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Impaired immune system
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Healthwise
The immune system is the body's natural defense system that helps fight infections. An impaired immune system does not work properly and cannot effectively protect a person against infection.
Some conditions and medicines weaken or impair the immune system. These may include:
- Alcohol or drug abuse or withdrawal.
- Certain diseases or conditions. Diabetes, cancer, HIV/AIDS, or conditions in which the body mistakenly identifies its own tissues as harmful (autoimmune disorders) are some examples.
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
- Some medicines, such as corticosteroids or those taken to suppress the immune system after an organ transplant.
- Surgery to remove the spleen (splenectomy).
Last Updated:
April 10, 2009- Author:
- Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
- Medical Review:
- Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Peter Shalit, MD, PhD - Internal Medicine
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