Mannose binding lectins

[lynn]

DS(15)'s new ID physician ran a bunch of tests, including the Igenex WB which of course was indeterminate. I haven't gotten the copy of the results yet, but he just sent me a lab request to test mannose binding lectins after telling me that the tests he has done so far indicate an "abnormality in how DS' body fixes bacteria and viruses." The actual appointment will be in a few weeks, after the lab suppies the data. I looked up MBL (yet another abbreviation I can add to my list). Apparently this is part of the body's innate immune system and works together with the other immune systems that are acquired over time. There seems to be some confusion over whether MBLs are necessary or not, and also whether they are helpful or not. If you have the MBL system too activated, it could lead to too much inflammation. If you have a deficiency, it could allow more infections (notably candida, among others.) Since I have no idea what motivated the Dr to ask for this, it is hard to predict what the result would be. Has anyone dealt with this problem?

[dcmom]

This must be Dr V in Staten Island?

[lynn]

Yes, that's the one. Although I 've read over and over that the Igenex often comes out indeterminate, I apparently thought mine would be a clear yes/no. Then adding in the confusing additional test with its weird overtones of alternate immune systems just makes my eyes go all twisty.