Hyper IgM Syndrome - General Discussion

SYMPTOMS & TREATMENTS

Hyper-IgM Syndrome (HIM) is a rare genetic (primary) immunodeficiency disorder that is typically inherited as an X-linked recessive genetic trait. Symptoms and physical findings associated with the disorder usually become apparent in the first or second year of life. Hyper-IgM Syndrome may be characterized by recurrent pus-producing (pyogenic) bacterial infections of the upper and lower respiratory tract including the sinuses (sinusitis) and/or the lungs (pneumonitis or pneumonia); the middle ear (otitis media); the membrane that lines the eyelids and the white portions (sclera) of the eyes (conjunctivitis); the skin (pyoderma); and/or, in some cases, other areas. Individuals with Hyper-IgM Syndrome are also susceptible to "opportunistic" infections, i.e., infections caused by microorganisms that usually do not cause disease in individuals with fully functioning immune systems (non-immunocompromised) or widespread (systemic) overwhelming disease by microorganisms that typically cause only localized, mild infections. In individuals with Hyper-IgM Syndrome, such opportunistic infections may include those caused by Pneumocystis carinii, a microorganism that causes a form of pneumonia, or Cryptosporidium, a single-celled parasite (protozoa) that can cause infections of the intestinal tract. In addition, individuals with Hyper-IgM Syndrome are prone to certain autoimmune disorders affecting particular elements of the blood, such as neutropenia, a condition in which there is an abnormal decrease of certain white blood cells (neutrophils). Additional physical findings often associated with the disorder may include enlargement (hypertrophy) of the tonsils, enlargement of the liver and spleen (hepatosplenomegaly), chronic diarrhea and impaired absorption of nutrients by the intestinal tract (malabsorption), and/or other symptoms.

The range and severity of symptoms and physical features associated with this disorder may vary from case to case. Because approximately 70 percent of reported cases of Hyper-IgM Syndrome are inherited as an X-linked recessive genetic trait, the vast majority of affected individuals are male. However, some cases of autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant genetic inheritance have been reported. In addition, a rare acquired form of the disorder has been described in the medical literature.

This is an abstract of a report from the National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. (NORD). A copy of the complete report can be obtained for a small fee by visiting the NORD website. The complete report contains additional information including symptoms, causes, affected population, related disorders, standard and investigational treatments (if available), and references from medical literature. For a full-text version of this topic, see http://www.rarediseases.org/search/rdblist.html

The information provided in this report is not intended for diagnostic purposes. It is provided for informational purposes only. NORD recommends that affected individuals seek the advice or counsel of their own personal physicians.

It is possible that the title of this topic is not the name you selected. Please check the Synonyms listing to find the alternate name(s) and Disorder Subdivision(s) covered by this report

This disease entry is based upon medical information available through the date at the end of the topic. Since NORD's resources are limited, it is not possible to keep every entry in the Rare Disease Database completely current and accurate. Please check with the agencies listed in the Resources section for the most current information about this disorder.

For additional information and assistance about rare disorders, please contact the National Organization for Rare Disorders at P.O. Box 1968, Danbury, CT 06813-1968; phone (203) 744-0100; web site www.rarediseases.org or email orphan@rarediseases.org

Last Updated: 4/16/2008
Copyright 1997, 1998, 2002National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc.

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