Case study:
Malou, a teacher, presents to the immunology clinic with a history of recurrent and severe infections since childhood. Over the past few years, her infections have become more frequent and prolonged, leading to increased absenteeism from work and a significant decline in her overall quality of life.
Medical History:
Malou experienced frequent upper respiratory tract infections, ear infections, and sinusitis as a child.
During her teenage years, she was diagnosed with bronchitis on multiple occasions.
In her early twenties, she developed a severe case of pneumonia that required hospitalization.
She has a history of multiple skin infections, including cellulitis.
Sarah reports a few episodes of meningitis-like symptoms, but these were not confirmed through lumbar punctures.
Family History: No significant family history of immune disorders or other relevant medical conditions exists.
Social History: Malou is a non-smoker and consumes alcohol occasionally. She lives with her partner and has no history of substance abuse.
Physical Examination:
General appearance: Malou appears fatigued.
Skin: Evidence of healing skin lesions present.
Respiratory system: Slight wheezing and rhonchi upon auscultation.
Diagnostic Workup:
Complete Blood Count (CBC): Within normal limits.
Immunoglobulin Levels:
IgG: Significantly reduced levels.
Lymphocyte Subsets:
CD19 (B cells): Significantly reduced levels.
Flow Cytometry: Abnormal B cell maturation pattern.
Chest X-ray: Shows evidence of bronchiectasis.
Sinus X-ray/CT: Sinus opacification and chronic inflammation.
Diagnosis: Based on the clinical presentation, lab results, and diagnostic workup, Malou is diagnosed with Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID), a primary immunodeficiency disorder characterized by defective antibody production, leading to recurrent and severe infections.
Discuss Malou's previous medical history across her lifetime as it relates to the diagnosis of Common Variable Immune Deficiency.
Describe the pathophysiology of CVID. Include a detailed discussion of the specific immunoglobulins that are used to make a diagnosis of CVID. How do they impact the patient's recurrent infections?
Provide a treatment plan for Malou. Include the primary goal for managing the disease and the plan's components to improve Malou's quality of life. Be sure also to include how immunoglobulin replacement therapy and other interventions, including pharmacotherapeutics, will improve her condition. What potential side effects or adverse effects are possible with medication treatment? How will you include Malou's partner & family in the plan? What are the implications of her workplace on her diagnosis & plan? What psychosocial concerns may need to be addressed?
What potential complications can arise from CVID, and how might they impact the patient's overall health? What are the specific ways these complications can be avoided or managed?
Discuss Malou's prognosis and any education you would provide to the patient. Consider any safety considerations to improve Malou's quality of life. Need Assignment Help?
Please include scholarly sources.