What to know about CVID, a rare Immune disorder that’s often misdiagnosed

Self quotes Stanley A. Schwartz in a story on what to know about Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID). People with CVID have an impaired immune system that makes them more likely to develop recurrent bacterial and viral infections—especially in the lungs, sinuses, ears, and gastrointestinal (GI) tract, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. If your doctor does suspect you have CVID, they’ll likely order a blood test or refer you to an immunologist. “It does take a bit of awareness and understanding to detect,” Schwartz says. However, Schwartz remains optimistic, noting “generally speaking, once people are under replacement therapy, they should live healthy lives.”