[Wrast5423]

Immunoglobulins never rebounded after first transplant

by Wrast5423 on Thu Nov 12, 2015 6:30 am

Hello all

My dad is 13 days post autologous stem cell transplant #2. Took about 3 years to relapse from the first.

I learned during one of our daily trips to the clinic that his immunoglobulins never rebounded after the first transplant. They remained SUPER low. So this time they did infuse him with IgG (and others; can't remember). During his first remission, he made it infection / illness free. I'm baffled and grateful.

So what's the story with this? Anyone have a similar experience or knowledge to share? I fully trust his care team and know the next time I get face time they'll explain. I value real life perspectives too.

Thank you all and keep rockin' your journey.

[Ellen Harris]

Re: Immunoglobulins never rebounded after first transplant

by Ellen Harris on Thu Nov 12, 2015 3:29 pm

I am 13 months past autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). My immunoglobulins are

IgG 533
IgA 72
IgM 20.

They have fluctuated, but seem to be low most of the time. The interesting thing is that about 4 months after the ASCT, they came up. Then I went on maintenance of Velcade, bi-weekly, 5 mg of Revlimid (21 days on / 7 days off), and 12 mg dex with the Velcade. After a couple of rounds, the immunoglobulins began to trend downward. I have been off maintenance for about 2 months, and they are still low. My hem/onc says not to be concerned, that I am in a good remission, and the immunoglobulins are sufficient. He even went as far as to say to "forget about the IgM."

But, I am also wondering, after being off all chemo for a couple of months, why the immuno­globulins have not recovered, and what it might mean for my immune system ... not only in response to the infectious agents, but also with respect to my ability to defend against multiple myeloma and other cancer cells.

Let me know if you discuss this with your doctor and what he/she says.

Good luck in recovering from your second SCT!

[PattyB]

Re: Immunoglobulins never rebounded after first transplant

by PattyB on Tue Nov 17, 2015 3:02 pm

I'm also looking forward to comments on these questions. I am curious based on my husband's recent autologous stem cell transplant and what he might be able to expect on his D+90 checkup.