Immunodeficiency Disorders and Recurrent Infections

Diagnosis and Care by an Allergist / Immunologist

If you or your child experience frequent, severe, or hard-to-treat infections, there may be an underlying issue with the immune system. Immunodeficiency disorders affect the body’s ability to fight infections effectively and often require evaluation by a specialist. At AllergySA, our board-certified allergist/immunologists are specially trained to diagnose and manage immune system disorders and help patients stay healthy.

What Is an Immunodeficiency Disorder?

An immunodeficiency disorder occurs when part of the immune system does not function properly, making it harder for the body to defend against infections. These conditions can affect children or adults and may be present from birth or develop later in life.

Primary vs. Secondary Immunodeficiency

• Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders (PIDD) are typically genetic and present early in life, though some are not diagnosed until adulthood.
• Secondary Immunodeficiency occurs as a result of another condition or treatment, such as certain medications, chronic illness, or cancer therapy.

Allergists and immunologists specialize in identifying primary immunodeficiency disorders and managing their long-term care.

Signs and Symptoms of Immunodeficiency

Recurrent infections are the most common sign of an immune system problem. Warning signs may include:

• Frequent ear, sinus, lung, or skin infections
• Infections that are severe or difficult to treat
• Need for repeated or prolonged antibiotic use
• Pneumonia more than once
• Chronic sinusitis or bronchitis
• Poor response to vaccines
• Slow recovery from illness
• Family history of immune disorders

Why See an Allergist / Immunologist?

Allergists are uniquely trained in both allergy and immune system disorders. When infections are frequent or persistent, an allergist/immunologist can determine whether allergies, asthma, or an underlying immune deficiency is contributing to the problem.

Seeing a specialist will help by identifying immune system abnormalities early, prevent long-term complications, reduce infections and antibiotic use, and improve your overall health and quality of life.

How Allergists Diagnose Immunodeficiency Disorders

Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination, focusing on infection patterns, severity, and response to treatment.

Your AllergySA specialist may recommend:

• Blood tests to evaluate immune cells and antibody levels
• Assessment of vaccine responses
• Evaluation for associated allergic or autoimmune conditions
• Review of family history and prior infections

These tests help determine whether a primary immunodeficiency disorder is present and guide appropriate treatment.

Treatment and Management of Primary Immunodeficiency

Treatment depends on the specific type of immunodeficiency and the severity of symptoms. Our allergists create individualized care plans to support immune function and reduce infections. Infection prevention and monitoring will include prompt treatment of infections, preventative strategies to reduce exposure, and regular follow-up visits to monitor immune health.

Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy

For certain antibody deficiencies, immunoglobulin replacement therapy may be recommended. This therapy provides the antibodies the body cannot produce on its own and helps prevent serious infections.

Coordinated, Long-Term Care

Allergists often work closely with primary care providers and other specialists to ensure comprehensive care while supporting patients and families through long-term management.

Immunodeficiency Care for Children and Adults

Primary immunodeficiency disorders can affect patients of all ages. Early diagnosis in children can prevent complications and support normal growth and development, while adult diagnosis can significantly improve health outcomes and reduce recurrent illness.