title: Genetic immunodeficiency disorders.
abstract: In this review, selected immunodeficiency disorders are presented in which the cutaneous signs are distinctive and contribute to the diagnosis of the condition. Among these cutaneous abnormalities are alopecia, cutaneous granulomas, cutaneous infections, atopic-like or seborrheic-like dermatitis, petechiae or purpura, silvery pigmentation, poor wound healing, and telangiectasias. Immunodeficiency should be considered in children with a history of infections that are recurrent, respond poorly to antibiotics, are of increased duration and severity, and/or result from unusual organisms. In addition to their high risk of infection, patients with immunodeficiency disorders have a risk of the development of malignancy that is 10,000 times higher than that of healthy age-matched controls. The underlying molecular basis for most genetic immunodeficiencies is now understood, allowing improved genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, Children's Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60614, USA. apaller@northwestern.edu
authors.forename: Amy S
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Paller
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D017677:Age Distribution; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D015897:Comorbidity; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007153:Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics* / Q000628:therapy; D015994:Incidence; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011379:Prognosis; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D017678:Sex Distribution; D012873:Skin Diseases, Genetic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy