Published in:
Open Access
01-05-2011 | Review
Educational paper
The expanding clinical and immunological spectrum of severe combined immunodeficiency
Authors:
Mirjam van der Burg, Andy R. Gennery
Published in:
European Journal of Pediatrics
|
Issue 5/2011
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Abstract
Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is one of the most severe forms of primary immunodeficiency characterized by absence of functional T lymphocytes. It is a paediatric emergency, which is life-threatening when recognized too late. The clinical presentation varies from the classical form of SCID through atypical SCID to Omenn syndrome. In addition, there is a considerable immunological variation, which can hamper the diagnosis. In this educational review, we describe the immunopathological background, clinical presentations and diagnostic process of SCID, as well as the therapeutic possibilities.