clinical features
Last reviewed 01/2018
Defective lymphocytic function predisposes to increased susceptibility to infection which is usually detected by 3 to 6 months of age. Death within 2 years is common if untreated by marrow transplantation; transplant survivors are at increased risk of a variety of malignancies.
Both sexes are affected. Failure to thrive may be a non-specific presentation.
Common features include:
- watery diarrhoea - associated with Salmonella and enteropathic E.coli
- pulmonary infections - associated with Pseudomonas and Pneumocystis carnii
- candidiasis - often around the mouth
Viral infections such as measles or chickenpox may be lethal.