immune dysregulation
Abnormal immune system control leading to inappropriate responses such as autoimmunity or excessive inflammation in pediatric patients.
Full Definition
Immune dysregulation refers to the loss of normal immune system homeostasis, resulting in inappropriate immune responses that may manifest as autoimmunity, autoinflammation, lymphoproliferation, or malignancy. In pediatric immunology, immune dysregulation often accompanies primary immunodeficiencies, creating complex clinical pictures where patients may simultaneously have increased infection susceptibility and autoimmune manifestations. Common examples include autoimmune cytopenias, inflammatory bowel disease, and autoimmune endocrinopathies. Recognition of immune dysregulation is important for treatment planning, as it may require immunosuppressive therapy even in the setting of immunodeficiency.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate as 'immune-dysregulation' when used as a compound modifier.
In Context
- "The patient exhibited immune dysregulation with both recurrent infections and autoimmune thrombocytopenia." — Complex case presentation
- "Immune dysregulation required careful balance of immunosuppressive and antimicrobial therapies." — Treatment planning note