Immunosupression

Immunosuppression refers to the reduction of the activation or efficacy of the immune system. Certain medications and diseases can cause immunosuppression. This condition can also be a side effect of treatments for diseases like cancer.

Causes

Immunosuppression can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Medications: Certain drugs, such as corticosteroids and chemotherapy drugs, can suppress the immune system.
• Diseases: Conditions like HIV/AIDS and certain types of cancer can weaken the immune system.
• Medical treatments: Treatments like organ transplants require the use of immunosuppressive drugs to prevent the body from rejecting the new organ.

Effects

The main effect of immunosuppression is an increased susceptibility to infections. This is because the immune system is less able to fight off bacteria, viruses, and other harmful invaders. In severe cases, even normally harmless bacteria can cause serious infections.

Treatment

Treatment for immunosuppression typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include changing medications, treating the underlying disease, or adjusting the dosage of immunosuppressive drugs.

See also

• Immune system
• Infection
• HIV/AIDS
• Cancer
• Organ transplant

Immunosupression Resources
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