Primary Immunodeficiency (PID)

PID results from inborn errors of immunity caused by monogenic germline mutations causing loss of expression, loss of function, or gain of function of the encoded protein.

Traditionally considered rare, detection of inborn errors of immunity are on the rise with the ongoing discovery of novel errors and refined definitions of clinical phenotypes. The collective prevalence of PID is now likely to be 1/1,000 to 1/5,000.

Secondary Immunodeficiency (SID) 

SID results from acquired, systemic disorders (eg. diabetes, undernutrition, HIV infections) caused by one or more of the following:

• Hematological conditions

• Immunosuppressive treatment

• Chronic critical or severe disease

Other contributing factors to SID may include diseases/disorders affecting the endocrine, gastrointestinal, hematologic, and renal systems; iatrogenic causes (eg. immunosuppressants, radiation therapy), infections, alcohol use disorder, malnutrition, physiologic immunodeficiency in infants due to immaturity of the immune system, pregnancy, rheumatologic disorders, burns, cancers, chromosomal abnormalities, congenital asplenia, and critical and chronic illness.

Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare neurological condition characterized by inflammation of the nerve roots and peripheral nerves, leading to damage or destruction of the myelin sheath. This damage disrupts nerve signals, causing slowed or blocked communication and potential loss of nerve fibers. As a result, individuals may experience weakness, paralysis, and motor impairments, particularly in the arms and legs. Sensory disturbances can also occur. These motor and sensory issues typically affect both sides of the body symmetrically, though the severity and progression of the condition can vary between individuals.