Immuno Depression

Posted by Pozziepinoy on 9:36 AM
I am always discussing about how to improve the immune system, that is increasing the CD4 count. This time, I want to discuss in detail some causes on how the immune system can be compromised. The studies that will be presented are from individuals who don’t have HIV. So for us immuno compromised, we should all pay attention and read on.

1) Low CD4 counts in the intensive care unit

This means that severe cases of infections can cause a decrease in CD4 counts.

2) Low CD4 counts in Various Human Infections

    a) Pneumonia, pyelonephritis, abscesses, infected wounds, cellulitis, and sepsis
    b) Low CD4 counts in malaria
    c) Low CD4 counts in mononucleosis

Mononucleosis, commonly called 'mono', is a common viral illness, especially in young people of college age, and can last for several months. It is caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV) or Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and usually results in prolongued cold and flu symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. 

   d) Low CD4 counts in sepsis
   e) Low CD4 counts in pulmonary tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a relatively common infection in people diagnosed HIV-positive, especially when compared to the general population. It is also relatively common in other people who are immunosuppressed, such as alcoholics, the homeless, intravenous drug users (IVDUs), and people who suffer from malnutrition.

   f) Nearly all viruses interfere with lymphocyte function

The viruses that infect human lymphocytes, are: Hapatitis B virus, Group C adenoviruses, Herpes simplex viruses, Cytomegalovirus, measles, mumps, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Vesicular stomatitis virus, Inflenza A, Parainfluenza, Rubella, Poliovirus, Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, and Human T-cell leukemia viruses I and II. This also includes HIV and other retroviruses.
3) Low CD4 counts caused by injections of foreign proteins

    a) CD4 irregularities in hemophilia

Hemphiliacs were one of the original HIV risk groups. As mentioned above, hemophiliacs who are HIV-negative have been found to have lowered CD4 counts as well as lowered CD4/CD8 ratios, and it appears that this effect is caused by injections of factor VIII.

    b) CD4 irregularities caused by injected drugs   
    c) CD4 Irregularities caused by in utero exposure to opiates

4)Low CD4 counts caused by injuries and burns
5)Low CD4 counts in normal human pregnancy
6) Reduced CD4 counts from overexercising
7) Low CD4 counts in malnutrition
8) Daily variation of CD4 counts
9) Changes in CD4 counts and lymphocyte function due to psychological stress and social isolation

Now we know that these are some of the causes for the immune system depression, even in normal individuals, then we, the immunocompromised ones should pay attention to them now.




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