What Are Immunodeficiency Disorders?
Immunodeficiency disorders are conditions in which the body’s immune system is weakened, making it harder to fight infections. They may be present from birth or develop later in life.
What Causes Adult-Onset Immunodeficiency?
Causes include certain medications (like steroids or immunosuppressants), HIV, cancers, chronic illnesses, autoimmune diseases, malnutrition, or specific immune disorders like anti-IFN-γ autoantibody-associated immunodeficiency or primary immunodeficiency disorders.
Can Adults Develop Immunodeficiency Even If They Were Healthy Before?
Yes. Adults can develop immunodeficiency due to illnesses, medications, or unknown reasons. These are called secondary or acquired immunodeficiencies.
What Are Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders (PID)?
PIDs are conditions in which parts of the immune system do not function properly due to genetic or inherited factors. They are present from birth but may only manifest later in life.
Are Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders Hereditary?
Many PIDs are inherited, but not always. Some occur due to new genetic changes with no family history.
Can Primary Immunodeficiency Appear for the First Time in Adults?
Yes. Some forms are mild and may remain unnoticed until adulthood, when repeated or severe infections start.
What Are the Common Types of Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders in Adults?
Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), IgA deficiency, IgG subclass deficiency, complement deficiencies, and some T-cell or phagocyte defects.
What Symptoms Should Make Someone Suspect an Immunodeficiency?
Frequent infections, unusually severe infections, infections that recur or take longer to recover from – especially chest, sinus, skin, or gut infections.
What Types of Infections Are Common in People with Immunodeficiency?
Recurrent bacterial infections (sinusitis, pneumonia, etc.), fungal infections, viral infections like shingles, and sometimes unusual or rare infections.
How Is Immunodeficiency Diagnosed?
Doctors may perform blood tests to check immune cells, immunoglobulin levels, vaccine response, and, if needed, genetic tests or imaging.
Are Immunodeficiency Disorders Treatable?
Yes. Treatment depends on the cause—options include antibiotics, antifungals, immunoglobulin replacement therapy, vaccines, and managing underlying diseases.
Can People with Immunodeficiency Take Vaccines?
Many can, but live vaccines may not be safe. The doctor will decide which vaccines are recommended and which should be avoided.
How Can Patients Reduce Their Risk of Infection?
Hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick people, staying up-to-date with vaccines, using masks when needed, and taking medications as prescribed.
Can Someone with an Immunodeficiency Live a Normal Life?
Yes. With early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and appropriate treatment, most people lead active, fulfilling lives with fewer infections and better overall health.
Dr. S. Sham
Senior Consultant Rheumatologist,
Kauvery Hospital, Chennai
