Beyond Genes: The Social Dimensions of Inborn Errors of Immunity

Abstract

Inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) necessitate a well-funded healthcare system and substantial financial resources for diagnosis and treatment. More than that, these diseases and socioeconomic status are inversely related. Immune deficiencies are better managed by those with higher socioeconomic position, but the emotional and financial tolls of living with a compromised immune system can be devastating for patients and their families, causing them to struggle financially for years to come. For a long time, the patient and people close to her are impacted by these conditions. Conversely, the national healthcare system and patients' socioeconomic situation determine the likelihood of early diagnosis and successful treatment. The development of the immune system throughout infancy is crucial. Fetal development is regulated by maternal nutrition, psychological stress, the mother's mental health, and supporting social networks. The immune system develops from conception and matures during neonatal and early childhood. Effective IEI management and therapy require genetic and social factors to interact. Geneticists, immunologists, healthcare providers, and politicians must collaborate to address IEIs. Insufficient resources for complete newborn screening and genetic testing for all patients make treating the increased incidence of autosomal recessive and genetic diseases in MENA problematic. Primary immunodeficiency treatments including stem cell transplantation and gene therapy are limited in Latin America and Africa. Parental comprehension, awareness, and attitudes of PID genetic testing depend on service accessibility, familial history, and individual circumstances. Patients resist genetic therapy due to financial constraints, notably the high cost of genetic testing. HSCT may treat nonmalignant lymphohematopoietic diseases, myeloid and lymphoid malignancies, immunological deficits, genetic disorders, and inborn metabolic problems. Improving PID outcomes requires correcting these discrepancies. This review aims to underscore the critical need for heightened awareness and improved diagnostic methods for IEIs by analyzing the interplay between genetic factors and societal influences.