What can you tell me about intralipids for NK cells?

[Joeyinpouch]

Hello,

I'm new to all this immunity issues although sadly not TCC. After 5 IVF cycles and 3 FET we have had just one chemical pregnancy. I was recently, finally, tested for NK cells and on the test levels in Australia came in high at 21%. I also have endometriosis and had a form of viral arthritis when I was in my early 20's.

For my last cycle I was on prednisolone (10mg from stims 20mg from collection), lovenox and baby asprin (both from transfer).

Unfortunately it wasn't the silver bullet and my last cycle was a negative too but as I'm aged 42 I also realise I have age against me too to get the perfect embryo. Which makes me so **** mad I didn't have these tests done 2 years, many wasted cycles and good quality and younger embryos ago....

Anyway I have been reading about intralipids and while my Doctor doesn't use them he is prepared to listen. It seems a lot less invasive that some of the other treatments.

SO my questions - when do you take your intralipids, how much etc. Do you
still take the prednisolone, lovenox etc.? And any known side effects for you and (hopefully) baby? And any other words of wisdom to expedite this process - things to look out for etc?

Thanks in advance for any help.

[poohbear]

Joey,
I've done 2 intralipid infusions in two cycles. I also have high nk activity like your's. I'm 43 and the first cycle I did the intralipid I got my early BFP but lost it early. I also take baby aspirin and lovenox post O. It was most likely egg problem due to age. Intralipids is derived from soy and egg so unless you have soy or egg allergy it really isn't a big deal. If you have liver problems it could be a problem but really I had no major side effects but some fatigue, mild headache and mild aches for a day. It's less expensive than IVIG. In the states for nk activity many RE's who treat patients for high nk's have switched to intralipids. You might want to locate a doctor in the US who will work with your doctor if he is willing and there isn't access where you are. There is one I know of who will do that and other people may know of more.

[egirl]

Joeyinpouch,

Dr. Beer's office is not using intralipids - I think that says something about their confidence in their use. They make $400-something on an infusion whether they Rx IVIG or Intralipids so they don't have a monetary interest in pushing IVIG.

FWIW, I used to work in immunology in and R&D laboratory and I honestly do not understand the science behind how intralipids work. They're soy fat and your body is going to metabolize it like any other fat that you pump through your system.

Just because something works "in vivo" (in glass) doesn't mean it works "in vitro". I was part of the Coulam study and my lab tests show that I "should" respond better to intralipids than IVIG but since I'm giving it all I have to get pregnant, I'm sticking with IVIG as it has hard science behind it.

About protocol: do an infusion on CD2 and then w/i 48 hours of transfer. If you get a BFP, infuse immediately. So yes, you take it all together.

I would reckon that you have age and immune issues working against you. Try to get the endo under control (see a microsurgeon, don't do a full lap as it takes too long to heal).

[Joeyinpouch]

Thank you both for your responses. Good luck with your 2WW egirl.

I am in long down reg (again) and will be using the steroids/lovenox/asprin combo again. The only thing different is adding Human Growth Hormone which is meant to help with age issues.

Good luck all!

[egirl]

Thank you both for your responses. Good luck with your 2WW egirl.

I am in long down reg (again) and will be using the steroids/lovenox/asprin combo again. The only thing different is adding Human Growth Hormone which is meant to help with age issues.

Good luck all!

Joeyinpouch,

Can you please tell me how your HGH protocol works?

Thanks!