Primary immunodeficiency disorders: survey of pediatricians in Kuwait.

INTRODUCTION

Early diagnosis of primary immunodeficiency disorders (PID) is critical so life saving interventions can be implemented to avoid significant morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, they are frequently misdiagnosed, which results into significant delay in diagnosis. This study aimed to determine the knowledge and practice of pediatricians in Kuwait about PID.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A 66-item self-administered questionnaire was designed and distributed to the pediatricians working at all six governmental hospitals to measure their knowledge and practice about PID. A total of 244 pediatricians (78.4%; 143 males and 101 females) participated in the study. The mean age of participants was 40 years, and the mean number of years working in pediatrics was 13 years. The mean overall score was 59.6%, whereas the mean score in clinical presentation section was 63%, in associated diseases and syndromes section 58%, and in laboratory investigations section 51%. Only 26% of the participants answered correctly at least 2/3 of the questions (67% of the questions).

CONCLUSION

This survey demonstrates that there is universal deficiency in both the knowledge and practice of pediatricians in the field of PID. Implementation of strategies to improve the awareness of pediatricians about PID is critical so early therapeutic interventions can be done to improve the health and prevent morbidity and mortality.