Ónæmisgalli

Ónæmisgalli refers to a deficiency or malfunction in the immune system. This can manifest in various ways, ranging from a reduced ability to fight off common infections to a complete inability to mount an immune response. Immune system deficiencies can be congenital, meaning they are present from birth (primary immunodeficiency), or acquired later in life (secondary immunodeficiency).

Primary immunodeficiencies are often caused by genetic mutations that affect the development or function of immune cells. There are over 400 known primary immunodeficiency disorders, affecting different parts of the immune system, including B cells, T cells, phagocytes, and complement proteins. Examples include severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), and X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA). Individuals with primary immunodeficiencies are prone to recurrent, severe, and sometimes life-threatening infections.

Secondary immunodeficiencies are more common and result from external factors that damage or suppress the immune system. These can include medical treatments like chemotherapy or immunosuppressant drugs used after organ transplantation, chronic diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, or certain types of cancer. The severity of secondary immunodeficiencies depends on the underlying cause and its impact on immune function. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to assess immune cell counts and function, and sometimes genetic testing. Treatment strategies vary depending on the specific deficiency and can include immunoglobulin replacement therapy, antibiotics, antiviral medications, and in some cases, stem cell transplantation.