Abstract: Immunodeficiency is defined as a defect of the immune system due to the absence, decrease or functional alteration of one of its components. It is classified as primary or secondary immunodeficiency. Primary immunodeficiencies are usually genetic disorders due to a defect in embryonic development, an enzyme defect, or of unknown cause. Secondary immunodeficiencies develop due to impairment of the existing evolved immune system as a consequence of various pathological conditions including malignancies, metabolic diseases, malnutrition, and drugs. Primary antibody immunodeficiency comprises 50–70% of all primary immunodeficiencies.
Publication Year: 2009
Publication Date: 2009-01-01
Language: en
Type: book-chapter
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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