Immunodeficiencies are problems with the immune system. There are two different types: primary and secondary.

Primary Immunodeficiency is an immune problem that a person is born with. Their immune system has parts that are missing or not working properly. 

Secondary Immunodeficiency is a problem with the immune system caused by medication, treatment or symptoms of another health issue. 

Signs of primary immunodeficiency: 

• Frequent infections: Infections such as ear infections or sinus infections all year round. Serious infections such as pneumonias or frequent infections requiring IV antibiotics.

• Severe or rare infections: Infections such as deep skin or organ abscesses. Severe infections like meningitis or sepsis. Infections with rare or unusual bacteria, viruses or fungi.
  
  People with immunodeficiencies can have many other symptoms.
   

   

Before

Before your child’s visit:

• We may ask you to help us gather all medical records
• Prepare a history or timeline of severe infections

During

You and your child will meet with our immunodeficiency team. They will:

• Review the medical history in depth, especially timing of infections, and conduct a thorough physical exam.
• Suggest any further testing, usually blood tests. Booster vaccines may be recommended.
• Discuss any potential treatment or follow up plans. 

After

After the visit:

• You will get a summary of recommendations from the visit.
• Once any lab tests are complete you will get results and follow up recommendations.
• The team will work to create a treatment plan if it is indicated or refer to other specialists if needed.
• Many questions often come up after the visit and the team will work to help answer these for you. 

We have specialized providers in Immunology.

Leaders in immunology: We are a Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic Center for Primary Immunodeficiencies. That means we offer a full range of treatments for immune diseases. We are also committed to research that enables us to enhance our diagnostic testing and care.

Advanced testing: Our Clinical Immunodiagnostic & Research Laboratory (CIRL) offers some of the most advanced testing in the country.