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Allergies
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The body's immune system keeps us healthy by fighting infections and other threats to our well-being. Unfortunately, when the system overreacts to something that is not actually dangerous, it can lead to allergies.
When an allergen comes into contact with your body, IgE antibodies are produced that bind strongly to mast cell cells (basophils). This causes them to release chemicals such as histamine, which causes allergic symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and a runny nose.
Infections
The immune system is the group of cells, tissues and organs in the human body that fights germs that cause infections. Some of these defenses occur rapidly to contain an infecting agent; others take longer but are designed specifically for each type of infection.
Immune system cell types are found in all organs of the body and work tirelessly to fight germs. But sometimes their actions can fail, leading to infection.
Cancer
Some cancers can alter the immune system's response to healthy cells in a way that makes you more vulnerable to infection. This is known as paraneoplastic syndromes, which can present with various symptoms.
One theory suggests that cancer cells alter their DNA to appear normal to the immune system, allowing them to evade detection and grow without being destroyed by normal immune reactions.
Immunodeficiency
When your immune system is not functioning optimally, you may be diagnosed with an immunodeficiency. To receive the proper treatment for your symptoms, it is essential to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
Many immunodeficiency disorders are inherited, caused by genetic mutations in the DNA (genetic code) responsible for producing immune system cells. On the other hand, some are acquired, meaning they were caused by diseases or environmental factors such as HIV infection or organ removal and replacement.
