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Transient
hypogammaglobulinemia of infancy is an immunodeficiency disorder
in which antibody production by an infant is delayed.
At birth, the immune system is not fully developed. Most of the antibodies in infants are those produced by the mother and transferred via the placenta before birth. Antibodies from the mother protect infants against infection until infants start to produce their own antibodies, usually by age 6 months. Infants who have transient hypogammaglobulinemia of infancy do not start producing antibodies until later. As a result, antibody levels become low starting at age 3 to 6 months and return to normal at about age 12 to 36 months. This disorder is more common among premature infants, because they receive fewer antibodies from the mother. Although the disorder is present at birth, it is not hereditary.
Most infants with the disorder have some antibodies. Therefore, they do not have a problem with infections and need no treatment. However, some infants, particularly those born prematurely, develop infections frequently. Immune globulin can prevent and help treat infections. It is usually given for about 6 to 12 months. Antibiotics are given when needed. Lifespan is unaffected.
Last full review/revision February 2003
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