Diseases

immunodeficiency syndrome

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Overview

People with primary immunodeficiency (PI) have an immune system that does not work correctly. This means that people with PI are more likely to get and become very sick from infections. There are more than 400 types of PI that vary in severity, which affects how early they are detected.

Symptoms

  • frequent and recurrent pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections
  • inflammation and infection of internal organs
  • blood disorders, such as low platelet count or anemia
  • digestive problems, such as cramping, loss of appetite, nausea and diarrhea
  • delayed growth and development

Causes

  • many primary immunodeficiency disorders are inherited — passed down from one or both parents.

Risk factors

  • the only known risk factor is having a family history

Diagnosis

  • blood tests.
  • prenatal testing.

Medicines used

Frequently asked questions

What is immunodeficiency syndrome?

People with primary immunodeficiency (PI) have an immune system that does not work correctly. This means that people with PI are more likely to get and become very sick from infections. There are more than 400 types of PI that vary in severity, which affects how early they are detected.

What are the symptoms of immunodeficiency syndrome?

frequent and recurrent pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, inflammation and infection of internal organs, blood disorders, such as low platelet count or anemia, digestive problems, such as cramping, loss of appetite, nausea and diarrhea, delayed growth and development

What causes immunodeficiency syndrome?

many primary immunodeficiency disorders are inherited — passed down from one or both parents.

Which medicines are used for immunodeficiency syndrome?

immunoglobulin

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