immunosupressioonis

Immunosuppressioonis refers to a condition where the body's immune system is weakened, making it less able to fight off infections and diseases. This can occur for various reasons. One common cause is the use of immunosuppressant medications, which are often prescribed to prevent organ transplant rejection or to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. These drugs work by suppressing the activity of immune cells, thereby reducing the body's ability to attack foreign or self-tissues.

Another cause of immunosuppressioonis is certain medical conditions. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), is a well-known example where the virus directly attacks and destroys key immune cells, leading to severe immunosuppression. Other conditions like certain cancers, malnutrition, or advanced age can also compromise immune function. Furthermore, some genetic disorders can result in primary immunodeficiencies, meaning the immune system is underdeveloped or dysfunctional from birth.

Individuals experiencing immunosuppressioonis are at a significantly higher risk of developing opportunistic infections, which are infections caused by pathogens that typically do not cause illness in people with healthy immune systems. These can include fungal infections, certain viral infections, and bacterial infections. Managing immunosuppressioonis involves careful monitoring, preventative measures against infections, and often, a delicate balance of medication to manage the underlying cause while minimizing infection risk.