Common variable immunodeficiency in adults: current diagnostic protocol and laboratory measures

Abstract

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is one of the most common symptomatic primary immune defects in adults. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of CVID is often delayed because of its variable presentations and manifestations. Sincere efforts from experts in the field of primary immunodeficiency disorders all over the world have made us wiser regarding the clinical features, associated complications and long-term outcome of the disease. However, a systematic compilation of diagnostic protocols and laboratory measures is desirable. The present review highlights in brief the immunological and molecular defects characterizing adult CVID along with a comprehensive discussion on currently followed laboratory criteria and methods used to identify these cases. The article may benefit the clinicians, immunologists, infectious disease specialists, pulmonary medicine specialists, gastroenterologists, dermatologists and other physicians who are involved in the team management of the patients with CVID.