Evaluation and management of B and T cell abnormalities

Congenital deficiencies that involve the lymphocyte system are complex and represent abnormalities in genetic control or gestational development. Only the more common prototypes of these diseases will be discussed. Diseases of the B cell system presented include X-linked agammaglobulinemia, selective IgA deficiency, IgG subclass deficiency, and common variable immunodeficiency. T cell defects discussed are Di-George syndrome and severe combined immunodeficiency. Also mentioned briefly are HIV infection and the increasing problem of AIDS. Diagnostic evaluation and general principles of treatment of these diseases are considered.