Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID) Clinical Trials

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a primary immunodeficiency disorder characterized by markedly reduced serum immunoglobulin levels (IgG <300 mg/dL, with low IgA and/or IgM) combined with impaired specific antibody responses to vaccines and pathogens. The underlying defect involves B cell differentiation and/or inadequate T cell help for B cells, with significant genetic heterogeneity accounting for variable presentations across affected individuals. Pathophysiologically, defects in genes regulating B cell development (TNFRSF13B, PIK3CD, CD19, ICOS, LRBA, and others) impair the ability to generate antibodies effectively.

The most common symptoms of Common Variable Immunodeficiency include Recurrent bacterial infections of respiratory tract, Recurrent gastrointestinal infections and diarrhea, Sinusitis and otitis media, Bronchiectasis development, Autoimmune manifestations, among others. Common Variable Immunodeficiency affects approximately 1 in 25,000 to 50,000 people. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may vary between individuals.

Trial Friend lists all active clinical trials for Common Variable Immunodeficiency from ClinicalTrials.gov, with eligibility criteria translated into plain English. Patients can filter by trial phase and recruitment status, search by location, and use the Match Me tool to score trials against their profile. Immunoglobulin replacement therapy remains the cornerstone of CVID management, with newer subcutaneous formulations (given weekly or monthly) improving convenience and quality of life compared to intravenous formulations. Clinical trials are investigating immunomodulatory agents targeting B cell development pathways, T cell help mechanisms, and novel complement-modulating agents.

Yes. As of October 14, 2026, 1 FDA-approved medicine has a current label that names Common Variable Immunodeficiency: Immune globulin (immune globulin (human)). Corticosteroids and immune globulins count once each.

Common Variable Immunodeficiency is caused by variants in any of many genes, most often TNFRSF13B, NFKB1, NFKB2, LRBA, CD19 and ICOS. A genetic cause is identified in only about 10% of cases (TNFRSF13B most often); the remaining 90% are sporadic with no single causative gene.

It follows autosomal dominant or recessive depending on gene inheritance. The condition affects approximately 1 in 25,000 to 50,000 people. A multigene panel identifies the cause in most families.

Yes. Common Variable Immunodeficiency can be caused by variants in many different genes (TNFRSF13B, NFKB1, NFKB2, LRBA, CD19 and ICOS are among the most common), so testing is usually a multigene panel or exome sequencing rather than one gene at a time. A genetic cause is identified in only about 10% of cases (TNFRSF13B most often); the remaining 90% are sporadic with no single causative gene.

It follows autosomal dominant or recessive depending on gene inheritance.

Knowing the exact gene matters: it decides which trials a patient qualifies for and which relatives should be tested. The labs currently offering the test are listed in the Genetic Testing section of this page, pulled live from the NIH Genetic Testing Registry. A genetic counselor can help interpret the result and decide which relatives should be tested.

Eligibility for Common Variable Immunodeficiency clinical trials depends on factors like age, diagnosis, treatment history, and overall health. Each trial sets its own inclusion and exclusion criteria. Trial Friend translates these requirements from medical language into plain English so patients can review them more easily. The Match Me tool can score your profile against active trials to help identify studies that may be a fit.

Participating in a Common Variable Immunodeficiency clinical trial typically involves scheduled visits, medical tests, and close monitoring by a research team. Depending on the study phase, you may receive an investigational treatment, a placebo, or the current standard of care. Trials may last from a few weeks to several years. Study participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.