People with PI often become their own greatest advocates. Many of our members learn about their suspected or diagnosed illnesses and then work to educate their healthcare providers as they seek diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor may refer you to a clinical immunologist for specialist testing and diagnosis.
The diagnosis process varies, but common steps and diagnostic testing may include the following:
- Evaluation of symptoms (see symptoms and warning signs of Primary Immunodeficiency)
- Medical history and physical exam
- Complete blood count and blood smear
- Lymphocyte proliferation assays and flow cytometry
- Measurement of serum immunoglobulin (Ig) levels
- Evaluation of antibody responses to vaccine antigens (tetanus, diphtheria, pneumococcus)
- Neutrophil function assays and stimulation assays for cytokine responses
View the Jeffrey Modell Foundation’s 4 Stages of Testing for Primary Immunodeficiency PDF.