Common Variable Immune Deficiency (Pediatric)

What is common variable immune deficiency?

Common variable immune deficiency is one of the most common forms of primary immune deficiency disorders. It is usually diagnosed in older children and adults. Presenting symptoms may include recurrent and/or severe respiratory tract infections, enlarged lymph nodes, enlarged liver and spleen, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and rarely malignancy. Patients have low levels of immunoglobulins and abnormal response to vaccinations.

How is common variable immune deficiency diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made based on clinical findings, low immunoglobulin levels (low IgG and sometimes low IgA and/or IgM), poor vaccine response, and exclusion of other conditions that may cause low immunoglobulins.

What is the treatment for common variable immune deficiency?

Treatment of this condition may involve replacing immunoglobulins and prompt, aggressive antibiotic therapy when infections occur. Patients should be closely monitored for complications such as anemia, thrombocytopenia, bronchiectasis, inflammatory bowel disease, and malignancy.