immunocompetence
Meaning of immunocompetence: Immunocompetence is the capacity of the immune system to recognize and respond effectively to infections and other foreign substances.
Definition of immunocompetence
Immunocompetence describes the ability of the immune system to mount a normal, effective response to infections, foreign substances, and abnormal cells. A person who is immunocompetent has the components of the immune system, including white blood cells and antibody production, functioning at a level generally capable of defending against common pathogens.
Immunocompetence can be affected by many factors, including certain diseases, some medications, malnutrition, and other underlying medical conditions, any of which can shift a person from an immunocompetent state toward reduced immune function. Assessing immunocompetence can involve laboratory testing of immune cell counts and function, along with a history of infections and response to prior vaccinations.
Immunocompetence stands in contrast to immunocompromise, a state in which immune function is reduced and the risk of infection is correspondingly increased.
Used in a sentence
The evaluation confirmed immunocompetence prior to starting the planned treatment regimen.
Good to know
Immunocompetence is not simply present or absent but exists along a range, since immune function can be partially reduced by illness, medication, or other factors without a person being fully immunocompromised.
Word origin
Where “immunocompetence” comes from
Formed from immuno-, from Latin immunis, meaning "exempt" or "free from," and competence, from Latin competentia, meaning "sufficiency" or "being properly qualified."