Primary immune deficiency disorders that mimic AIDS

Primary immunodeficiency diseases, collectively as common as leukemia and lymphoma, result from genetic defects in the genes that govern immune functions. The dysfunction in immunity may involve the B-cell compartment, the T-cell compartment, or both. Because the most frequent manifestations of these diseases mimic some manifestations of AIDS, the diagnosis of HIV disease is often considered before that of any other immunodeficiency disease, delaying potentially life-saving therapies. A careful patient history and family history along with measurements of several key immune system components can prevent such misdiagnoses.