[Diagnosis and treatment of primary antibody deficiency syndromes]

Primary antibody deficiencies (PAD) make up more than half of primary immunodeficiencies. PAD is characterized by low levels of one or more immunoglobulin (Ig) classes or impaired vaccine response. Recurrent infections are the predominant presenting symptoms, but autoimmune disorders are also frequent. Onset of symptoms is often after the age of six. Screening for PAD with measurement of the levels of serum IgG, IgM, and IgA is simple and can be done in general practice. Replacement therapy with Ig is the cornerstone in treatment of PAD and reduces the frequency of infections and mortality.