Primary Immune Deficiency


What is Primary Immunodeficiency (PID)?

PID is a disorder where the body is unable to produce antibodies. Antibodies are a critical component that allows our bodies to fight off any foreign invaders therefore PID patients are more susceptible to persistent infections.  Most PID cases are genetically linked and are usually diagnosed at a young age and they should not be confused with secondary immunodeficiency, which is due to other causes such as medication, diseases, or environmental factors.


Signs and Symptoms

Consult your physician if you have two or more of the following signs and symptoms of PID:  

Eight or more new ear infections within one year
Two or more pneumonias within one year
Two or more serious sinus infections within one year
Two or more months of antibiotics with little to no effect
Inability of an infant to gain weight or grow normally
Recurrent skin or organ abscesses
Persistent thrush after age one
Necessitating IV antibiotics to clear infections
Two or more deep-seated infections such as meningitis, osteomyelitis, cellulitis or sepsis
A family history of immunodeficiency


What is the treatment for PID?

Treatment for PID usually includes long-term antibiotics, Immunoglobulin, or stem cell transplantation. Immunoglobulin therapy works by supplying the immune systems with antibodies to help fight off infections.  Treating PID with immunoglobulin therapy has had a long record for effectively treating PID and helping patients lead healthier lives.