Diagnostics for Frequently Ill Children in Germany

Frequent illnesses in children may indicate immune defects, allergies, chronic infections, or anatomical features. German pediatricians conduct comprehensive examinations to find the cause and create a treatment plan.

When is a Child Considered Frequently Ill

A child is considered frequently ill if:

• under 1 year: more than 4 ARVIs per year;
• 1-3 years: more than 6 ARVIs;
• 4-5 years: more than 5 ARVIs;
• over 5 years: more than 4 ARVIs;
• or: frequent complications (otitis, bronchitis, pneumonia).

Causes of Frequent Illnesses

• Immune defects — congenital or acquired immunodeficiency;
• Allergies — rhinitis, asthma, food allergies;
• Chronic infections — CMV, EBV, herpes, chlamydia;
• ENT pathology — enlarged adenoids, chronic tonsillitis;
• Digestive disorders — dysbiosis, helminths;
• Anemia — iron, vitamin deficiency;
• Social factors — stress, lack of sleep.

Examination Program

1. Pediatrician consultation — medical history, physical examination;
2. Laboratory diagnostics — blood count, biochemistry, inflammation markers;
3. Immune status — immunoglobulins, lymphocyte subpopulations;
4. Allergy panel — specific IgE;
5. Infection screening — EBV, CMV, herpes, mycoplasma;
6. ENT examination — endoscopy, audiometry;
7. Abdominal ultrasound — spleen, lymph nodes;
8. Final consultation — diagnosis and treatment plan.

Immunological Diagnostics

• Immunoglobulins A, G, M, E;
• Lymphocyte subpopulations (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD16, CD19);
• Phagocytic activity;
• Complement system;
• Interferon status;
• Genetic tests for immunodeficiencies.

Allergy Testing

• Prick tests — skin tests with allergens;
• IgE panels — inhalant, food allergens;
• Component diagnostics — molecular allergens;
• Provocation tests — under medical supervision;
• Lung function — if asthma is suspected.

Chronic Infections

In Germany, frequently ill children are screened for:

• Epstein-Barr virus (EBV);
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV);
• Herpes simplex virus;
• Mycoplasma and chlamydia;
• Helicobacter pylori;
• Worms and parasites.

Advantages of Diagnostics in Germany

• Child-friendly environment — specialized children's clinics;
• Painless examinations — modern methods;
• Experienced pediatricians — immunologists, allergists;
• Comprehensive approach — multidisciplinary team;
• Fast results — 1-2 days;
• Individual treatment plan — with follow-up.

Examination Costs