Summary
Defective immune function, inherited like SCID or acquired like AIDS, causing frequent infections.
In depth
Primary: genetic (SCID, X-linked agammaglobulinaemia). Secondary: HIV, malnutrition, chemotherapy or immunosuppressive drugs. Signs: severe, recurrent or unusual infections.
Diagnosis uses blood counts, immunoglobulin levels and functional tests. Treatment includes immunoglobulin replacement, antibiotics prophylaxis, stem cell transplants and gene therapy.
Key idea: opportunistic infections are a hallmark of T cell deficiency.
Frequently asked questions
What is Immunodeficiency?
Defective immune function, inherited like SCID or acquired like AIDS, causing frequent infections.
Which area of biology covers Immunodeficiency, and how advanced is it?
Immunodeficiency is one of the 52 topics in Immunology & Disease. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include HIV and AIDS, Bacterial vs Viral Infections, Active and Passive Immunity.
Can you give an example of Immunodeficiency?
Gene therapy has cured some forms of SCID.
What should I learn before Immunodeficiency?
Work through the Beginner topics in Immunology & Disease first, such as Immune System, Viruses, Innate Immunity, then return to Immunodeficiency. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Immunodeficiency?
The closest topics to Immunodeficiency are HIV and AIDS, Bacterial vs Viral Infections, Active and Passive Immunity, Cytokines. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Immunodeficiency?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Immunodeficiency. To practise the whole of Immunology & Disease, use the Immunology & Disease quiz.
How is Immunodeficiency different from HIV and AIDS?
Immunodeficiency: Defective immune function, inherited like SCID or acquired like AIDS, causing frequent infections. HIV and AIDS: HIV infects helper T cells; untreated infection depletes them, leaving the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Immunodeficiency step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with HIV and AIDS and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Immunology & Disease quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.