Why are my immune system readings not low although I am on immunosuppressants?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 54-year-old woman and I am on immunosuppressant drugs for Behcet's and Sjogren's disease. My latest blood tests are a bit off and I am waiting for a specialist appointment, but I would be so appreciative if someone in the know can let me know what might be happening.

IgA is 27.4 g/l (.8-4) hh (is that a pretty high result?).
IgM 5.9. G/l (7-16)- low.
GGT 71 u/l (. >50)- high.
Total protein 86 g/l. (66-84)- high.
Albumin 32 g/l. (32-48).
Globulin 53 g/l. (25-41).

Rouleaux formation in the blood kidney stones (due for surgery in a week). Electrophoresis is a marked polyclonal increase in the gamma fraction.

Symptoms multiple wedge fractures last year from twisting in the car. Rib fracture from a massage. Back pain, bone pain, and joint pain. Sore upper right quadrant of the abdomen with distension, changed bowel pattern. I do not drink. I am now 5 feet 3 after losing nearly 4 inches in height recently and 207 lbs. On immunosuppressant meds. So should not all my immune systems reading IgA, IgG, and IgM be suppressed?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Your immunoglobulin levels are increased due to the fact that you have autoimmune conditions. Yes, the immunoglobulin levels need to be reduced since you are taking immunosuppressant therapy but that will occur only once your autoimmune conditions are adequately controlled. The medications are working on reducing the effects of the disease but they require time to bring the immunoglobulin levels to normal. Your total protein is increased due to the globulin fraction which in turn is due to increased immunoglobulins.

I hope this clarifies things for you.