What is the Difference Between Primary and Secondary Immunodeficiency Disorders?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Primary and secondary immunodeficiency disorders are two distinct types of immune system deficiencies. Here are the main differences between them:

  • Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders (PIDs) are a heterogeneous group of inborn errors of immunity, predetermined at birth but may evolve with age, leading to a variable clinical and laboratory presentation. These disorders are characterized by recurring infections and an increased frequency of autoimmune disorders and hematologic disorders. PIDs are caused by inherited gene mutations. Examples of primary immunodeficiency disorders include common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), and chronic granulomatous disease (CGD).
  • Secondary Immunodeficiency Disorders (SIDs) are acquired declines of immune cell counts and/or function. These disorders are more common than primary immunodeficiencies and can be caused by various factors, including chronic conditions (like diabetes or cancer), drugs, radiation therapy, long-term hospitalization, and insufficient nutrition. Examples of secondary immunodeficiency disorders include AIDS, cancers of the immune system (like leukemia), immune-complex diseases (like viral hepatitis), and multiple myeloma (cancer of the plasma cells, which produce antibodies).

Both primary and secondary immunodeficiency disorders can be associated with infections, immune dysregulation, autoimmune disorders, lymphoproliferation, and malignancy. However, distinguishing between the two types of immunodeficiencies is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Comparative Table: Primary vs Secondary Immunodeficiency Disorders

Here is a table summarizing the differences between primary and secondary immunodeficiency disorders:

Feature Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders Secondary Immunodeficiency Disorders
Definition Inborn errors of immunity, genetically determined, and usually hereditary. Acquired declines of immune cell counts and/or function, often due to environmental factors.
Onset Usually present at birth and may become evident during infancy or childhood. Generally develop later in life.
Examples More than 100 primary immunodeficiency disorders, such as common variable immune deficiency (CVID) and X-linked agammaglobulinemia. Secondary immunodeficiency can result from HIV infection, immunosuppressive treatments (e.g., cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiation therapy), prolonged serious illness, and exposure to certain toxic substances.
Prevalence Relatively rare, with about 60% of people affected being male. More common than primary immunodeficiency disorders.
Diagnosis Genetic evaluation and functional assays may be needed for confirmation. Treatment focuses on the underlying disorder, such as HIV infection or cancer.

Primary immunodeficiency disorders are less common and mainly inherited, while secondary immunodeficiency disorders are more common and often result from environmental factors.