Secondary (acquired) immunodeficiency Flashcards
List the diseases which can lead to Secondary (acquired) immunodeficiency
HIV/AIDS: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection can progressively weaken the immune system, leading to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
Cancer: Certain types of cancer, particularly hematologic malignancies (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma), and cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can suppress the immune system.
Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, and certain types of vasculitis can affect the immune system’s ability to function properly.
Chronic kidney disease: Individuals with severe kidney disease may experience immune system dysfunction due to factors like uremia, malnutrition, and impaired clearance of immune cells and antibodies.
Chronic liver disease: Liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, can lead to immune system dysfunction, primarily due to the impaired production of immune proteins by the liver.
Chronic lung diseases: Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, and cystic fibrosis can affect the respiratory system and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections.
Diabetes mellitus: Poorly controlled diabetes can impair the immune system, making individuals more prone to infections.
Malnutrition: Severe malnutrition, especially protein-energy malnutrition, can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections.
Aging: The natural aging process can lead to immune system changes, known as immunosenescence, resulting in reduced immune response and increased susceptibility to infections.
Infections: Severe or recurrent infections, particularly those affecting the immune system, can lead to prolonged immune dysfunction.
List the medications which can lead to Secondary (acquired) immunodeficiency
Corticosteroids: Prednisone, dexamethasone, and hydrocortisone
Chemotherapy drugs: Chemotherapy is used to treat cancer by targeting rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. However, it can also affect healthy cells, including those involved in the immune response. Chemotherapy drugs can lower the production of white blood cells, impair immune function, and increase susceptibility to infections.
Immunosuppressants: Medications that suppress the immune system are commonly used in organ transplantation to prevent organ rejection and in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Examples of immunosuppressants include cyclosporine, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, and methotrexate.
Biologic therapies: Biologic drugs, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors (e.g., adalimumab, etanercept), interleukin inhibitors (e.g., tocilizumab), and monoclonal antibodies (e.g., rituximab), are used to treat autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease. While they can be effective in managing these conditions, they can also suppress immune function and increase the risk of infections.
Antiretroviral therapy (ART): In the case of HIV infection, antiretroviral therapy is used to suppress the replication of the virus and slow the progression of HIV/AIDS. However, certain antiretroviral medications can have immune-suppressive effects, particularly at high doses or in combination with other immunosuppressive drugs.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy is used to treat cancer by targeting and destroying cancer cells. However, it can also damage healthy cells, including those involved in immune responses, thereby temporarily suppressing the immune system and increasing the risk of infections.
List the symptoms of Secondary (acquired) immunodeficiency
Frequent and recurrent infections: Respiratory infections (e.g., pneumonia, sinusitis, bronchitis), ear infections (otitis media), urinary tract infections, skin infections, and gastrointestinal infections.
Prolonged or persistent infections.
Poor response to treatment.
Failure to thrive.
Delayed wound healing.
Chronic diarrhea or gastrointestinal issues.
Development of opportunistic infections: Examples include fungal infections (such as oral thrush or systemic fungal infections) and infections caused by unusual bacteria.
Allergic conditions: Some children with secondary immunodeficiency may develop an increased incidence of allergies, including allergic rhinitis, asthma, and eczema.
