After the many tests, one of the treatments being done for Category 1 patients is LIT or Lymphocyte Immunization Therapy. LIT, according to www.repro-med.net is procedure whereby white blood cells from the prospective father are injected into the skin of the prospective mother.
According to the website, this is to “allow immune recognition of fetal tissues under circumstances that identify embryonic tissues whether they be the product of maternal or paternal genetic programming as friend. Failure to recognize embryonic tissues leads to insufficient development of tolerance mechanisms and, by extension, a decrease in the generation of tolerance-producing T regulatory cells. LIT may augment the development of tolerance possibly by increasing the numbers and appropriate distribution of T regulatory cells.”
While I have not fully grasped the whole notion of LIT, I would like to share with you the tests that led to this treatment. My husband and I had to undergo a Tissue Cross Matching Test in St. Lukes Global City.
When I first got the results, I rejoiced a little because “negatives” were all over the document. When Dra. Guinto explained to me that this was, in fact, makes me positive for Category 1, I was dumbfounded. It meant that I had NOT formed antibodies needed for the pregnancy to progress.
After Dra. Guinto explained to me my categories (I am Category 1 and 2), she requested me to see Dra. Caroline Tolosa-Gloria from Asian Hospital. That same week, Dra. Gloria was able to squeeze me into her busy schedule and requested for several more tests. Specific to this one, she requested my husband to undergo a Donor Blood Screening in preparation for LIT.
I canvassed some establishments for the Donor Screening rates although Dra. Gloria recommended HP Diagnostics just across Asian Hospital. I made a quick call to check the rates of Asian Institute of Immunology (AII) and Asian Hospital. HP’s rates were way cheaper at PHP1,800, St. Lukes and AII at PHP3,500++.
We decided to have the test in HP. I asked if fasting was needed and their receptionist said that there was no need for the procedure. The next day, we were there at around 2:00 PM. Queue was manageable. They extracted six vials from my husband.
After the husband was cleared as a donor, we scheduled our LIT with Dr. Gloria’s clinic. More on this procedure here>>
While I see the challenges and difficulties that we have to face, I still keep a positive and prayerful disposition that everything will work out in the end. Praying for all of you who are waiting for your own blessings as well.
Babydust to all who needs it. x
