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Infections in patients with inherited defects in phagocytic function
Timothy Andrews1, Kathleen E Sullivan
1Division of Allergy and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
Clinical Microbiology Reviews
|October 15, 2003
Summary
Defects in phagocytic cell function increase susceptibility to intracellular infections. Understanding these disorders improves patient management through targeted therapies and enhances knowledge of host defense mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Phagocytic cells, including neutrophils and macrophages, are crucial for host defense against intracellular microorganisms.
- Defects in phagocytic function lead to increased susceptibility to infections and early dissemination.
- Understanding these disorders is vital for managing patients and advancing knowledge of immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of phagocytic cell defects on host defense.
- To highlight the benefits of early recognition and aggressive antimicrobial therapy.
- To discuss the role of immunomodulatory interventions in patient management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of phagocytic cell function disorders.
- Analysis of patient outcomes with specific antimicrobial and immunomodulatory treatments.
- Synthesis of current understanding of neutrophil and macrophage roles in infection.
Main Results:
- Patients with phagocytic defects are prone to severe, disseminated infections.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment significantly improve patient outcomes.
- Insights from these rare disorders enhance understanding of broader immune processes.
Conclusions:
- Defects in phagocytic function underscore the critical role of these cells in combating intracellular pathogens.
- Targeted therapies, informed by pathophysiology, are essential for effective patient management.
- Research into phagocytic cell disorders benefits a wider range of patients with infectious diseases.