Understanding PIDs/IEIs
Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders (PID) and Inborn Errors of Immunity (IEI) encompass over 480 rare, chronic conditions where the immune system is malfunctioning. Understanding these clinical definitions is the first step toward early diagnosis and lifesaving treatment.
What are PIDs/IEIs?
Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders (PID) occur when part of the body's immune system is missing or does not function properly. These are "inborn" errors because they are caused by genetic defects. Unlike secondary immunodeficiencies (such as HIV/AIDS), which are caused by external factors, PIDs are hereditary. People with PID are more susceptible to infections, which can be recurrent, severe, and sometimes fatal if not properly diagnosed and treated.
10 Warning Signs of PID
Recognize the signs. Early detection saves lives.
Recurrent, frequent infections 4+ ear infections in 1 year (children) or 2+ ear/sinus infections in 1 year (adults)
Pneumonia 2+ pneumonias within 1 year (children) or 1 pneumonia per year for more than 1 year (adults)
Antibiotics ineffective 2+ months on antibiotics with little effect
Need for IV antibiotics Recurrent need for IV antibiotics to clear infections
Recurrent deep abscesses Deep skin or internal organ abscesses that keep coming back
Persistent thrush or fungal infections Thrush in mouth or fungal infection on skin that does not go away
Chronic diarrhea with weight loss Ongoing digestive issues leading to weight loss
Failure to grow or gain weight In infants and children (failure to thrive)
Recurrent viral infections Frequent colds, herpes, warts, or other viral infections
Family history of PID A close family member diagnosed with Primary Immunodeficiency