immune disorders
Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD)
Treatment of CGD
Antibiotics and antifungal drugs to prevent and treat infections Interferon gamma Transfusions of granulocytes Stem cell transplantation Antibiotics, usuallytrimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, are given regularly and indefinitely to prevent infection. Antifungal drugs (such asitraconazole) are usually also given regularly to help prevent fungal infections. Interferon gamma (a drug that modifies the immune system), injected 3 times a week, can reduce the number and severity of infections. Transfusions of granulocytes can be lifesaving when the other usual treatments have been ineffective. Granulocytes are a type of white blood cell that includes some phagocytes. Stem Cell Transplantation has cured some people with chronic granulomatous disease. Close relatives who have a similar tissue and blood types are the best donors. If they are willing to donate, they can be tested to determine whether their tissue and blood types are compatible with those of the affected person. Before transplantation, the person is given drugs to suppress the immune system ( 