immuunivajeiset

Immuunivajeiset, also known as immunodeficiencies, are conditions where the body's immune system is weakened and unable to fight off infections effectively. This can make individuals more susceptible to frequent, severe, or unusual infections. Immuunivajeiset can be inherited, meaning they are present from birth, or they can be acquired later in life due to other factors.

There are two main categories of immuunivajeiset: primary and secondary. Primary immunodeficiencies are genetic disorders that affect the development or function of the immune system. There are over 400 different types of primary immunodeficiencies, affecting various parts of the immune system. Examples include severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), and X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA).

Secondary immunodeficiencies are caused by external factors that weaken the immune system. These can include certain medications, such as chemotherapy or immunosuppressants used after organ transplantation, as well as chronic illnesses like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and malnutrition. Certain cancers can also impair immune function.

Symptoms of immuunivajeiset vary depending on the specific condition and its severity. Common signs include recurrent infections, infections that are slow to heal, and infections caused by organisms that typically don't cause illness in healthy individuals. Diagnosis often involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and specific blood tests to evaluate immune cell function. Treatment aims to prevent infections, manage existing infections, and, in some cases, replace missing immune components or improve immune system function.