Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)


Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is a serious primary immunodeficiency. In SCID, the body is unable to fight off infections that would usually be able to be controlled if the body’s immune system was working well. The immune system is made up of different parts that work together to keep the body from getting sick. In SCID, certain parts of the immune system do not work properly. This puts the individual affected with SCID at risk of getting many infections and serious infections that are hard to treat; this can lead to life-threatening illness at an early age. Early identification and prompt, successful treatment can provide children with SCID the opportunity to live longer and healthier lives.

To learn more about severe combined immunodeficiency, visit Baby's First Test: Severe combined immunodeficiency and The National Patient Organization for Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases: Severe Combined Immune Deficiency. A listing of contact information for Minnesota immunology medical specialty providers/clinics serving children affected with or undergoing evaluation for conditions that can be detected through Minnesota Newborn Screening is available upon request.