Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency Type 1: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency Type 1?
A primary care doctor, such as a pediatrician or family doctor, usually notices the warning signs and starts the testing process. An immunologist often leads the treatment plan, and a hematologist may be involved if a transplant is considered. A direct primary care doctor or a concierge doctor can also help, offering longer appointments and easier access for a condition that needs close watching.
What it is
Leukocyte adhesion deficiency type 1 is a rare disease that a person is born with. It affects the white blood cells that fight germs. In this condition, the white blood cells cannot move properly to the site of an infection, so the body cannot fight infections well on its own.
Symptoms
The signs of this condition often show up soon after birth. A common early sign is a delayed separation of the umbilical cord, which usually falls off within the first few weeks of life. Other symptoms include frequent infections of the skin and gums, slow healing wounds, and loose teeth.
Causes and who gets it
This condition is caused by a change in a gene called ITGB2, which stops the body from making a protein that white blood cells need to move into infected tissue. Without it, the white blood cells stay in the bloodstream instead of reaching the germs. The condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning a child must get one changed copy of the gene from each parent.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors often suspect this condition when a baby or young child has repeated serious infections and a delayed umbilical cord separation. A blood test can measure the missing protein on white blood cells, and genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on preventing and treating infections. Doctors may give antibiotics to treat or prevent infections, and some people receive regular infusions of antibodies. A stem cell transplant can fix the underlying problem by replacing the faulty blood forming cells with healthy ones from a donor.
When to see a doctor
Any baby whose umbilical cord has not fallen off after about three to four weeks should be seen by a doctor. If a child with this condition develops a fever, a doctor should be contacted right away.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
When a serious infection appears, they refer the patient to a specialist and coordinate care.
Common questions
Can leukocyte adhesion deficiency type 1 be cured?
A stem cell transplant can fix the underlying blood cell problem for many patients. It carries serious risks and does not work for everyone. Results differ from person to person. Families should discuss the options with a specialist team.
Can adults have this condition?
Most people with the severe form are diagnosed as babies or young children. Milder forms exist. Some people with those forms are not diagnosed until later in life. Repeated gum and skin infections are a common clue.
Should family members get tested?
Because the condition is inherited, siblings of an affected child may carry the changed gene. Genetic testing can show who carries it. A genetic counselor, a professional trained to explain inherited conditions, can help families understand the results.
Can people with this condition live normal lives?
With good medical care, some people do well, especially those with milder forms. Outcomes vary a lot depending on the severity of the condition and the treatments used. Regular follow up with a medical team is usually needed for life.
Sources
- MedlinePlus Genetics - Leukocyte adhesion deficiency type 1
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center - Leukocyte adhesion deficiency 1
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
