Rosie gets an Intragam

I had developed a condition called hypogammaglobulinemia. My Oncologist suggested this may have been a possible response from my earlier chemotherapy treatment. What it meant was my immune system had been compromised and my bodies ability to fight off infections was very low. I was experiencing many re current infections. Because of this I was offered to be treated with a immunoglobulin infusion called Intragam. INTRAGAM P is a preparation of normal human immunoglobulin, which is usually found in the body. Immunoglobulins are proteins produced by plasma cells (white blood cells) to aid in fighting infections. Intragam P is used to treat patients who need replacement of antibodies which form part of our immune system and can provide protection against some infections. The blood is collected from voluntary donors and prepared for intravenous use, infusion into a vein. In total, this procedure can take up to three to four hours. Vital signs are monitored regularly throughout the infusion, in line with hospital's policy. There can be adverse reactions, but I was always fine. Each time I have this therapy I would develop over the next few days a few minor reactions such as bone pain, headaches, abdomen (period pain), tiredness, reduced smell and taste and itchy skin. These conditions are considered normal reactions and in my case settled over a couple of weeks. Special thanks to the Royal Hobart Hospital and staff from the Oncology Outpatient department for their assistance with the clip on Intragam.