A new defect of neutrophil chemotaxis and random motility in a child with recurrent bacterial infections and hyperimmunoglobulinemia E.

A new defect of chemotaxis and random motility of polymorphonuclear leukocytes is described in a patient with severe recurrent bacterial infections since early childhood. This defect seems to be intrinsic to the cells. The patient's plasma did not contain an inhibitor of chemotaxis. Addition of plasma to the patient's cells restored their chemotactic activity. High concentrations of immunoglobulin E were found in the patient's plasma. Phagocytosis, bacterial killing, and reduction of nitroblue tetrazolium salt were normal. Histological examination of lung tissue revealed a pattern similar to that observed in chronic granulomatous disease.