WHIMS

WHIM syndrome is an acronym for a rare immunodeficiency disorder with each letter representing a predominant feature of the condition: (W) = warts; (H) = hypogammaglobulinemia; (I) = infections; and (M) = myelokathexis (retention of neutrophils in the bone marrow). Symptoms usually begin in early childhood with recurrent bacterial infections such as respiratory infections and cellulitis. In later childhood, individuals develop widespread warts that often become persistent despite treatments that are normally effective. Warts that involve the genital area may eventually cause cancer. It is caused by mutations in the CXCR4 gene and is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Treatment may include medications that replace antibodies (intravenous immunoglobulin) or increase the number of neutrophils; vaccinations; and prophylactic antibiotics to reduce the risk of infections. Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD), supported by ORDR-NCATS and NHGRI.