Immune deficiency and the lung

Abstract 

Effective gas exchange means that lungs have large, permeable surfaces. However, this weakens defences against infection. Respiratory infections are common in childhood but are also a common presenting feature of primary immunodeficiency, so it is important to recognise warning signs of an underlying immunodeficiency. It is vital to identify rare infections and unusual patterns of common infection which suggest immunodeficiency in order to enable early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Combined immunodeficiencies often present with persistent viral infection, whereas antibody deficiencies present with recurrent bacterial infection. Recurrent bacterial infection is a feature of complement deficiency and phagocytic disorders, which may also present with fungal infection. Prompt recognition and early diagnosis with appropriate investigations and aggressive treatment will prevent sequelae which includes bronchiectasis and respiratory failure.

Keywords:  Severe combined immunodeficiency syndrome, Antibody deficiency, Polysaccharide antibody deficiency, Intravenous immunoglobulins