Investigation for immunodeficiency in patients with recurrent ENT infections

Patients suffering with primary immunodeficiency frequently present to ear, nose, and throat (ENT) clinics, but the diagnosis is rarely made at this t ime. Early diagnosis of these patients would help to prevent morbidity and even mortality. Normal results from a simple panel of blood tests will excl ude the commonest immune deficiencies. An abnormal result from these tests, or a strong suspicion despite normal initial testing, should prompt discus sion with an immunologist.