I have tested positive for IgA deficiency. I was sexually active more than 15 years ago but not since then. For the last 10 years i have been suffering from stomach discomfort and urticaria when my stomach is hurting. I also am hypothyroid. My doctor says I could have recurrent infections. The only infections that I have had were uti. Now I am afraid if this may be HIV related, due to pancreatic cancer or worse? Can you pls give me some help. I have an appt with an immunologist but that is a week away.

Hi,

I bet you're the kind of person who thinks every time he has a headache it must be a terminal brain tumor, right? Yeah, I thought so. What's up with all the doom and gloom? IgA deficiency is a relatively common condition as I'm sure your immunologist will explain to you in great detail. It may well account for some of your gastrointestinal symptoms and can be associated with hives (as can thyroid disease). So you do have some medical issues to deal with -- hypothyroidism, urticaria, IgA deficiency, etc. Why are you taking the quantum leap to assume that you have HIV/AIDS, pancreatic cancer "or worse?" (By the way, what could be worse? Ebola virus?)

You haven't had sex in the past 15 years, so I assume you're probably a bit wacky for this reason alone. However, your concerns about HIV/AIDS and pancreatic cancer or worse are completely unfounded and irrational. Time to get a grip on reality sweetie! Talk to your immunologist. He should also help calm your totally unwarranted fears. OK?

Dr. Bob