What term describes the diminished ability of the immune system to respond appropriately?

The term "immunodeficiency" refers to the diminished ability of the immune system to respond appropriately to pathogens or foreign substances. This can occur due to various factors, including genetic conditions, infections (such as HIV/AIDS), malnutrition, or the effects of certain medications, such as immunosuppressants used after organ transplants. When the immune response is weakened, the body becomes more susceptible to infections and diseases, as it is less capable of identifying and eliminating harmful invaders.

Immunocompetence describes a fully functional immune system that can effectively defend against pathogens, while autoimmunity involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own tissues. Hyperimmunity denotes an excessive immune response, often leading to allergic reactions or autoimmune diseases. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurately identifying various immune system conditions.