What is Immunodeficiency?
According to World PI Week (2020), primary immunodeficiencies are rare diseases which occur when a person’s immune system is absent or does not function properly. When a defect in the immune system is inherited (carried through the genes), it is called primary immunodeficiency.
‘There are over 380 forms of Primary Immunodeficiency, ranging widely in severity’ – World PI Week (2020).
According to ASCIA (2020), PIDs occur when the immune system does not work normally. The most important function of the body’s immune system is to defend against infections and other invaders (such as cancer cells), whilst protecting the body’s own cells. Everyone gets infections, however infections in people with PIDs can be:
- Unusually persistent, recurrent or resistant to treatment.
- Due to unusual germs (bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites).
- Unexpectedly severe.
Some PIDs may increase the chance of autoimmunity or cancer. Autoimmunity occurs when the body doesn’t recognise its own cells and attacks them.
Warning Signs:
- Two or more ear infections in one year;
- Two or more sinus infections in one year;
- Recurrent deep skin or organ abscesses;
- Persistent fungal infections
- Repeat viral infections (colds, warts, etc)
- Need for IV antibiotics to clear infections
- Chronic diarrhoea with weight loss;
- Family history of PID;
Diagnosis:
According to the Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, early diagnosis can help prevent or delay some health problems caused by PI. Left untreated, some types of PI can result in serious health problems including organ damage and even death. Taking steps to prevent infection is very important however if you are concerned, speak to your local GP to discuss further.