Clinical immunology

Clinical immunology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the study of the immune system in relation to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. It is closely related to immunobiology, which is the study of the immune system from a biological perspective.

Overview

Clinical immunology is concerned with the functioning of the immune system in health and disease, and the malfunctions that can occur leading to immune disorders. These disorders can be classified into several categories, including autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiency disorders, and hypersensitivity reactions.

Autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells. Examples of autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and type 1 diabetes.

Immunodeficiency disorders

Immunodeficiency disorders occur when the immune system is not able to fight off infections and diseases as effectively as it should. This can be due to a variety of factors, including genetic disorders, infections, or treatments for other conditions. Examples of immunodeficiency disorders include HIV/AIDS and primary immunodeficiency.

Hypersensitivity reactions

Hypersensitivity reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to a harmless substance, such as pollen or pet dander. This overreaction can result in symptoms ranging from mild, such as sneezing and itching, to severe, such as anaphylaxis. Examples of hypersensitivity reactions include allergies and asthma.

Diagnosis and treatment

The diagnosis and treatment of immune disorders often involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Treatment can include medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.

See also

• Immunology
• Autoimmune diseases
• Immunodeficiency disorders
• Hypersensitivity reactions