Blood test for immune status: indications and features. How to check immunity: symptoms and signs of poor immunity, testing and restoration of immunity

Immune status is an indicator of the state of immunity links, which must be checked in the presence of certain pathologies and conditions. The quantitative and qualitative indicator of immunity is studied by complex laboratory tests. It may be necessary to make an immunogram both for the purpose of diagnosis in the presence of a separate symptom complex, and for assessing the prognosis of a serious illness.

Immunity analysis allows you to determine functional state and quantitative parameters of immunity in a particular period of life. These figures differ in different ages and under certain conditions, including pregnancy and lactation.

Special tests can detect serious deviations, which will help to choose the right treatment. Violations in the work of immunity have several factors, therefore, the diagnosis should be comprehensive, and take into account all parameters.

Under what diseases and conditions the doctor prescribes the study:

primary immunodeficiency to confirm the diagnosis and differential diagnosis;
persistent rise in temperature bodies for a long period of time for no apparent reason;
deterioration in health against the background of long-term use of immunomodulators;
frequent colds, herpetic and viral infections.

Which doctor prescribes an immunogram

Blood test for immune status carried out by an immunologist. Any other specialist who notes violations in the work of the immune system can be sent for diagnosis. An immunogram for a child may be required at the stage of formation immune protection when the pediatrician notes manifestations typical of immunodeficiency.

What diseases

An extended immunogram to determine the immune status is needed for disorders that are conditionally divided into 3 groups. First- pathologies that require mandatory research, second- conditions that require differential diagnosis, third- diseases in which an assessment of the severity is needed.

Diseases and conditions in which an immunogram is required include:

suspicion of genetically determined (congenital) immunodeficiency and AIDS;
transferred transplantation, blood transfusion;
malignant tumors (increased levels of Ca-125);
conducting immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory treatment;
autoimmune pathologies;
some severe infections, allergies.

The attending physician decides on an immunogram for recurrent fungal infections, helminthic invasion, infections of the digestive system. Research may be required after organ transplant and in without fail carried out after a blood transfusion.

Preparation for analysis

Expanded immunogram- a complex diagnostic technique that requires careful preparation. A blood test for immunity (status) is given only after a number of conditions are met, without which the results cannot be considered reliable.

Important! Tests have contraindications. It makes no sense to take an analysis during infectious processes, because the results will be distorted. The study is not carried out venereal diseases, during pregnancy and if HIV is suspected (it must first be diagnosed, and an analysis should be done with knowledge of the result).

To test immunity, you need the following preparation:

for 8-12 hours you need to give up food, because blood is given in the morning on an empty stomach;
in the morning before the study, you can drink only clean water;
for a few days you need to give up active sports;
eliminate stress and anxiety;
avoid drinking alcohol the day before the procedure.

Immunogram and immune status - what is it

Immune status (advanced) is a quantitative and qualitative characteristic of the work various organs immunity and defense mechanisms.

Immunogram- this is a way to study the immune status, a blood test to determine the state of the main indicators of immunity.

Without determining the immune status, when there are indications for an immunogram, there is a high risk of a deterioration in a person’s condition, because without accurate diagnosis it is almost impossible to find an adequate therapy. Primary and secondary immunodeficiencies deadly. Their complications will be recurrent bacterial and viral infections, an increased risk of oncology, autoimmune diseases, and CVS pathologies.

The most important indicator of the state - immunoglobulins:

IgA- resist toxins, are responsible for the preservation of the state of the mucous membranes;
IgM- the first ones resist pathological microorganisms, the presence of an acute inflammatory process can be determined by the quantity;
IgG- their excess indicates a chronic inflammatory process, since they appear some time after the influence of the stimulus;
IgE- participate in the development of an allergic reaction.

Assessment of the immune status

The main methods for assessing the immunological status are carried out in one or two stages. Screening test includes a definition quantitative indicators blood serum, immunoglobulins, allergological tests.

Advanced methods for assessing the immune status include the study of the phagocytic activity of neutrophils, T-cells, B-cells and the complement system. The first step is to identify defects. immune system, on the second - a detailed analysis. How long the study is carried out depends on the clinic and the method of diagnosis (screening test or extended immunogram), but on average, the duration is 5-15 days.

Tests conducted at the first level

The first stage is an indicative level, it includes the following tests:

Phagocytic indicators- the number of neutrophils, monocytes, the reaction of phagocytes to microbes.
T-system- the number of lymphocytes, the ratio of mature cells and subpopulations.
B-system- the concentration of immunoglobulins, the ratio of percentage and absolute number B-lymphocytes in peripheral blood.

Tests conducted at the second level

The second stage is the analytical level, it includes such tests as:

Phagocytic function- chemotaxis activity, expression of adhesion molecules.
T-system analysis- production of cytokines, activity of lymphocytes, detection of adhesion molecules, determined allergic reaction.
B-system analysis- Immunoglobulins lgG, secretory subclass lgA are being investigated.

How to decipher an immunogram

In children and adults, immunogram parameters differ. Besides, normal values can be very different in people of the same age group. The norm varies up to 40%, therefore only an experienced doctor can decipher the result.

Norm of indicators of immune status

Table with the norms of an immunological blood test - decoding of some values:

Reference! The numbers are different in a newborn, baby, teenager, adult men and women.

Reasons for rejection

Violation of the immune status has many causes, including:

An increase in the level of lgA is seen with chronic diseases hepatobiliary system, myeloma, alcohol poisoning. The decrease in the indicator occurs when passing radiotherapy, intoxication chemicals, urticaria, autoimmune allergic reactions. In infants physiological norm there will be a low concentration of immunoglobulin. A decrease is also possible with vasodilation.
An increase in lgG is observed in autoimmune pathologies, myeloma, HIV (including when people pass antiretroviral therapy), infectious mononucleosis ( Epstein-Barr virus). A decrease in immunoglobulin is possible with long-term use of immunosuppressants, in children up to six months, with radiation sickness.
An increase in lgM is recorded in acute infectious processes, liver diseases, vasculitis, chronic tonsillitis tonsils. High level observed with helminthic invasion. A decrease in the indicator is characteristic in violation of the pancreas and after its removal.
An increase in antinuclear antibodies occurs with nephritis, hepatitis, and vasculitis. The indicator increases with acute glomerulonephritis, erysipelas, scarlet fever, activity of bacterial pathogens.

With a decrease in the level of phagocytosis, purulent and inflammatory processes. A reduced number of T-lymphocytes can speak of AIDS.

Diagnostic value of the procedure

Immunogram will be the most important diagnostic procedure with suspected immunodeficiency. It allows you to draw up the correct treatment regimen, taking into account the viral load in a separate period of time. An immunogram is recommended for complex diseases for the purpose of differential diagnosis. In this case, the results will be reliable only if the rules of preparation are observed and when decrypted by a competent specialist.

The indicators may differ among athletes, people leading an active lifestyle and those who prefer sedentary work. This and many other factors environment should be taken into account in modern immunology when deciphering the results.

Primary immunodeficiencies

Primary immunodeficiency is a congenital disorder characterized by a decrease in immunity, in which the body is not able to resist infections. They are manifested by frequent severe infectious diseases, resistance to standard therapy. Untimely diagnosis by determining the immune status causes the death of a child in the first months of life. To lethal outcome lead various infections with which the body of the baby does not fight.

Signs of primary immunodeficiency will be:

frequent infections (manifested by sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, meningitis and even sepsis);
infectious inflammation internal organs;
autoimmune diseases;
quantitative and qualitative changes in the blood formula;
persistent digestive problems, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea;
the need for several courses of antibiotic therapy;
persistent enlargement of regional lymph nodes and spleen.

To confirm the diagnosis, a number of studies are carried out, including tests for interferon status, an immunogram for the presence of deviations in the body's defense links, and molecular genetic testing.

In primary immunodeficiency, subcutaneous immunoglobulins are required. Treatment includes drugs to combat the pathologies that have arisen. Drug therapy involves taking antibiotics, antifungal or antiviral agents.

Secondary immunodeficiencies

Secondary immunodeficiencies appear already during life under the influence of various factors that suppress different parts of the immune system. Such disorders can be diagnosed at any age, regardless of gender and field of activity. Acquired immunodeficiencies are characterized by the resistance of infections to ongoing therapy, while infectious processes can be both cause and effect.

The secondary disorder is characterized by recurring infections with severe course. At the same time, they may be affected Airways, organs of the genitourinary system, gastrointestinal tract and CNS.

Where and how is the immune status checked?

You can take tests for immune status in the laboratories of large diagnostic and treatment-and-prophylactic centers. Due to the complexity of the study, not all clinics provide such a service.

Research price

The cost of an immune status test will depend on the indications, the number of tests performed and the location of the laboratory. On average, the price of analysis varies from 2000 to 5000 rubles.

Hand over biological material on the immune status is necessary only according to strict indications and in the direction of the attending physician. Before the appointment of an immunogram, it may be necessary to undergo a number of other studies.

AT Everyday life There are many diseases that threaten human health, but to a greater extent, diseases threaten children. This is because the child's immune system is not yet completely strengthened. And in order to identify a particular ailment, parents often turn to medicine. One way to detect the disease is an immunogram. What is an immunogram and why is it performed for a child? It makes it clear how much the immune system is ready to fight various types diseases.

What is this medical term? To whom and in what cases is an immunogram prescribed? And what indications should be for conducting this examination? These are probably the main questions that are of interest not only to parents, but also to all people interested in their health.

An immunogram can be called medical examination as a result of blood sampling from a vein. It can detect changes in the immune system. Also, an immunologist can determine the number of blood cells, calculate their ratio and evaluate the activity of each type. There are main parameters of immune protection:

the number of leukocytes and their functional ability;
the ratio of leukocytes in percentage terms;
cellular immunity - the quantitative composition of T-lymphocytes;
humoral immunity is the level of immunoglobulins;
quantitative number of B-lymphocytes;
indicators of the compliment system and interferon.

You can find out thanks to this analysis Why do children often get sick? Determine the state of cellular components - leukocytes and lymphocytes. But what is an immunogram for a child and is it really that important?

There is an opinion that the immunogram is done only to people who have been diagnosed with HIV infection. But this is far from being the case and is an erroneous opinion. As a result of a decrease in leukocytes or lymphocytes in a child, an immunogram study is prescribed. Also when children have a rash of unknown origin or fungal disease. Children who often suffer from SARS are also subject to this examination. And also if the child has a predisposition to immunodeficiency. This examination is necessary if the baby (these are children early age) there is an immunodeficiency, the appearance of which is facilitated by frequent colds.

But first of all, an immunogram should be carried out for people who have undergone an organ transplant and have undergone a course of chemotherapy.

An immunogram is prescribed if a blood test in a child shows insufficient or low quantity leukocytes.

In some cases, examinations are carried out using an immunogram in pregnant women. Initially, it is done to those women who are HIV-infected, as well as to patients who have experienced stress or emotional trauma. However, an immunogram is not always needed. And also she is not able to determine all the diseases in a baby or in an adult.

In what cases it is impossible to do an immunogram?

This study is not done if the child has frequent illnesses colds and infections. Often, parents are sure that before vaccination, the child must have an immunogram. But this is an erroneous opinion.
If the child was born healthy and develops well, then the vaccine can be done without this procedure.
If after childbirth the child becomes ill, he has complications in the body (pneumonia, bronchitis), then the thymus gland is detected. But this is not a disease, but is the norm. Although immunity is already weakened, and in this case, vaccinations are contraindicated for up to a year. An immunogram should not be done, because at this age the child still has mother's antibodies in the body.

Taking into account the high cost of this procedure and the low value of its use, you need to understand and be prepared for how to do such an examination and is it really necessary for the child's body?

Research Methods

Immunity analysis requires both capillary and venous blood. It all depends on the purpose of the analysis and on the characteristics of the clinic. In rare cases, for analysis, patients can donate saliva, mucus from the nasopharynx.
To determine the number of leukocytes in the blood of a child, the usual method for calculating the leukocyte formula is used. And to determine the number of phagocytic indices, use the NST-test.
The amount of content of the cellular link of immunity is being investigated.
Before the study, the child should not eat allergic foods, disrupt the daily routine, engage in physical activity on the body, it is important to avoid stressful situations. The latter include even holidays and fun.
A blood test for immunity should be taken on an empty stomach in the morning.

Where is it possible to make an immunogram and what should you know before taking tests?

Those patients who are in rehabilitation centers can take this analysis free of charge. All other applicants are forced to take such an analysis in private clinical laboratories. Why in private? Because the cost of this procedure is high, and state institutions unable to pay for such a procedure. It is impossible to say exactly how much an immunogram costs. Because it's different in different labs. Approximately this price ranges from 1000 to 9000 rubles per procedure.

The day before the test, you do not need to drink alcohol and smoke, then donate blood. These are conditions for an adult patient. For children, the main prescription is to take the test in the morning on an empty stomach. The result of the made immunogram can be obtained after 5-7 days. And when the result is in hand, you need to consult an immunologist - a specialist in deciphering the immunogram parameters of this analysis.

Immunogram results

What does an immunological examination show? It is the main source of information from which you can learn about the functioning of the immune system. Its assessment is carried out at 4 levels, which can be seen in the immunogram.

4 levels of the immune system:

I level in the immunogram can show the state of cellular immunity in terms of lymphocytes. It is considered normal for a child to early development 21 - 85% of lymphocytes. At an older age, 34 - 81% of lymphocytes is the norm. Up to 1 year old, the baby has absolute content lymphocytes, this is an indicator of 1.5 - 11,000. In a child older than 1 year, this indicator is equal to 1 - 5,000 lymphocytes.
Level II determines the fraction of protein in the blood serum. It is necessary to pay attention to the indicator of gamma globulins.
III level. This is where T and B lymphocytes are counted. They are responsible for humoral and cellular immunity. T-lymphocytes are divided into 3 types: helpers, killers, suppressors. The rate of leukocytes is calculated based on their ratio. B-lymphocytes can provide antibody formation. More precisely, allergic reactions in a child. Total immunoglobulin in the blood is 10 - 20 g / l.
Level IV is characterized by the fact that it is possible to determine the number of phagocytes on it. The norm is 1 - 2.5. Phagocytic index 40 - 90. Compliment titer 20 - 30 units. Circulating immune complexes up to 5 at. e.

If all the data is known, then you can find out everything about the health of the child. And you need to remember that only a specialist can deal with the immune system and make an immunogram in a baby. But also, according to the doctor's prescription, additional tests can be prescribed (only if the doctor considers it necessary). It is important to note that the analyzes are deciphered exclusively in the presence of the patient. The results of the immunogram must be accompanied by the results of ultrasound, X-ray and other studies, if they were performed. with immunogram and additional analyzes it will be easier and more reliable for an immunologist to study the causes of the disease and determine the methods of their treatment. But often the immunologist, having looked at what the immunogram shows, concludes that everything is in order with the child, deviations from the norm are not at all a problem and no dangerous diseases The baby does not have, just a weakened immune system.

In order for the immunity of the child to return to normal, it takes some time and compliance with all the recommendations of the doctor. In medicine, there are cases when an immunogram is simply necessary to identify serious illnesses. But along with this, often the basis for this procedure is general analysis blood.

But it should be noted that all children are different and all indicators are the same. If for one baby certain results are unacceptable, then for another child these same numbers are the norm. Everyone's body is individual.

Immunity is necessary for a person in order to effectively fight all infections, viruses and bacteria that enter the body. So, in order for infectious processes to not attack the body, immunity must be consistently high, and the body's defenses must be activated every time there is a threat of disease. But how to determine (assess) the state of immunity? What needs to be done to understand whether the body can protect itself from external negative factors.

Classification of immunity

To date, there are two main types of immunity - this is humoral immunity and cellular. Both of these immune mechanisms are closely interconnected and cannot fully exist if one of them does not work.

The task of both humoral and - is to detect a threat in time (that is, a virus or an infection) and completely destroy them. The protective function in the body is assigned to leukocytes - these are blood cells.

Humoral immunity is necessary for a person in order to fight viruses, bacteria and infections. protective function in this case, immunoglobulin proteins perform.

In order to assess the state of a person's immunity, it is necessary to carry out a special procedure called an immunogram. All the patient needs to do is donate blood from a vein and, according to the state of leukocytes and immunoglobulins, it will be possible to

If we talk about some simple "folk" method for determining immunity, then it is generally accepted that if a person gets sick more than 3 times a year colds, then this indicates his low immunity.

How is an immunogram done?

To make an immunogram, a person needs to take a blood sample from a vein. Be sure to prepare your body for the test. The day before blood donation, it is not recommended to go to the gym, strain the body with physical training, and also drink alcoholic drinks and smoke.

What is a blood test?

After the patient has taken blood, it is sent to the laboratory for analysis.

The essence of the analysis is that the number of leukocytes in the blood is counted. As well as varieties of leukocytes, that is, monocytes, lymphocytes, as well. As you know, leukocytes are red blood cells that are found in the blood.

To assess the level of cellular immunity, it will be necessary to determine the number of class T and class B lymphocytes in the blood.

For rate humoral immunity determine the level of immunoglobulins, that is, there are only two classes - A and G.

As a result, you will be given a conclusion, which will indicate the phagocytic activity of leukocytes.

An immunogram is mandatory for all those who suffer from immunodeficiency, both primary and acquired.

Indications for an immunogram

There are a number of mandatory indications in which the patient can be referred for an immunogram - we will list them.

Immunogram without fail will need to be done for those who have:

There is a suspicion of AIDS and HIV;
An infectious process takes place in the body;
Diagnosis - an allergic reaction of unknown etiology;
Diabetes;
Thyroid diseases;
Anemia;
Oncology;
Atypical perception of the vaccine by the body;
Long-term treatment with immunosuppressants.

What is the peculiarity of the immunogram?

To assess the level of the human immune system, it will be necessary to go through 2 main stages.

The first stage is that the patient must undergo a general blood test and pass a general laboratory test. clinical analysis blood. If the patient has additional complaints about well-being, then a number of additional tests are performed.

If a patient has been diagnosed with disorders of the chromosomal system, then in this case it is imperative to do an immunogram. At permanent illnesses- sinusitis, inflammatory diseases, frontal sinusitis, pneumonia in acute and chronic form.

The only thing is that sexual infections do not require an immunogram and the determination of the body's defenses. In this case, the cause of the violations must be clarified by a urologist and a gynecologist.

Checking the child's immunity

If we are talking about assessing the immunity of a child, then here you need to know some features of the physiological state and the formation of the child's body.

Immunity in a child is formed by about 5 years. That is, even if a child under the age of 5 is very often sick, then there will be no point in conducting an analysis earlier. Of course, according to certain indications of a doctor, you can conduct this analysis. But, it makes no sense to make such a decision on your own.

If a child under 12 months of age is suspected autoimmune diseases, then in this case, the immunogram should be carried out. Important! To conduct a blood test, you will need to donate at least 50 ml of blood from a vein. When it comes to a child, for him it is a very significant and voluminous blood loss.

Persistent infections and viral diseases in young children under 5 years of age, they are rather a certain pattern. Almost the entire spectrum of viral and infectious diseases for children under 5 years of age. Therefore, it is important and necessary to survive this period without much stress for the child.

Evaluation of the results of the immunogram

To fully assess the results of the immunogram, you need to involve an immunologist in this process. Even if the overall result is a deviation from the norm, then it is necessary to refer to the general clinical indications (medical history, well-being, etc.)

At home, it is not possible to determine the level of immunity.

The appearance and character of a person have their own data, according to which one can draw a physiological and moral portrait. The internal immune system of a person also has its own indicators, non-standard fluctuations of which lead to physical ailments, and a person begins to think about how to check immunity.

Immunity and its deficiency

But "nothing lasts forever under the moon", and a person's immunity can fail, which in medicine has the appropriate name - immunodeficiency, which can be different.

Types of immunodeficiency:

Congenital - a person is born already with a genetic pathology, the symptoms of which are easily detected in the first half of a human life;
Acquired immunodeficiency means that cardinal changes in immune functions have occurred immediately during life path after severe illnesses such as diabetes, liver cirrhosis, AIDS, measles, cancerous tumors, rubella, tuberculosis and others.

Varieties of immune system deficiency, like all living things, require timely diagnosis and treatment. How can you tell if your home defense needs help too? There are two options for how to test your immunity: contact an immunologist to find out what tests you need to pass, or do an immunity test yourself at home.

Immunogram analysis

Comprehensive medical research venous blood, which includes many examinations, is called an immunogram, the picture of which, in deciphering the results, will determine the state of the immune system. But not every person who doubts the stability of internal organs needs to rush to take a blood test for immunity.

When and to whom an immunogram is prescribed:

the presence or suspicion of HIV infection;
oncological disease or the risk of such (poor heredity), chemotherapy;
after transplantation or removal of organs;
with suspected immunodeficiency.

The last item includes:

severe damage to the fungus of the oral cavity and other mucous membranes;
frequent infectious diseases more than 6-7 times a year;
causeless increase in temperature throughout the crescent;
increase lymph nodes no visible infection;
purulent recurrent diseases of the mucous membranes and internal organs;
constant pain in the joints, accompanied by causeless fatigue and total loss performance.

There is no single analysis in medicine to determine the state of the activity of the immune system. The immunogram is divided into a series of analyzes, the combined picture of which will subsequently make it possible to establish in which process of immunity the "breakdown" occurred.

Benefits of an immunogram:

high diagnostic accuracy - up to 98%;
painlessness and complete security for a person;
ease of research and high speed of obtaining results;
automation and dynamics in the control of all stages of blood examination.

An expanded set of various tests allows you to accurately determine the degree of damage to immune cells and make early diagnosis diseases.

Classification (decoding) of antibodies in an immunogram

The immunogram parameters in the results vary in three variations: normal, depression (below normal) and excessive activity (above normal).

Immunoglobulin A- this antibody is the protection of all mucous membranes of the body. The desired rate is 0.9 - 4.5 g / l.

Immunoglobulin M includes antibodies directed against infections. The IgM norm ranges from 0.5 g / l to 3.5.

An upward deviation from the norm means the presence of some kind of infection or candidiasis, and can also be a sign of hepatitis, SLE, or arthritis. A decrease in IgM indicates radiation sickness or splenectomy.

Immunoglobulin G is responsible for passive immunity. The norm of IgG is 7 - 17 g / l.

An increase in IgG indicates possible progressive rheumatism or arthritis, and may also indicate the presence of HIV, multiple myeloma, systemic lupus erythematosus, or infectious mononucleosis. A reduced amount of IgG indicates possible poisoning with toluene or xylene, cirrhosis of the liver or radiation sickness.

The listed norms are considered the main ones in the immunogram, the rest of the indicators are too unpredictable and depend on the individuality of the immune system, so they will not be specified here to avoid misunderstandings. Only a specialist can recognize pathology in fluctuations from the norm. Alas, far from all people understand this, causing unreal myths and interpretations.

Determination of immunity status at home

This variation of the immunity test does not require financial costs and any preparation. It is enough to sit comfortably in a chair and sincerely answer the questions with short answers “yes” or “no”. Positive answers should be counted as 1 point and summarized at the end of the test.

Home immunogram:

We encourage you to take the test at home.

Do you have at least one chronic disease?
Do you have at least one of bad habits: frequent drinking and smoking?
Do you suffer from fungal diseases, skin rashes or frequent cold sores?
Are you allergic to anything?
Are you familiar with insomnia and recurring nightmares?
Are your loved ones complaining about the snoring you make in your sleep?
Do you have a mostly sedentary job?
you don't love in free time do sport?
Are you often irritable and lethargic for no reason?
Is it easy to get you into a state of anger, but it takes you an hour to calm down?
Do you include fruits and vegetables in the menu not every day, but from time to time?
Can't imagine a day without sweets?
Do you have problems with weight (overweight or excessive weight loss)?
After a cold, you need long period to recuperate?
Do you often get a sore throat or flu (usually 4-5 times a year)?

If the test results do not exceed 1 point, then there is nothing to worry about, the immune troops of cells in orderly rows in full combat readiness repel strikes from outside.

With a result of 2 to 5 points, a person's immunity rings alarm bells with requests to review rest and nutrition regimes.

With a score above 5 points, the immune system is already emitting SOS signals with might and main, demanding, if not to visit a doctor, then take care of your health for sure.

Even if the home test showed a far from ideal level, this is not a reason for despair and hectic running around the doctors. An adult should understand that, first of all, this is an occasion to find a couple of hours in his busy schedule for a walk in the fresh air, this is a signal of an urgent change in diet in favor of tasty and wholesome food, and, finally, this is a direct requirement of the body's immunity for positivity, optimism and a smile!

3 common questions and real answer

With results in hand various analyzes immunograms, how to find out the diagnosis, whether it is possible to be guided by the norms set forth in the network

Searching for similar results on the World Wide Web based on supposedly "accurate" norms is a waste of time and possibly health. This is tantamount to how to study reviews of an immunogram on the Internet, and draw conclusions based on them. Only a professional immunologist is able to correctly link the result of the tests to the already identified symptoms.

I have a persistent skin rash, a dermatologist is powerless, and an appointment with an immunologist in our region can take up to long months. Is it possible to independently pass all the tests for immunodeficiency?

It is possible, but not necessary. Firstly, you will still need to get to the doctor to decipher the tests. Secondly, you do not know exactly what tests you need, and this step will most likely be a waste of money, because the presence of a chronic skin rash requires, first of all, skin-allergic tests, and not an immunogram study. You should not make a global decision until the examination for immunity is prescribed by the appropriate doctor.

Immunogram tests are quite expensive, and prices vary widely depending on the status of the institution. Is it possible to donate blood in different laboratories?

Absolutely out of the question! The immunogram should be examined in one and the same medical institution. The results of various laboratories can be far from single, everything is interconnected: from the methodology of different tests to laboratory equipment.

If rates medical tests significantly exceed the family budget, you can use the second option for testing immunity: conduct an immunity test yourself.

But with any deviation, they immediately appear various diseases. For example, when hyperreacting to external allergens develops allergic reaction. With hyperactivity and promiscuity, the body's own cells are attacked - appear autoimmune diseases. With a weakened immune system, there may be immunodeficiency state, the body becomes vulnerable to various infections.

What should alert

It is possible to suspect violations in the immune system with frequent,. It might even be respiratory infection without temperature rise. Also, alertness should be caused by unreasonable subfebrile temperature(37.1-38°) for a long time. In addition, a sign of trouble is infections on the skin or rashes of allergic origin, a sharp weight gain or weight loss without dieting, swollen lymph nodes, increased fatigue, etc.

Often we do not pay attention to frequent colds, and a decrease in working capacity and fatigue write off on weather conditions or absence good rest. However, what we consider a trifle can be a sign of a disease, the cause of which is a violation of the immune system. Not a single person is immune from this, since there are many adverse factors that can provoke a disease.

Who needs to check the state of the immune system. At-risk groups

1) People who have undergone a serious illness, surgery, poisoning, hypothermia

Also weaken the immune system chronic diseases. It should be noted that harm to the body can cause uncontrolled reception medicines. First, antibiotics hormonal preparations, long-term use of which can cause a decrease in the body's defenses. A similar reaction is possible with long-term use preparations containing bifidobacteria, so any drug treatment, especially prolonged, should be under the supervision of specialists.

2) Certain age groups

In the life of every person there are periods when the immune system is weakened. At the birth of a baby, only antibodies received from the mother protect, but by six months, innate immunity is gradually “used up”. The immune system of a child begins to function fully by the age of five. Signs of immunodeficiency also develop in the elderly, which is associated with age-related changes in the body. In addition, people are at risk during periods of hormonal changes, for example, during puberty, menopause, and pregnancy.

3) Lifestyle is one of the factors affecting immunity

Inactivity, irrational nutrition with a lack of sufficient vitamins and minerals in food, bad habits will certainly affect health. The situation is aggravated by frequent stress, lack of sleep, overwork, and environmental pollution only enhances the effect of negative factors. Thus, voluntarily or involuntarily, a large part of the population belongs to the risk group.

4) Residents of large cities, work indoors

If you are a resident of a metropolis, spending most of your time in a stuffy room, if diseases are your constant companion, you should diagnose the state of the immune system. To do this, you should visit an immunologist and undergo a painless examination. An immunological study will determine how smoothly the immune system works, whether there are violations, and if so, which ones. Based on the results of the examination, it will be possible to prescribe appropriate drugs to eliminate malfunctions in the immune system.

At the appointment with an immunologist - what you need to know

First of all, the doctor examines skin, evaluates the condition of hair and nails, mucous membrane oral cavity, determines the size of the lymph nodes. It's good if you talk about what is bothering you: frequent colds, irritability or increased fatigue, etc. Based on the history and examination, an examination can be prescribed using instrumental diagnostic methods: ultrasound, x-ray examination, tomography, etc. The purpose of the diagnosis is to visualize the internal organs, including those included in the immune system (thymus, spleen, tonsils, lymph nodes, bone marrow).

Very informative methods laboratory diagnostics . First of all, a differentiated calculation of the ratio of types of leukocytes (lymphocytes, monocytes, granulocytes) is carried out, the indicators of which are determined during a general clinical blood test. For deviations in leukocyte formula appointed "immunity test"- tests of the first stage.

By immunogram you can check the cellular and humoral links of immunity. This stage allows you to determine gross violations in the immune system. In some situations, the patient may be offered a re-examination in a couple of weeks in order to exclude a temporary reaction of the body to any outside influence.

If there are still changes as a result of the re-examination, tests of the second stage are carried out to assess the level and severity of specific immunity defects and prescribe appropriate therapy. This includes the determination of the components of the complement system, the level of circulating immune complexes, the study of interferon status, etc. The set of tests at the second stage may vary depending on the tasks.

Specific standards are not indicated here, since each laboratory has its own indicators, which depend on the diagnostic methodology and the reagents used. By the way, for the diagnosis of the immune system, there is a large number of tests. Some of them are difficult to perform, they require modern equipment and expensive reagents, so such tests are not performed in all laboratories. Today it is possible to study the body's response to pathogenic microorganisms, for example, for staphylococcus aureus, enterobacteria, evaluate the body's response to tetanus, diphtheria, make sure that it is effective antiviral drugs and vaccines.

For each, depending on the alleged disease, a individual program immunity examinations. However, it is better to leave the interpretation of the analysis to a specialist who must take into account the presence of clinical manifestations and the patient's history. For example, the absence of characteristic changes as a result of the analysis in the presence of clinical manifestations will not be considered normal reaction immune system. In addition, the age of the patient is taken into account. As for children, the immune status of a child differs from that of an adult, and only a specialist can correctly interpret the results.

How to Prepare for an Immune System Examination

No specific preparation for the immunogram is needed. However, two weeks before the analysis, you should exclude the use of drugs that affect the state of immunity. If this is not possible, then the doctor should be informed about the medications taken in advance. One day before the examination, it is necessary to refuse physical activity, smoking and drinks containing alcohol. As a rule, the analysis is taken on an empty stomach, but this information can be specified in a specific laboratory.

Test for immunity at home

Despite the fact that it is impossible to determine specific indicators in absentia, there are numerous tests-surveys compiled by physicians. By answering simple questions, you can get an assessment of your immunity without leaving your home. Here is a test compiled by German immunologists. However, it is not suitable for children, as well as persons who currently have diseases of the immune system. Also, the test is not intended for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy. In these cases, the test result will be incorrect.

Instructions for passing the test for immunity

Score 1 point for each positive answer. In case of disagreement with the statement, the point is not added. At the end of the survey, add 2 points to your score if you are over 40. If you are age category 41-60 years old, then add 4 points. If you have crossed the 60-year milestone - add 6 points to the result.

You get colds more than 4 times a year
Viral infections bother you more than twice a year
You have been diagnosed with herpes
You have been treated for shingles in the past 12 months
Are you worried frequent disorders digestion
You have been diagnosed with fungal infections within the past five years
You suffer from or other metabolic disorders
You take medication at least three times a day.
Any damage to the skin does not heal well
You have found chronic inflammation gums
You have had surgery using general anesthesia within the last 12 months
Among your loved ones there are people with frequent infections, chronic or oncological diseases
Deficiency in your diet
Your body weight is below normal
You are forced to regularly follow a low-calorie diet
Sports are not for you
Your sports activities end in severe fatigue
You are an active smoker
Drinking large quantities of alcohol daily has become your habit
Are you a fan of the solarium or enjoy sunbathing in the summer?
Your usual routine: work at night, rest during the day
- your constant problem
You are often forced to associate with unpleasant people
You experience unreasonable fears and fears
Do you feel like the people you are interested in avoid talking to you?
Creative and spiritual uplift for you is a rarity
Relationships with your loved ones have deteriorated lately
You are having difficulty relaxing

Now evaluate the result:

2-15 points	There are minor adverse factors, but they did not affect the state of your immune system. Balanced diet and healthy lifestyle life will help to avoid the deterioration of immunity in the future.
16-25 points	your lifestyle and past illnesses slightly affected the state of the immune system. In order not to cause even more harm to the immune system, think about strengthening it.
Over 25 points	Weakened immunity is the result of past diseases and existing bad habits. There is a risk of developing infectious diseases, now is the time to take action to strengthen immunity.

And yet, nothing can replace the advice of an experienced specialist and a full examination. Remember: trying to treat something that doesn't need treatment can backfire. And with self-treatment, immunity, designed to protect, will begin to fight with the cells of its own body. As a result, aggravation of existing problems or development autoimmune pathologies. Therefore, go through the diagnosis of the immune system, and based on the results, you will be prescribed drugs that are relevant in your case.

Oksana Matias, general practitioner

Illustrations: Anastasia Leman