Hyper IgM syndrome: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|An overview of Hyper IgM syndrome, a rare immunodeficiency disorder}} | |||
'''Hyper IgM syndrome''' is a group of rare [[primary immunodeficiency]] disorders characterized by a defect in the ability of [[B cells]] to undergo [[class switch recombination]], resulting in normal or elevated levels of [[immunoglobulin M]] (IgM) and decreased levels of other immunoglobulin isotypes such as IgG, IgA, and IgE. This condition leads to increased susceptibility to infections and other immune-related complications. | |||
== | ==Pathophysiology== | ||
Hyper IgM syndrome is caused by mutations | Hyper IgM syndrome is caused by genetic mutations that affect the interaction between [[T cells]] and B cells, which is crucial for the process of class switch recombination. The most common form of Hyper IgM syndrome is X-linked Hyper IgM syndrome, caused by mutations in the [[CD40 ligand]] (CD40L) gene located on the X chromosome. Other forms can be autosomal recessive, involving mutations in genes such as [[AID]] (activation-induced cytidine deaminase) or [[UNG]] (uracil-DNA glycosylase). | ||
== | ==Clinical Features== | ||
Patients with Hyper IgM syndrome typically present with recurrent [[bacterial infections]], particularly of the [[respiratory tract]], due to the lack of IgG. They may also experience opportunistic infections, such as those caused by [[Pneumocystis jirovecii]], a fungus that can lead to severe [[pneumonia]]. | |||
[[File:Pneumocystis.jpg|thumb|right|Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia is a common opportunistic infection in patients with Hyper IgM syndrome.]] | |||
Other clinical features may include [[autoimmune disorders]], [[neutropenia]], and an increased risk of developing certain [[malignancies]]. | |||
== | ==Diagnosis== | ||
The diagnosis of Hyper IgM syndrome is based on clinical evaluation, immunological studies, and genetic testing. Laboratory findings typically show normal or elevated levels of IgM with low levels of IgG, IgA, and IgE. Genetic testing can confirm mutations in the genes associated with the syndrome. | |||
== | ==Management== | ||
Management of Hyper IgM syndrome involves regular [[immunoglobulin replacement therapy]] to provide the missing antibodies and prevent infections. Prophylactic antibiotics may be used to prevent opportunistic infections such as Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia. In some cases, [[hematopoietic stem cell transplantation]] may be considered as a curative treatment. | |||
==Prognosis== | |||
The prognosis for individuals with Hyper IgM syndrome varies depending on the specific genetic mutation and the effectiveness of treatment. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can improve outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals. | |||
==Related pages== | |||
* [[Primary immunodeficiency]] | |||
* [[B cell]] | |||
* [[T cell]] | |||
* [[Immunoglobulin]] | |||
* [[Pneumocystis jirovecii]] | |||
[[Category:Immunodeficiency disorders]] | [[Category:Immunodeficiency disorders]] | ||
[[Category:Genetic disorders]] | [[Category:Genetic disorders]] | ||
Revision as of 11:06, 15 February 2025
An overview of Hyper IgM syndrome, a rare immunodeficiency disorder
Hyper IgM syndrome is a group of rare primary immunodeficiency disorders characterized by a defect in the ability of B cells to undergo class switch recombination, resulting in normal or elevated levels of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and decreased levels of other immunoglobulin isotypes such as IgG, IgA, and IgE. This condition leads to increased susceptibility to infections and other immune-related complications.
Pathophysiology
Hyper IgM syndrome is caused by genetic mutations that affect the interaction between T cells and B cells, which is crucial for the process of class switch recombination. The most common form of Hyper IgM syndrome is X-linked Hyper IgM syndrome, caused by mutations in the CD40 ligand (CD40L) gene located on the X chromosome. Other forms can be autosomal recessive, involving mutations in genes such as AID (activation-induced cytidine deaminase) or UNG (uracil-DNA glycosylase).
Clinical Features
Patients with Hyper IgM syndrome typically present with recurrent bacterial infections, particularly of the respiratory tract, due to the lack of IgG. They may also experience opportunistic infections, such as those caused by Pneumocystis jirovecii, a fungus that can lead to severe pneumonia.

Other clinical features may include autoimmune disorders, neutropenia, and an increased risk of developing certain malignancies.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of Hyper IgM syndrome is based on clinical evaluation, immunological studies, and genetic testing. Laboratory findings typically show normal or elevated levels of IgM with low levels of IgG, IgA, and IgE. Genetic testing can confirm mutations in the genes associated with the syndrome.
Management
Management of Hyper IgM syndrome involves regular immunoglobulin replacement therapy to provide the missing antibodies and prevent infections. Prophylactic antibiotics may be used to prevent opportunistic infections such as Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia. In some cases, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may be considered as a curative treatment.
Prognosis
The prognosis for individuals with Hyper IgM syndrome varies depending on the specific genetic mutation and the effectiveness of treatment. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can improve outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals.