IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE AGENT Meaning and
Definition
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An immunosuppressive agent refers to a substance, drug, or treatment that is designed to suppress or regulate the immune system's response. It is commonly used in medical settings to reduce or prevent an exaggerated immune response, such as that seen in autoimmune disorders or transplant rejection.
The immune system plays a vital role in protecting the body against harmful agents, including viruses, bacteria, and cancer cells. However, in certain circumstances, the immune system can become overactive, leading to various health complications. This is where immunosuppressive agents prove beneficial.
These agents act by suppressing the immune system's activity, therefore reducing inflammation and preventing the immune system from attacking healthy tissues. As a result, they are widely used after organ transplantation to prevent the body from rejecting the transplanted organ. They are also employed in the management of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and psoriasis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.
Immunosuppressive agents are available in different forms, including oral medications, intravenous injections, and topical creams. Examples of commonly used immunosuppressive agents include corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, antimetabolites, monoclonal antibodies, and immunomodulators.
Although immunosuppressive agents are generally effective in managing immune-related disorders and preventing transplant rejection, their use carries potential risks. By suppressing the immune system, these agents increase the susceptibility to infections, including bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Close monitoring of patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy is essential to minimize complications and ensure their safety.
Common Misspellings for IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE AGENT
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Etymology of IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE AGENT
The word "immunosuppressive" is derived from two parts: "immuno-" and "suppressive".
1. "Immun(o)-": This prefix comes from the Latin word "immunis", meaning "free" or "exempt from". It is related to the concept of being protected or free from something, especially diseases.
2. "-Suppressive": This suffix is derived from the Latin word "supprimere", which means "to press down" or "to suppress". This term is commonly used to indicate the action of inhibiting or reducing the effect or activity of something.
"Agent" refers to a substance or factor that produces a particular effect. It is derived from the Latin word "agens", meaning "acting" or "doing".
Therefore, "immunosuppressive agent" refers to a substance or compound that acts by suppressing or inhibiting the immune system.
