immunocompromesse

Immunocompromise, also known in French as immunocompromesse, describes a state in which the immune system's ability to fight infections is impaired. This reduced immune function increases vulnerability to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, and can also affect responses to vaccines and wound healing.

Causes are broadly categorized as primary (congenital) immunodeficiencies and secondary (acquired) immunodeficiencies. Primary examples include conditions such as severe combined immunodeficiency and agammaglobulinemia. Secondary causes include infections such as HIV; cancers affecting the immune system; treatments that suppress immunity, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, organ transplantation with immunosuppressive drugs (corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, or monoclonal antibodies like rituximab); chronic diseases such as diabetes; malnutrition and aging.

Management focuses on reducing infection risk and prompt treatment of infections when they occur. This includes infection prevention measures, antimicrobial prophylaxis in certain contexts, and vaccination with inactivated vaccines when appropriate. Live vaccines are typically avoided in significantly immunocompromised individuals. For some primary immunodeficiencies or antibody deficiencies, immunoglobulin replacement therapy may be used. Ongoing monitoring and coordination among clinicians help tailor therapy to minimize infection risk while addressing the underlying condition.

Outlook varies with the cause and degree of immunosuppression. Advances in therapies, vaccination strategies, and infection prevention have improved outcomes for many patients, but immunocompromise remains associated with higher rates of morbidity compared with immunocompetent individuals.