Prevention of infections during primary immunodeficiency

Abstract

Because infectious diseases are a major source of morbidity and mortality in the majority of patients with primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs), the application of a prophylactic regimen is often necessary. However, because of the variety of PIDs and pathogens involved, and because evidence is scarce, practices are heterogeneous. To homogenize practices among centers, the French National Reference Center for PIDs aimed at elaborating recommendations for anti-infectious prophylaxis for the most common PIDs. We performed a literature review of infectious complications and prophylactic regimens associated with the most frequent PIDs. Then, a working group including different specialists systematically debated about chemoprophylaxis, immunotherapy, immunization, and recommendations for patients. Grading of prophylaxis was done using strength of recommendations (decreasing from A to D) and evidence level (decreasing from I to III). These might help infectious diseases specialists in the management of PIDs and improving the outcome of patients with PIDs.

Keywords: immunizations; immunoglobulins; primary immunodeficiency; prophylaxis.