Severe combined immunodeficiency syndrome (SCID) is a rare immunologic disease with only five known genetic mutations. 

Children diagnosed with SCID are unable to produce T-lymphocytes, B-lymphocytes, and often NK cells which are essential to the body’s immune function. 

Children with SCID are often unable to fight many of the common childhood illnesses such as colds, flu, and chicken pox. Risk for chronic illness is high.  

There are five potential treatments for children with SCID, which can often be both time and energy-consuming. Coupled with the fact that these children must be extremely cautious in typical environment, there is an increased risk for developmental delay.  

The primary goal of physical therapy and occupational therapy for these children is to assist the child in developing typical age-appropriate skills through typical movement patterns, environmental exploration, by encouraging independence, and by working closely with caregivers, the medical team, and other treating therapists. 

The actual environment in which therapy is conducted must be as sterile and free from germs as possible, and it is often the medical specialists that will recommend which is most appropriate.

Children with SCID are seen in both inpatient and outpatient settings here at Duke.    

Physical Therapy Treatment

• Gross motor skills
• Strength and endurance

Occupational Therapy Treatment

• Oral motor and feeding skills
• Fine and visual motor skills