Primary Immunodeficiencies: Diseases of Children and Adults - A Review

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2021:1289:37-54. doi: 10.1007/5584_2020_556.

Abstract

Primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) belong to a group of rare congenital diseases occurring all over the world that may be seen in both children and adults. In most cases, genetic predispositions are already known. As shown in this review, genetic abnormalities may be related to dysfunction of the immune system, which manifests itself as recurrent infections, increased risk of cancer, and autoimmune diseases. This article reviews the various forms of PIDs, including their characterization, management strategies, and complications. Novel aspects of the diagnostics and monitoring of PIDs are presented.

Keywords: Clinical symptoms; Diagnostics; Genetic defects; Primary immunodeficiency; Treatment strategy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Autoimmune Diseases / diagnosis
  • Autoimmune Diseases / epidemiology
  • Autoimmune Diseases / genetics
  • Child
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes* / diagnosis
  • Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes* / epidemiology
  • Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes* / genetics
  • Neoplasms
  • Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases*