Many children suffer from recurrent episodes of fever/infections. Is every child who experiences recurrent infections facing a primary or secondary problem in the immune system? Is there a need to conduct an investigation for these children? If so, what kind of investigation will be performed?
Although diseases related to immunodeficiency are relatively rare, a pediatrician must maintain a high level of awareness to identify the rare cases of early primary deficiency whenever possible. Early diagnosis is critical in many cases to provide appropriate treatment before irreversible damage occurs. Multiple antibiotic treatments administered by pediatricians may mask the underlying issue and lead to delays in diagnosis.
An assessment of the immune system should be considered for children with clinical signs of recurrent infections, chronic infections, or unusual pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites). Symptoms such as poor growth, chronic diarrhea, and more raise suspicion of immunodeficiency. For further details, please refer to the attached review article that discusses warning signs that may indicate immunodeficiency.
In conclusion, maintaining a high level of awareness for these diseases may aid in early diagnosis, early treatment, and prevention of irreversible damage.