if not you can live with very low IGg’s.