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Primary immunodeficiency disorders: survey of pediatricians in Kuwait

Waleed Al-Herz1, Mohammad E Zainal, Mohammad Salama

  • 1Al-Sabah Hospital, 64888, Shuwaikh B Zip code 70459, Kuwait. wemh@hotmail.com

Journal of Clinical Immunology
|March 21, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Pediatricians in Kuwait show a significant knowledge gap regarding primary immunodeficiency disorders (PID), delaying crucial early diagnosis and interventions. Improving PID awareness among pediatricians is essential to reduce patient morbidity and mortality.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Early diagnosis of primary immunodeficiency disorders (PID) is vital for timely, life-saving interventions.
  • Delayed diagnosis of PID frequently leads to significant patient morbidity and mortality.
  • Pediatrician knowledge and practice regarding PID in Kuwait were assessed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the current knowledge and practices of pediatricians in Kuwait concerning primary immunodeficiency disorders (PID).

Main Methods:

  • A 66-item self-administered questionnaire was used to assess PID knowledge and practice.
  • The survey was distributed to 244 pediatricians across six governmental hospitals in Kuwait.
  • Participant knowledge was evaluated across clinical presentation, associated diseases, and laboratory investigations.

Main Results:

  • The overall mean score for PID knowledge and practice was 59.6%, indicating a deficiency.
  • Only 26% of pediatricians correctly answered at least two-thirds of the knowledge-based questions.
  • Scores were lowest in the laboratory investigations section (51%) and associated diseases/syndromes (58%).

Conclusions:

  • A universal deficiency in both knowledge and practice regarding PID exists among Kuwaiti pediatricians.
  • Enhancing pediatrician awareness of PID is critical for enabling early diagnosis and treatment.
  • Improved awareness can lead to better health outcomes and reduced morbidity and mortality in children with PID.
Abstract

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