Immunodeficiency Disorders

Immune Deficiency graphicImmunodeficiency disordersoccur when the body's immune response is reduced or absent. 

See also: Autoimmune disorders

Alternative Names:

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:


The immune system helps protect the body from harmful substances called antigens . Examples of antigens include bacteria, viruses, toxins , cancercells, and foreign blood or tissues from another person or species.

When the immune system detects an antigen, it responds by producing antibodiesthat destroy the harmful substances. The immune system response also involves a process called phagocytosis. During this process, certain white blood cells swallow and destroy bacteria and other foreign substances.

Immune system disorders occur when the immune system does not fight tumors or harmful substances as it should. The immune response may be over active or under active.


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