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DiGeorge syndrome (DGS) is a primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) associated with susceptibility to infections due to decreased T cell production and function due to an absent or poorly developed thymus. The thymus is the “school house” where T-cells are educated to fight infection and prevent autoimmunity. DGS is caused by abnormal cell and tissue development during fetal growth. In addition to possible immune system problems, this abnormal development can result in altered facial characteristics, abnormal gland development (parathyroid or thyroid) or heart defects. DGS is a lifelong condition that is typically diagnosed in infancy or early childhood. Children with DGS differ in the organs and tissues affected, as well as in the severity of the disease.
The presentation of DGS varies. At one end of the spectrum is “Complete DGS” that is associated with total absence of the thymus and a severe deficiency in T-cells that requires thymic transplantation for survival. “Partial DGS” is associated with low, but not absent T-cell function and often improves during childhood. Still, approximately one-third of affected adults will have mild recurrent infections.
Most cases result from a deletion of chromosome 22q11.2 (the DGS chromosome region). A small number of cases of DGS have defects in another chromosome, notably 10p13. Infants with CHARGE syndrome (CHD7 gene) and infants of diabetic mothers also may present with DGS.
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7/1/2024
