Immunocompromised Host Infections

Question 1

define a immunocompromised host?

Answer 1

this exists on a spectrum

• there have an underlying disease
• certain co-morbities (DM, RF, LD) predispose pts to infection
• those on immunosuppressive therapy (chemo, immunomodulators or AI drugs)

Question 2

difference in sxs/presentation between ICompromised and ICompetent? (4)

Answer 2

(1) their infection risk changes over time and based on treatment
(2) inflammatory responses are impaired, which means diminished sxs and delayed diagnosis
(3) presentation is often atypical
(4) individual risk factors are important