Secondary Immunodeficiency Diagnosis Rates Have Lagged
Experts urge earlier recognition to prevent lasting damage from these under-diagnosed immune conditions.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Allergies
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Should medical systems prioritize increased awareness and earlier diagnostic testing for chronic immune conditions?
At the 2026 European Society for Immunodeficiencies conference, experts highlighted a critical need for earlier diagnosis of Secondary Immunodeficiencies. These conditions are increasingly common due to the rising use of biologic and immunosuppressive therapies.
Why it matters
Delayed identification of secondary immune issues frequently leads to avoidable hospitalizations and recurring infections. Improving detection is essential, as many patients currently face permanent health consequences before they are finally diagnosed.
Data from the MAPPA survey, which expanded from Italy to include Portugal, Spain, and Turkey, reveals that 50% of participants were diagnosed after age 18. Among these respondents, 28% had already sustained permanent damage at the time of their diagnosis.
The players
Kedrion Biopharma
A global pharmaceutical company focused on the development and distribution of plasma-derived products and therapies for immunodeficiency disorders.
ESID 2026
The annual international conference hosted by the European Society for Immunodeficiencies to share clinical research and diagnostic standards.
The details
Secondary Immunodeficiencies occur when a patient's immune system is compromised by external factors, most notably the use of modern immunosuppressive or biologic treatments. Because these conditions are often overlooked, patients experience repeated, difficult-to-treat infections. Kedrion Biopharma is currently working on research collaborations to better map these immune gaps and improve diagnostic timelines for at-risk patients.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: Experts presented findings at the ESID 2026 conference in Maastricht.
Health Landscape
The findings from the MAPPA survey underscore a critical shift in modern clinical practice as biologic and immunosuppressive treatments become standard care. This development marks a transition toward prioritizing secondary immune monitoring alongside existing primary immunodeficiency protocols.
If you are currently undergoing treatment with immunosuppressive or biologic therapies, be aware that recurrent or unexplained infections may warrant a conversation with your doctor about secondary immune markers. Early investigation is key to preventing long-term damage.
The takeaway
Secondary immunodeficiencies are an emerging challenge often linked to life-saving medical treatments. If you or a loved one are on immunosuppressive therapies, track the frequency of new or lingering infections and discuss these patterns with a specialist to ensure timely immune evaluation.
Further reading
For more on managing immune health and identifying symptoms, explore our Allergies section.
Live Poll
Should medical systems prioritize increased awareness and earlier diagnostic testing for chronic immune conditions?
