Disorders of phagocytic cells

Abstract

Patients with defects in phagocytic function are predisposed to intracellular microorganisms and typically have early dissemination of the infection. Recognition of the underlying disorder and aggressive antimicrobial therapy has been beneficial for the patients. Improved understanding of the pathophysiology of the disorder has also affected patient management by allowing specific, targeted immunomodulatory interventions. The cases in this chapter are not common but have had a significant impact on our understanding of the role of phagocytic cells in host defense. Conversely, understanding the role of the neutrophils and macrophages in infection has benefited not just the patients described in this chapter but also other patients with similar disease process.