Makrófaghiányos

Makrófaghiányos is a Hungarian term that translates to "macrophage deficiency" in English. It refers to a medical condition where the body's macrophages, a type of white blood cell, are either absent or do not function properly. Macrophages are crucial components of the immune system, responsible for engulfing and digesting cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, cancer cells, and anything else that does not have the type of proteins specific to healthy body cells on its surface.

The absence or malfunction of macrophages can lead to a compromised immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. This deficiency can manifest in various ways, depending on the severity and the specific type of macrophage dysfunction. Symptoms can range from recurrent infections, particularly bacterial ones, to slower wound healing and potentially a higher risk of certain cancers due to the impaired removal of abnormal cells.

The causes of makrófaghiányos can be congenital, meaning they are present from birth, often due to genetic mutations affecting the development or function of these cells. In rarer cases, it can be acquired later in life, potentially due to certain medical treatments or diseases that suppress the immune system. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to assess the number and function of white blood cells, along with genetic testing in suspected congenital cases. Treatment strategies aim to manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of infection, which may include prophylactic antibiotics, vaccinations, and in severe cases, bone marrow transplantation.