X-linked agammaglobulinemia

X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA) is a genetic disorder that affects the immune system, making individuals highly susceptible to infections. It is caused by a mutation in a gene on the X chromosome, which is crucial for producing antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that help fight off infections. As a result, people with XLA have very low levels of immunoglobulins, which are types of antibodies, leading to frequent bacterial infections, particularly in childhood. Treatment often involves regular infusions of immunoglobulin to help boost the immune response and protect against infections.