Recurrent infections are a common medical concern in patients who suffer from repeated episodes of infections, either at the same site or in different parts of the body, within a short period of time. These infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites, and often indicate a compromised immune system or some other underlying condition that needs medical attention.
Common causes of recurrent infections
- Immunodeficiencies: One of the most common causes of recurrent infections is a weakened immune system, which can be congenital or acquired. People with primary immunodeficiencies, such as antibody deficiency, are more prone to bacterial infections, while secondary immunodeficiencies, such as those caused by HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments or immunosuppressive drugs, also increase the risk.
- Chronic diseases: Chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can predispose people to recurrent infections. Diabetes, for example, affects circulation and the immune system, making it easier to develop skin, urinary and respiratory infections.
- Anatomical abnormalities: Certain malformations or structural problems can cause infections to recur. This is common in urinary tract infections in people with kidney or bladder malformations, or in chronic respiratory infections in people with sinus disorders.
- Environmental and behavioural factors: Frequent exposure to pathogens in the environment (schools, day care or work environments) and certain lifestyle habits, such as smoking or lack of proper hygiene, can contribute to recurrent infections.
Types of recurrent infections
- Respiratory infections: These are common in people with immunodeficiency or lung disease. Examples include recurrent bronchitis, pneumonia and sinusitis, often caused by bacteria or viruses.
- Urinary tract infections: Especially common in women, recurrent urinary tract infections may be the result of an anatomical abnormality or improper hygiene. In men, they are often associated with prostate problems.
- Skin infections: People who have skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis, or who have chronic wounds, are prone to recurrent bacterial infections such as impetigo or cellulitis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of recurrent infections requires a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, as well as additional tests that may include blood tests, imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans) and microbiological cultures of the affected areas. In some cases, specific tests may be performed to identify underlying immune disorders.
Treatment
- Antimicrobial treatment: Depending on the type of infection, antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics may be used. It is crucial to follow medical advice on dosage and duration of treatment to avoid antimicrobial resistance and to achieve complete eradication of the pathogen.
- Preventive treatment: In people with severe recurrent infections, prophylactic low-spectrum antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent future infections. For patients with immune deficiencies, intravenous immunoglobulin is a treatment option to increase blood antibody levels.
- Lifestyle improvements: It is important to adopt healthy lifestyle habits such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise, proper personal hygiene and avoidance of risk factors such as smoking or exposure to pathogens.
- Vaccination: Vaccinations are an important tool to prevent recurrent infections. Patients with immunodeficiency or chronic diseases should keep up to date with their vaccination schedules, including influenza, pneumococcal and other vaccines.
- Autovaccine: Autovaccine, used for recurrent infections, is made from the patient’s own pathogens. It involves isolating micro-organisms from repeated infections to create a personalised vaccine. It aims to stimulate the immune system and reduce the frequency or severity of future recurrent bacterial infections.
Tips for patients
- Monitoring and control: Keeping a record of recurrent infections, their frequency and severity, can help the doctor identify patterns and tailor treatment.
- See a specialist: People with frequent infections should see a specialist in infectious diseases or immunology for further evaluation and possible long-term treatment.
- Take preventive measures: Frequent hand washing, avoiding contact with sick people and improving cleanliness in the home are key actions to prevent future infections.
Bibliography
- Bonilla, F. A., & Geha, R. S. (2003). **Primary immunodeficiency diseases.** Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 111(2 Suppl), S571-S581.
- Simon, A. K., Hollander, G. A., & McMichael, A. (2015). **Evolution of the immune system in humans from infancy to old age.** Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 282(1821), 20143085.
- Cohen, J., & Powderly, W. G. (2004). **Infectious diseases.** Elsevier Health Sciences.
- Zar, H. J., & Ferkol, T. W. (2014). **The global burden of respiratory disease-impact on child health.** Pediatric Pulmonology, 49(5), 430-434.
