Primary and secondary immunodeficiencies

Abstract

Primary immunodeficiencies are rare disorders that are frequently considered in criticallyill children that are admitted to the intensive care unit with recurrent life-threatening infections. In this chapter, we have briefly reviewed the primary and secondary immunodeficiencies that an intensivist is likely to encounter in the PICU. The immunodeficiencies have been categorized as primary defects of antibody production, combined Immunodeficiencies, primary defects of cellular immunity, complement deficiencies and phagocytic Disorders.