Otolaryngologic manifestations of immunodeficiency

Otolaryngologists are frequently consulted to manage infectious and noninfectious complications of immune deficiency. Although defects of host defense and recurrent or severe infections are the most obvious manifestations of immune deficiency, patients are often at increased risk for autoimmune and malignant disease as well. Knowledge of primary and acquired immune deficiencies will facilitate appropriate identification, treatment, and referral of patients with these defects. When immunodeficiency is known or suspected, it is particularly important to have a high index of suspicion for unusual or severe manifestations of infection, to have a low threshold for obtaining imaging to aid in diagnosis, and to treat infections for longer periods of time with higher doses of antibiotic. Surgery may be required for definitive treatment of infections that do not respond to medical therapy and for management of complications of infectious disease.