The Immune System
The immune system is essentially the body’s defense mechanism against outside, invasive forces such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites. This system is comprised of special organs and cells with the main purpose of fighting off and eliminating certain, unwanted attacks from microscopic substances. When a body’s immune system is impaired for some reason, the person is termed “immunocompromised” and runs a higher risk of developing life-threatening infections or diseases.
Diseases that Comprehend the Immune System
There are certain illnesses that either harm one’s immune system or that are indicative of a person with a malfunctioning immune system. These include the following:
- Allergies – this condition is an unnecessary immune response to harmless substances, indicating a hypersensitive system
- Asthma – a heightened allergic reaction
- Anaphylaxis – a severe allergic reaction
- Obesity and alcoholism – these typically contribute to immunocompromised states
- Autoimmune disorders – failure of the immune system to properly recognize inherent parts of the body, and attacking them
- AIDS – a condition that degrades and breaks down the human immune system
It is extremely important for a physician to properly diagnose an immunocompromised patient as soon as possible so that he or she may take the right steps toward protection against dangerous infections and illnesses.
Contact Us
If you would like to learn more about the immune system, certain diseases that can compromise it, and the problems that may arise through misdiagnosis, contact the Philadelphia medical malpractice lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today at 215-238-1130.