CGD: Clayton's Story

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• published: 03 Mar 2010
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Clayton Cowan, of Fulton, MD, was born with a rare disease called chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), which occurs only in one out of a million people. The condition is caused by a glitch in the immune system that makes it very vulnerable to germs and results in recurrent chronic infections, some of which can be life threatening. Clayton was not diagnosed until he was 2 and had a severe, life-threatening lung infection. He was taken to Hopkins Childrens where the brilliant Dr. Howard Lederman had a diagnosis for us within 48 hours, says his mother, Marty. Clayton stayed at Hopkins Childrens for three weeks while doctors figured out the appropriate course of treatment. The Cowans now must be vigilant and watch for any signs of infection. If Clayton has a fever for more than two days, he needs to undergo blood tests and X-rays to rule out serious infection. The greatest threats to Claytons health are recurrent bacterial and fungal infections. He takes antibiotics and antifungal medication every day to prevent them. He also receives interferon-gamma injections three times a week to boost his immune defense, but this is definitely something he doesnt look forward to. Clayton's parents try to keep a healthy perspective about his exposure to bacteria and other germs.