D3.398 - Primary Care Physicians’ Perspectives on Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases

Primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDs), also referred to as inborn errors of immunity (IEI), are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders associated with recurrent infections, immune dysregulation, and increased morbidity and mortality when diagnosis is delayed. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a critical role in early recognition; however, data on PID-related knowledge and preparedness in primary care remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, clinical approaches, and preparedness of PCPs regarding PIDs across Türkiye.

This nationwide, cross-sectional study included 385 PCPs working in Family Health Centers in Türkiye. Participants completed a structured online questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, educational background, clinical experience, self-assessed PID knowledge, and performance on 15 PID-related multiple-choice questions based on international guidelines. Total knowledge scores (range: 0–15) were calculated. Group comparisons and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with higher knowledge levels.

The mean total knowledge score was 9.09 ± 2.46, indicating a moderate overall knowledge level. Family physician specialists demonstrated significantly higher total scores than family physician residents and general practitioners (p < 0.001) and were independently associated with higher knowledge in multivariable analysis (OR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.26–3.23). Regular participation in general medical educational activities was associated with significantly higher total scores (p < 0.001). PCPs who reported requesting immunoglobulin testing or referring patients with recurrent lower respiratory tract infections achieved significantly higher total scores (p = 0.001). Self-assessed moderate or good PID knowledge was consistently associated with superior objective performance (p < 0.001).

PID-related knowledge and preparedness among PCPs in Türkiye remain suboptimal. Structured postgraduate training, regular educational engagement, and targeted awareness programs are essential to strengthen early recognition and management of PIDs in primary care.