Study of Severe or Unusual Viral Infections and Immune System Defects in Patients Without Known Immune Problems

What this Trial Is About

Viral infections often cause common illnesses like colds, sore throats, chicken pox, and the flu. While most people recover quickly, some individuals experience severe, persistent, or hard-to-treat viral infections possibly due to immune system defects. Researchers are studying these severe viral infections in patients without known immunodeficiency to understand immune and genetic factors that may contribute to their condition. Participants include children and adults with diagnosed severe or unusual viral infections caused by viruses such as herpesviruses, papillomaviruses, adenoviruses, polyomaviruses, or influenza. Relatives of affected individuals may also join to help study hereditary immune defects. Participants receive the best available treatment for their infections at the NIH Clinical Center, where blood samples and other tests like skin biopsies are done to evaluate their immune systems over time. During the study, participants undergo evaluations as outpatients or inpatients at the Clinical Center. Researchers monitor infection responses to treatment and collect blood and tissue samples intermittently. Follow-up visits occur during and after illness to track infection progress and immune system changes. The main goal is to identify immune or genetic defects that lead to severe viral infections, with participant involvement lasting up to 10 years.

The Natural History of Severe Viral Infections and Characterization of Immune Defects in Patients Without Known Immunocompromise