immunbrist

Immunbrist is the Swedish term for immune deficiency, a condition where the immune system's ability to fight infections is reduced. This weaker defense can lead to recurrent, severe, or unusual infections and may affect multiple organ systems.

Immunbrist can be categorized as primary (inborn, congenital) or secondary (acquired). Primary forms arise from inherited defects in immune cells or antibodies. Secondary forms are due to external factors such as infections (eg, HIV), malnutrition, cancer, chemotherapy, immune-suppressing drugs, or chronic diseases.

Common signs include frequent infections, infections that take longer to clear, infections with unusual organisms, poor growth in children, and sometimes autoimmune or inflammatory problems. The pattern depends on which part of the immune system is affected.

Diagnosis relies on clinical history and laboratory testing. Tests may include measurements of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM), responses to vaccines, lymphocyte subtypes, complement levels, and HIV testing. Genetic testing may be used for suspected primary immunodeficiencies.

Management focuses on preventing and treating infections and addressing the underlying cause. This can involve antibiotics, vaccination with appropriate vaccines, immunoglobulin replacement therapy for antibody deficiencies, and, in some cases, targeted therapies or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Prognosis varies with the type and severity of immunbrist. Some forms are well controlled with treatment, while others require lifelong follow-up and support. Early diagnosis and comprehensive care improve outcomes. Immunbrist is relatively rare in the general population, with prevalence differing by subtype.