Home alone help . .

This event was to celebrate five years of a pioneering programme set up in response to patients who wished to manage their immunoglobulin at home whenever possible. Papworth HospitalÆs Dr Andrew Exley, consultant immunologist, explained the eventÆs background: ôWith the help of Beckman Coulter Diagnostics we have been able to identify many new cases of both primary and secondary immunodeficiency in adults, and to monitor closely the effectiveness of their treatment. Since beginning antibody replacement therapy many of these people now enjoy better health, leading an active life with their families and in their workplaces. The aim of this special day was to enable patients using home-care therapy to meet up with others who are facing similar challenges, and with our clinical and diagnostic teams. The event also raised funds to establish a local patientsÆ support group and newsletter.ö A highlight of the day came when Beckman Coulter û a key supporter of the family fun day û presented a cheque for ú1000. The companyÆs Jag Grewal said: ôWe are delighted to support the immunoglobulin home therapy programme. This event has certainly helped to raise the profile of immunoglobulin therapy, including treatment of secondary immunodeficiency arising after bone marrow or stem cell transplants. We think advances in diagnostic techniques by Beckman Coulter have contributed to moreeffective diagnosis and enabled clinicians to determine infusion requirements more accurately.ö