immunocompromised host
Patient with impaired immune system function at increased risk for opportunistic infections.
Full Definition
A patient whose immune system is weakened by underlying disease, medical treatment, or congenital disorders, resulting in increased susceptibility to infections that typically do not affect immunocompetent individuals. In pediatrics, immunocompromised states include primary immunodeficiencies, malignancy, organ transplantation, and immunosuppressive therapy. These patients require specialized infectious disease management including prophylaxis, modified vaccination schedules, and aggressive evaluation of fever. Medical editors must understand that infection patterns, causative organisms, and treatment approaches differ significantly from those in healthy children.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier; 'host' is preferred over 'patient' in infectious disease terminology.
In Context
- "Fever evaluation in an immunocompromised host requires broader diagnostic workup and empirical antimicrobial coverage." — Pediatric oncology protocol
- "Live vaccines are contraindicated in most immunocompromised hosts due to risk of vaccine-related disease." — Immunization guideline