Patients who have recurrent infections could have an immune issue or primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD). PIDD can be caused by a part of the immune system not working properly or being absent altogether. PIDD can be caused by hereditary or genetic issues. If an immune deficiency is caused by outside factors – such as chemotherapy, radiation, HIV, or malnutrition – then it is called a secondary immunodeficiency.
Symptoms that suggest an immune issue
- Recurrent or difficult to treat infections
- Chronic or repeated episodes of pneumonia, ear infections, sinusitis
- Poor growth or weight loss
- Frequent need for antibiotics to treat infections
- Skin infections such as abscesses
- Family history of PIDD
- Swollen lymph glands or nodes
- Enlarged spleen
- Autoimmune disorders
If you or someone in your family is having chronic or repeated infections or signs that may suggest an immune disorder, please contact us to have an evaluation today.