Treatment for SCID
It is very tough for families to cope with SCID, but there is still hope. Through treatment and therapy, the child has a lower risk of infection. These treatments have saved 80% of SCID patients. Our goal is to raise money for more successful treatments, and hopefully, help kids live normal, healthy lives.
Stem Cell (Bone Marrow) TreatmentThe bone marrow transplant is the preferred method of treatment for many patients and children. Bone marrow is a tissue located inside the bone, and it produces all of the body's blood cells. In this treatment, conditional chemotherapy is performed so that the unhealthy bone marrow cells are destroyed. The bone marrow transplant allows the stem cells to develop into new healthy white blood cells. White blood cells are the blood cells that fight against infection. This boosts the immune system, thus treating the patient.
However, this patient may risk developing graft-versus-host disease. This is where the patients body starts to attack the stem cells implanted, but this case is very rare, and specific precautions are taken to avoid that.ystem |
Gene TherapyThe gene therapy is still being researched, but as of now, scientists are hoping to collect a sample of the child's bone marrow stem cells in the hip bone and alter the genes so that the bone produces healthy blood cells. The patient has to follow back with the doctor six months after it is performed to see if the treatment is actually working. Also, the doctor has to see if the child has any possibility of developing cancer in his or her later years.
Although this method is very controversial. It may be very beneficial for children who are suffering. With more research, hopefully more treatments can be discovered. |
Antibody Infusions
If your child is unable to receive the treatments above, they can receive an antibody infusion. Because the child does not produce T cells or have healthy B cells, the antibody immunoglobin can be infused through the vein. However, it is recommended that the parent talks with the child's doctor before going through with this process.