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Abstract

BACKGROUND: Primary immune deficiency (PID) comprises more than 330 diseases, in which alterations in                         the immune system cause greater predisposition towards infections, autoimmune phenomena, allergies, and neoplasms. The early diagnosis of PID prevents the development of complications and improves  the quality of life in children with PID. The lack of medical knowledge is identified in many countries as the probable cause for late diagnosis and under diagnosis of PID. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study conducted in two platforms, a paper and a Google form questionnaire during the period from Jan 2020 to August 2020. We studied knowledge, attitude, and practice of physicians regarding PID in children. The knowledge questionnaire included 10 clues to PID diseases,  5 questions for each of the diagnosis, syndromes associated with PID as well as vaccination of children with PID. Another 5 questions for each of attitudes and practice of physicians toward PID were also surveyed. RESULTS: Out of 203 participants, there were 11 (5.4%) trainee doctors, 68 (33.5%) senior residents, 59 (29.1%) general practitioners, and 65 (32%) specialists. Only 29 (14.3%) of participants believe that all 10 clues for PID are true. While 67 (37.9%) of participants knew 5 clues and less for PID. The knowledge about the clues of PID was  significantly higher among trainee doctors, senior residents, and specialist doctors in comparison to general practitioners. Also, trainee doctors and senior residents knew more clues in comparison to specialist doctors. Both specialists and senior residents have an attitude indicator (AI) mean of 3 ± 1 while trainees and general practitioners have AI mean of 2±1, and again general practitioners have a lower attitude for PID. In multiple linear regressions, the effect of independent variables knowledge indicator (KI) and attitude indicator (AI) were significantly affecting the practice. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: PID is still underestimated by physicians regarding warning signs and diagnosis. General practitioners lack a lot of knowledge for PID and that affects their attitude and practice. We recommend increase awareness among PHCCs physicians especially GP doctors for PID warning signs and diagnostic tips.  

DOI

10.52573/ipmj.2023.179274

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