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Patients & Consumers Conditions En Español Find an Allergist / Immunologist Just for Kids New Research Parent Resources Pollen Levels Publications Real Life Stories Request a Speaker School Tools Seniors The Virtual Allergist™ Treatments Videos Search by Condition (A-Z) Search by Topic Allergy & Asthma Issues Educational Brochures Elements of Allergy and Asthma Order Public Education Materials Wall Street Journal Washington Post Supplement Allergy Shots Drug Guide LABAs Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)		Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD) comprise a group of more than 100 diseases which are due to defects in the body's defenses (immune system). These diseases affect thousands of infants, children, and adults in the United States. In most cases, PIDD are associated with acute or recurrent infections depending on the portion of the immune system affected. Most PIDD are inherited in our genes, so they are present at birth, but they often do not become apparent or diagnosed until late in childhood, or even in adult life. It often takes time for a pattern of recurrent infections or other symptoms to develop before a PIDD is suspected. There are more than 100 different genetic causes of PIDD. Signs that you or your child might have a PIDD include: Recurrent, unusual, or difficult to treat infections Poor growth or loss of weight Recurrent pneumonia, ear infections or sinusitis Multiple courses of antibiotics or IV antibiotics necessary to clear infections Recurrent deep abscesses of the organs or skin A family history of PIDD Swollen lymph glands or an enlarged spleen Autoimmune disease If you think you have a PIDD, talk to an allergist/immunologist, a pediatrician or internist with two to three years additional training to manage allergies, asthma and immunodeficiencies. Some PIDD can mimic other conditions including allergy, asthma, or eczema and vice versa, so evaluation by an allergist/immunologist is extremely helpful for reaching a diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan. Immunologists can also help in the management of Secondary Immunodeficiencies that may result from various conditions including cancer therapies, bone marrow transplantation and immune-modulating drugs used to treat a variety of autoimmune conditions. To find an allergist/immunologist near you, use the AAAAI Physician Referral Directory. More Information about PIDD Our Immune System: The Basics PIDD: B cell and Antibody Problems PIDD: T Cell Problems PIDD: Neutrophil Problems Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy Genetic Inheritance: The Basics Find the Latest Research Other Resources IDF Patient & Family Handbook For Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases, 4th Edition. School guide Tips to Remember: Recurrent or unusually severe infections 10 warning signs of immunodeficiency Jeffrey Modell Foundation Immune Deficiency Foundation US Immunodeficiency Network NIH Patient Support Organizations <back>
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