Diagnosing SCID
University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital Provides Assistance in Diagnosing Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID)
The Division of Pediatric Allergy/Immunology at UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital features esteemed board-certified and fellowship trained pediatric immunology specialists who are available to assist in diagnosing severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and other immune deficiency disorders in patients. SCID is a rare condition that is considered to be the most serious of the primary immune disorders that affect infants within the first six months of life.
SCID and Life-Threatening Infections
Infants with SCID have an unusual number of bacterial, viral, fungal or protozoal infections that are much more serious, more life threatening and less responsive to treatment than would normally be expected, including:
- Bacteremia/sepsis
- Meningitis
- Pneumonia
- Sinusitis
- Frequent ear infections (otitis media)
- Persistent thrush
Additionally, persistent diarrhea is common in these young patients, and may lead to severe weight loss and malnutrition. Skin problems may persist, including chronic bacterial and fungal infections.
For Referrals
UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital welcomes patient referrals to any of our convenient community locations. To refer a patient or consult with a Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology faculty member, please call 216-UH4-PEDS (216-844-7337).