Cellular and genetic basis of primary immune deficiencies

Targeted screening for primary immunodeficiency disorders in the neonatal period and early infancy

Background

Primary immunodeficiency diseases (PID) comprise a group of more than 300 diseases that affect development and /or function of the immune system.

Objectives

The aim of this study was diagnosis of PID among a suspected group of neonates and infants within the first six months of life as well as identifying the warning signs of PID characteristic to this period.

Method

Fifty neonates presenting with warning signs of PID were enrolled in the study.

Results

The study revealed that twenty six patients (52%) were diagnosed with Primary Immunodeficiency, T cell/combined immunodeficiency were noted as the most common PID class (88.5%) with fourteen T-B-SCID patients (70%) and six T-B+ SCID patients (30%), phagocytic disorders were estimated to be 7.7% while 3.8% were unclassified immunodeficiency. The mean age of presentation for PID group was 1.42±1.38 months with a diagnostic lag of 3.08±1.78 months. Consanguinity was positive in 76.9% of the PID group. Lower respiratory tract infections, persistent fungal infections and lymphopenia were the most significant warning signs for diagnosing PID with a p value of (0.01). Combined, lower respiratory tract infections, fungal infections and lymphopenia were 12.3 times more likely to be associated with PID.

Conclusion

Focused screening in high risk neonates proved to be a valuable tool for diagnosis of PID disorders.

Skin manifestations in primary immunodeficient children

Skin manifestations are prevalent in primary immunodeficiency disorders (PID). In a large proportion of patients, they manifest as presenting signs and serve as important factors for the early diagnosis of PID. Only a few studies describing the spectrum of skin disorders in PID are available. The objective of the current study was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of skin manifestations in children with PID. Participants were 128 pediatric patients with PID (aged <16 years) registered prospectively over 6 years. Skin manifestations were observed in 61 patients (48%), and those manifestations were the presenting features in 50 (39% of total PID and 82% of those with skin lesions). Skin infections were the most prevalent manifestations, seen in 39 patients (30%), followed by eczemas in 24 (19%). Skin infections were significantly more prevalent in those with congenital defects in phagocyte number, function, or both, as well as in those with well-defined immunodeficiencies. Although widely present in all participants with PID, eczema was a consistent feature (100%) in patients with hyper IgE syndrome and Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS). Erythroderma of infancy with diffuse alopecia was seen exclusively in patients with severe combined immunodeficiency disorders, telangiectasia in patients with ataxia telangiectasia, and partial albinism with silvery gray hair in those with Chediak-Higashi syndrome. Autoimmune skin manifestations were observed in 6% of reported cases of PID. This study highlights the importance of awareness of skin manifestations of PID to assist in the early diagnosis and management of these disorders.

Diagnosis and treatment of primary immunodeficiency disease: the role of the otolaryngologist

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to review the diagnosis and treatment of primary immunodeficiency disease (PID) and the role of otolaryngologists in the management of PID.

METHODS

A search was conducted of PubMed and the Web sites of organizations for PID patients for literature pertaining to the diagnosis and treatment of PID, with an emphasis on the role of otolaryngologists. The reference lists of selected articles were reviewed for additional articles.

RESULTS

Patients with PID commonly present with respiratory tract infections (eg, recurrent ear, nose, or throat infections) and chest disease. Diagnostic delays or inadequate treatment of PID may lead to significant morbidity and premature mortality. Immunoglobulin (Ig) replacement is the cornerstone of therapy for most patients with PID. Although intravenous Ig is the most popular route of administration in the United States, subcutaneous Ig administration may be appropriate for patients with poor venous access, those who are unable to tolerate intravenous Ig, or those who prefer the independence and flexibility of self-administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Recognition and diagnosis of PID by otolaryngologists are critical to optimizing patient outcomes. Several therapeutic regimens for Ig replacement are now available that offer patients increased flexibility and independence.