selective IgM deficiency

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Disease Overview

Selective IgM deficiency (SIgMD) is a rare immune disorder that has been reported in association with serious infections, such as bacteria in the blood (bacteremia, also known as septicemia). Although SIgMD was first described in two children, the disorder can occur in babies, children, and adults. It is characterized by isolated absence or deficiency of immunoglobulin M (IgM), normal levels of other immunoglobulins, and recurrent infections (especially by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Hemophilus influenza). The cause is still unclear. The diagnosis includes isolated deficiency ofIgM in the blood and no other immunodeficiency or secondary cause of low IgM. Patients with SIgMD and recurrent infections are managed like other antibody defects and deficiencies. It is suggested that people with SIgMD have pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccines, people with SIgMD who have recurrent infections should have prophylactic antibiotics and immune globulin replacement.


Synonyms

  • SIgMD
  • selective IgM deficiency disease
  • selective immunoglobulin M deficiency

GARD Disease Summary

The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) has information and resources for patients, caregivers, and families that may be helpful before and after diagnosis of this condition. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

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Orphanet

Orphanet has a summary about this condition that may include information on the diagnosis, care, and treatment as well as other resources. Some of the information and resources are available in languages other than English. The summary may include medical terms, so we encourage you to share and discuss this information with your doctor. Orphanet is the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research and the Health Programme of the European Union.

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