Immunodeficiency

Definition

Immunodeficiency is a condition where the immune system's ability to fight infectious diseases and cancer is compromised or entirely absent. It can be congenital or acquired due to various factors such as infections, malnutrition, or medical treatments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Primary immunodeficiencies are usually genetic and present at birth, while secondary immunodeficiencies develop later in life due to external factors.
2. HIV/AIDS is a well-known example of an acquired immunodeficiency that severely weakens the immune system.
3. Patients with immunodeficiency are more susceptible to frequent and severe infections that can be difficult to treat.
4. Common tests for diagnosing immunodeficiency include blood tests to measure levels of immune cells and antibodies.
5. Immunodeficiency can be managed through therapies such as immunoglobulin replacement, antibiotics, and sometimes bone marrow transplants.

Review Questions

• What is the difference between primary and secondary immunodeficiency?
• How does HIV/AIDS affect the immune system?
• Name two diagnostic methods used for identifying immunodeficiency.

Related terms

Autoimmune Disease: A condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues.

Antibodies: Proteins produced by B cells that help neutralize pathogens like bacteria and viruses.

Bone Marrow Transplant: A medical procedure used to replace damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy bone marrow stem cells.