National Primary Immunodeficiency Awareness Month

National Primary Immunodeficiency Awareness Month

April is National Primary Immunodeficiency Awareness Month. In order to raise awareness, please consider our zebra pin in recognition of Primary Immunodeficiency. With your help, we can increase the understanding of Primary Immunodeficiency diseases. Most importantly, early recognition can lead to earlier diagnosis and better care for those living with PI.

Primary Immunodeficiency Awareness Month is a US national event. The Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) (www.primaryimmune.org) supports this event.

Primary Immunodeficiencies are Genetic Defects

Primary Immunodeficiencies are genetic defects of the immune system. It occurs when part of an individual’s immune system is compromised and not functioning properly. As a result, there are about 200 different forms of this disease. PI is not contagious. Both adults and children can be affected by this condition.

In addition, patients with Primary Immunodeficiencies are susceptible to a wide range of infections. As a result, the severity of an infection can vary from moderate to severe. Further, infections which are more complicated in nature tend to be longer lasting and reoccurring. Reoccurring infections can be disruptive to a persons life. They can also cause difficulties such as maintaining a consistent work or school schedule and subsequent financial and social hardship.

Infections and Primary Immunodeficiencies

Throughout their lives, people with PIDDs are more susceptible to infections, endure recurrent health problems, and may develop serious long-term illness. Signs and symptoms of a PIDD can include: delayed growth and development, blood disorders, digestive problems, and autoimmune disorders. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent infections that can cause long-term problems.

Infections associated with Primary Immunodeficiencies can affect many areas of the body including the:

• lungs
• sinuses
• urinary tract
• intestinal tracts
• throat
• ears
• brain
• spinal cord

Individuals with Primary Immunodeficiencies endure recurrent health problems and can develop serious and debilitating illnesses. Early diagnosis is KEY!

Think Zebras and Wear the Zebra Pin During National Primary Immunodeficiency Awareness Month!

The Primary Immunodeficiency Community identifies with the medical notion of looking for ‘zebras’ when diagnosing a patient. According to IDF, this is based on the opposite of medical school teaching practices. For example, many doctors are taught to focus on the likeliest possibilities when making a diagnosis.

Doctors are often taught the saying “when you hear hoof beats think horses not zebras.” In the case of rarer conditions, sometimes doctors need to look for a zebra, the less obvious choice. Patients with Primary Immunodeficiencies are the zebras of the medical world and that’s why IDF says Think Zebra!