Immunology and Radiotherapy

Immunodeficiency

The condition of immunodeficiency, often referred to as immunocompromisation, is characterised by a reduced or missing immune system's capacity to combat infectious illnesses and cancer. The majority of cases are acquired as a result of immune system-affecting external factors in the patient. Examples of these extrinsic factors include environmental elements like diet and HIV infection. It's also possible that genetic disorders/defects like SCID cause immunocompromisation. Compared to congenital illnesses, acquired disorders are more widespread. The lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, and bone marrow make up the immune system.

Primary immunodeficiency diseases:
1. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
2. Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)
3. Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID)

Secondary immunodeficiency diseases:
1. HIV
2. Chemotherapy,
3. Severe burns or malnutrition