Always Sick - Could It Be Immune Deficiency?
As an immunologist, part of my job is to identify and treat immune deficiencies, which can predispose patients to recurrent infection. Primary immune deficiency is remarkably under-diagnosed, and it can often take years of chronic illness before a definitive diagnosis is obtained. This delay in diagnosis is frustrating for both patients and their physicians. However, a proper diagnosis and treatment for immune deficiency can be life-changing. With this in mind, I'd like to share the Warning Signs of Primary Immune Deficicency, courtesy of the Jeffrey Modell Foundation: 10 Warning Signs of Primary Immunodeficiency in Children 1. Four or more new ear infections within one year. 2. Two or more sinus infections within one year. 3. Two or more months on antibiotics with little effect. 4. Two or more pneumonias within one year. 5. Failure of an infant to gain weight or grow normally. 6. Recurrent, deep skin or organ abscesses. 7. Persistent thrush in mouth or fungal infection
