Signs & Symptoms of Chronic Granulomatous Disease

Chronic granulomatous disease occurs when the phagocytes, immune system cells, are not functioning properly. This inherited disorder results in ongoing infection. More than 50 percent of patients with this disease are males because inheritance of an X-linked recessive trait, says Merck. Inheritance is autosomal recessive in other patients. About one million people have been diagnosed with this disease. The signs and symptoms of chronic granulomatous disease are serious and can be life-threatening.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

• The lymph nodes that are in the neck can become swollen early in life and either become swollen frequently or remain swollen, says Medline Plus. In some cases, the lymph nodes may have abscesses form on them in which surgical drainage is required to treat them.

Skin Infections

• A variety of skin infections occur frequently as a sign of chronic granulomatous disease. These infections are considered difficult to cure. These skin infections are abscesses, perianal abscesses, chronic inner nose infections, impetiginized eczema, furuncles and impetigo.

Other Infections

• Infections are a common sign of this disease. Bone and joint infections are often seen. Pneumonia is another infection that can occur and it is difficult to cure and it occurs frequently, according to Medline Plus. Persistent diarrhea also occurs, either alone or along with an infection.