Complex & Antigenic Infections
Specialized treatment for mold illness, mycoplasma, parasites, and other challenging infections
When Infections Become Complex
Some infections are notoriously difficult to diagnose and treat. They evade standard testing, hide within biofilms, trigger exaggerated immune responses, and cause a wide array of confusing symptoms. At Arizona Integrative Medical Center, we specialize in these challenging cases.
Complex infections often occur alongside other infections (co-infections), making the clinical picture even more complicated. Many patients have seen multiple doctors without getting answers. We take a systematic, comprehensive approach to unraveling these complex cases.
Solving the Puzzle
Complex infections require detective work. We combine thorough history-taking, advanced testing, and clinical expertise to identify the underlying causes of your illness and create targeted treatment protocols.
Conditions We Treat
Mold Illness (CIRS)
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) occurs when genetically susceptible individuals are exposed to water-damaged buildings. Mold and mycotoxins trigger a persistent inflammatory response.
Common Symptoms:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Cognitive dysfunction ("mold brain")
- Respiratory issues and sinus problems
- Joint and muscle pain
- Electric shock sensations
- Light sensitivity and red eyes
- Unusual skin sensations
Mycoplasma Infections
Mycoplasma are tiny bacteria that lack cell walls, making them resistant to many antibiotics. They can cause chronic, low-grade infections that evade detection.
Common Manifestations:
- Chronic fatigue
- Respiratory symptoms
- Joint pain and arthritis
- Neurological symptoms
- Gulf War Illness connection
- Often co-occurs with Lyme disease
Parasitic Infections
Parasites are more common than most people realize, even in developed countries. They can cause chronic symptoms and are often overlooked.
Common Symptoms:
- Digestive issues (bloating, diarrhea, constipation)
- Fatigue and sleep disturbances
- Skin issues and itching
- Grinding teeth at night
- Food sensitivities
- Iron deficiency anemia
Biofilm-Associated Infections
Many chronic infections persist because bacteria form biofilms - protective communities encased in a slimy matrix that shields them from antibiotics and the immune system.
Characteristics:
- Infections that recur after treatment
- Antibiotic resistance
- Chronic sinus infections
- Chronic urinary tract infections
- Dental and gum infections
- Common in Lyme disease
Other Complex Conditions We Address
- Candida overgrowth: Systemic yeast issues causing brain fog, fatigue, and digestive problems
- SIBO: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
- Chlamydia pneumoniae: Chronic intracellular bacterial infection
- Rickettsia: Tick-borne infections related to Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
- Stealth pathogens: Various hard-to-detect infections
- Post-vaccine syndromes: Immune dysregulation following vaccination
Our Diagnostic Approach
Complex infections require comprehensive testing:
Specialty Testing
- Mycotoxin panels (Great Plains, RealTime)
- CIRS markers (MSH, VIP, MMP-9, TGF-beta1)
- DNA Connexions testing
- Specialty parasite testing
- Mycoplasma PCR and antibody panels
Functional Assessment
- Comprehensive stool analysis
- Organic acids testing
- Heavy metal testing
- Immune function panels
- HLA genetic testing (for CIRS)
Our Treatment Approach
1. Mold Illness (CIRS) Protocol
- Source removal: You must leave the contaminated environment
- Binders: Cholestyramine, activated charcoal, bentonite clay to remove toxins
- Anti-inflammatory support: Omega-3s, curcumin, and specialized protocols
- MARCoNS treatment: Nasal colonization treatment when present
- Peptide therapy: VIP nasal spray for advanced cases
- Limbic system retraining: DNRS or similar programs
2. Antimicrobial Protocols
Herbal Antimicrobials
Targeted herbal protocols using evidence-based botanicals effective against specific pathogens.
Biofilm Disruptors
Enzymes and natural compounds that break down biofilm matrices to expose hidden pathogens.
Ozone Therapy
Major autohemotherapy and other ozone modalities to kill pathogens and modulate immunity.
IV Therapy
High-dose vitamin C, silver hydrosol (when appropriate), and immune-supporting nutrients.
3. Immune Modulation
- Low-Dose Immunotherapy (LDI) for immune regulation
- Peptide therapies (Thymosin Alpha-1, BPC-157)
- Transfer factors for targeted immune support
- Medicinal mushrooms for immune modulation
4. Detoxification Support
- Multiple binders tailored to specific toxins
- Glutathione support (oral, liposomal, or IV)
- Infrared sauna therapy
- Lymphatic support and drainage
- Liver and kidney support
5. Gut Restoration
The gut is often severely affected in complex infections:
- Comprehensive stool testing and treatment
- SIBO protocols when present
- Candida treatment protocols
- Gut barrier repair
- Microbiome restoration
Patience is Required
Complex infections take time to resolve. Treatment typically spans 6-18 months, with some cases requiring longer. We'll be with you every step of the way, adjusting protocols as needed and celebrating progress along the journey.
Struggling with a Complex Infection?
If you've been suffering with symptoms that conventional medicine hasn't been able to explain or treat, complex infections may be the answer. Our specialized approach can help uncover hidden infections and create a path to recovery.
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