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Immunodeficiency
Immunodeficiency means the immune system is weakened and cannot fight infections properly. It can be inherited (primary) or acquired, leading to frequent or unusual infections.
Causes & risk factors
- Inherited (primary) immune system disorders
- Acquired causes: HIV, some cancers, chemotherapy
- Long-term steroids or immune-suppressing medicines
- Severe malnutrition
- Diabetes and other chronic illnesses
Common symptoms
- Frequent or unusually severe infections
- Infections that are slow to clear
- Recurrent fevers
- Weight loss and failure to thrive in children
- Persistent tiredness
Tests & diagnosis
- Full blood count (CBC)
- Immunoglobulin levels
- HIV test
- Specialised immune function tests
Treatment & management
- Treating and preventing infections promptly
- Vaccinations as advised by a specialist
- Immunoglobulin replacement for some conditions
- Treating the underlying cause where possible
- Long-term specialist follow-up
When to see a doctor urgently
- A serious infection with high fever or breathlessness — urgent care
- Repeated infections needing antibiotics several times a year
- Infections that are severe, unusual or slow to clear
- Poor growth in a child with frequent infections
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about immunodeficiency. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
When should frequent infections raise concern?
Very frequent, severe or unusual infections, or those needing repeated antibiotics, may point to an immune problem worth investigating.
Can immunodeficiency be treated?
Many forms can be managed well with infection prevention, vaccines and, for some, immunoglobulin replacement, guided by a specialist.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.