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Published on: February 8, 2019
Chronic granulomatous disease
Nida Saleem1, Tahir Aziz Ahmed2, Mukarram Bashir1
1Department of Immunology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Rawalpindi.
Abstract:
Chronic granulomatous disease is a rare inherited disorder characterised by inability of phagocytes to generate reactive oxygen species needed for intracellular killing of phagocytosed microorganisms. We report the case of an 8-month-old male child with recurrent chest infections and perianal abscess that had no response to conventional antibiotic treatment. His two elder brothers died due to similar complaints at the ages of 4 and 5 months. Four elder sisters were healthy and alive. This history indicated that the patient might have X-linked chronic granulomatous disease. A definite absence of superoxide activity in the patient's granulocytes detected by dihydrorhodamine test and nitroblue tetrazolium dye reduction test confirmed this diagnosis.
Insights
This case study highlights a rare inherited immune disorder, chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), where phagocytes cannot kill microbes. Diagnosis in an infant was confirmed by absent superoxide activity, indicating X-linked CGD.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare inherited immunodeficiency.
- It impairs phagocyte function, specifically the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) essential for microbial killing.
- This leads to recurrent, severe infections.
Observation:
- An 8-month-old male presented with recurrent chest infections and perianal abscess unresponsive to antibiotics.
- A family history revealed two deceased elder brothers with similar symptoms in infancy.
- Four elder sisters were healthy, suggesting an X-linked inheritance pattern.
Findings:
- Diagnostic tests, including the dihydrorhodamine (DHR) test and nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) dye reduction assay, revealed a complete absence of superoxide activity in the patient's granulocytes.
- This confirmed the diagnosis of chronic granulomatous disease.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and confirmation of CGD are crucial for timely management and genetic counseling.
- This case underscores the importance of considering inherited disorders in infants with recurrent severe infections.
- Understanding the genetic basis of CGD aids in identifying at-risk family members and implementing appropriate preventative strategies.
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